There is a black hole in design projects. It's this realm right between the development of the creative brief and the presentation of those first few design concepts.

Sure, the client knows is that their designer is hard at work – brainstorming, ideating and being as creative as possible in order to deliver the most fantastical design concepts imaginable. Obviously.

But where exactly does the designer go? Do they trek through the mountains of Tibet in order to find inner peace and bolster their creativity? Do they flee to an uncharted island to perfect their focus?

Most project managers and clients probably couldn't say what goes on during this time. And it's problematic because then, when the first rounds of designs are reviewed, designs come out of left field and no one is quite happy with how it all came out.

Goals and expectations were not established, and feelings get hurt.

Mood boards are like a lifeline back to the mainland. They bridge this gap that we all struggle with, whether you're a designer or not. And they run both ways, helping both designers and clients communicate better with one another.

In this week's episode, Liz and I discuss my own process for using mood boards in design projects. I talk about the tools that I use to brainstorm design concepts and build out mood boards. In particular, I share how they help me communicate better with my clients and ensure that we are both on the same page regarding their needs and desires.

Flipping this concept around, Liz also shows how marketers and noncreatives alike can use similar tools to talk to their own designers. 

WHAT DID WE TALK ABOUT?

 

• Why use mood boards?
• How do mood boards help with brainstorming?
• How do they help with presenting and clarifying design concepts?
• How should you set up your mood board?
• How do you create a successful and meaningful mood board?
• Can a mood board bridge the gap between designers and decision-makers?
• How can marketers and other nondesigners use mood boards for their projects?

 

TOOLS MENTIONED:

 

• InVision
• Pinterest
• Creative Market
• Moodboard
• Niice
• Canva

 

RESOURCES:

 

• Noisli (For all of your "rainy-trainy" needs)
• This adorable penguin holiday cookie cutter mailer
• 2016 Annapolis Film Festival artwork – "Captain ACrab" by Citizen Pride
• Foodie photography app
• Liz avoided my efforts to take a photo of her official "Friday shirt," but I promise to force her to add it to the Creator's Block HQ Instagram when I can. 😈

 

GET IN TOUCH AND SPREAD THE CREATOR'S BLOCK LOVE

What did you think of this episode? Is there another topic or question you want us to take on? Or do you just want to say hi? Reach out to us on Twitter at @CreatorsBlockHQ or using the hashtag #creatorsblockparty. You can say hi to me at @shelbstheging and Liz at @naptownpint. You can also join us in the Creator's Block Podcast group on Facebook, where you can ask questions and get inspired.

And don't forget - whether you love us or hate us - we would really appreciate you reviewing our podcast on iTunes! 

…until next week!