How can you keep your design process transparent for clients and stakeholders?

1 Define the scope and goals

Before you start designing, you need to clarify the scope and goals of the project with your clients and stakeholders. What are they expecting from you? What are the main challenges and opportunities? What are the success criteria and metrics? By defining these aspects upfront, you can avoid misunderstandings, scope creep, and unrealistic expectations later on. You can also use this opportunity to explain your design process, methods, and tools, and how they align with the project objectives.

3 Involve them in the ideation and feedback

Another way to keep your design process transparent for clients and stakeholders is to involve them in the ideation and feedback stages. You can invite them to brainstorm sessions, workshops, or co-design activities, where they can contribute their ideas, perspectives, and expertise. You can also ask them for feedback on your sketches, wireframes, mockups, or prototypes, and show them how you incorporate their suggestions or address their concerns. By involving them in the ideation and feedback, you can foster collaboration, creativity, and trust, and ensure that your design solutions meet their needs and expectations.

4 Document and present your work

Throughout your design process, you should document and present your work to your clients and stakeholders, and explain the rationale behind your choices. You can use tools like Figma, InVision, Miro, or Notion to create and share design documents, such as briefs, proposals, reports, or style guides. You can also use tools like Zoom, Loom, or Prezi to present your work online, or in person if possible. When you document and present your work, you should highlight the benefits and value of your design solutions, and how they align with the project scope and goals.

5 Communicate frequently and clearly

Finally, one of the most important ways to keep your design process transparent for clients and stakeholders is to communicate frequently and clearly with them. You should update them on your progress, challenges, and achievements regularly, and use channels that suit their preferences and availability, such as email, phone, chat, or video. You should also be honest, respectful, and professional, and avoid jargon, acronyms, or technical terms that they may not understand. By communicating frequently and clearly, you can build rapport, confidence, and loyalty, and prevent or resolve any issues or conflicts that may arise.