What do you do if your client and graphic designer can't agree on a design concept?

Jamás, en 40 a?os de carrera me topé con algo así... jamás...he trabajado para JWT ,Saatchi&Saatchi, Ogilvy , DMB&B, etc...de allí SIEMPRE salen las ideas absolutamente claras para hacer las fotos de cualquier campa?a. No entiendo sus planteamientos en estos cuestionarios, parecen ejercicios para muchachos de escuela, no para profesionales de la imagen.

Ensure that both parties have a clear understanding of the project objectives, target audience, brand guidelines, and any other relevant parameters. Clarify expectations regarding the design concept, including visual style, messaging, and desired outcomes.

The issue needs an approach like a detective on a mission. Take the time to understand the root cause of the disagreement—is it a difference in taste, expectations, or vision? Analyze the feedback from both sides and identify the specific areas of contention. Remember, clarity is key to finding common ground and moving forward collaboratively.

If the client and graphic designer can't agree on a design concept, aim to facilitate constructive dialogue, seek common ground, and present alternative options until a mutually acceptable solution is reached. It's important to approach the situation calmly and professionally to find a resolution that satisfies both parties.

Put on your empathy hat and step into the shoes of both parties. Listen actively to their concerns, frustrations, and aspirations without judgment. Validate their perspectives and emotions to foster trust and rapport. Empathy is the bridge that connects divergent viewpoints and paves the way for constructive dialogue and resolution.

In my experience, I would recommend to have couple of sessions with the client. In these sessions you discuss everything related to the project in friendly way, you will play Positive listener role and he is the speaker. you start to write all important points, then you summarize them. and confirm what you wrote down ( ideas, concepts, etc..). With that Designer and client will be on same page

Does everything people do (buy, think, want, etc.) is working for me? NO WAY So, I think this is not MY JOB, its theirs. Next time I make sure to delete his number on my phone, so that I do not end up in a similar situation again..

Illuminate the path forward with clarity and transparency. Take the time to explain your design decisions, rationale, and creative process to both the client and the graphic designer. Provide context, examples, and references to illustrate the reasoning behind your choices. Educate them on design principles, industry best practices, and the impact of design decisions on the overall brand strategy. Empower them with knowledge and insights to make informed decisions and bridge the gap between expectations and reality.

Look for the spirit of collaboration and co-creation to find a win-win solution for everyone involved. Explore alternative design concepts, variations, or iterations that address the concerns and preferences of both the client and the graphic designer. Look for common ground and areas of agreement to build consensus and momentum. Remember, compromise is not a sign of weakness—it's a testament to your adaptability and commitment to delivering the best possible outcome for your client's project.

Present multiple design options to the client, each incorporating different elements or variations based on the feedback received. Provide rationale behind each design choice and explain how it addresses the project objectives.

Treat disagreement as an opportunity for growth and improvement. Feedback is fuel for iteration and refinement, rather than as a roadblock. Test different design concepts or solutions with the target audience to gather objective insights and validate your assumptions. Use tools like A/B testing, user surveys, or focus groups to gather feedback and refine your designs based on real-world data and user preferences. Remember, design is a journey of continuous improvement— feedback is a catalyst for innovation and excellence.

If necessary, educate the client about design principles, trends, and best practices that support the proposed design concept. Advocate for design decisions based on professional expertise and industry knowledge.