criteria for evaluating projects

• a humble suggestion

there is the notion: a client can get a job done fast, cheap and well-made — but he can pick only two. what about designers? what are our options to pick from and what makes a project worthwhile? please allow me to share some thoughts with the class.

in his book “how to be a graphic designer without losing your soul,” adrian shaughnessy establishes criteria for good work:

1. is the client happy?
2. is the job profitable?
3. is the project newsworthy?

i concur with his list, but there is one downside: it’s difficult to apply these criteria to a project that is still ongoing. listening to your heart — or gut, whichever gets more of your attention — is important. however, it’s nice to have more solid indicators. so far, these have worked very well for me:

1. time — how much time are you spending on the project?
   or to put it this way: how much time is left for anything else?
2. money — are you getting enough compensation for your work?
   it doesn’t have to be monetary every time. you can get more exposure or work with interesting people for a reduced salary. still, there should be something in it for you.
3. interestingness — are you getting excited about the project or are you performing mundane tasks?
   (technically, you have to rely on your heart/gut for this one.)

of course, it’ll be great to be able to pick two out of three, as well. but at times, one prevailing factor can be enough to justify working late, earning less money or feeling under-challenged and nevertheless be satisfied.

having said that, if you can’t check off any of those, i suggest panic.

Posted by Simon on December 19th 2009 in thoughts

Newer: kd-lounge depot
Older: Otl Aicher: Designer/Model