About Us

Creative Process

  • 1. Client Meeting
    An initial meeting is key at the beginning of each new project. It allows both parties to introduce themselves and discuss the upcoming project, thus creating a more comfortable working relationship for the future.
  • 2. Create Schedule
    A successful concept comes from having vision and confidence. However, by creating a firm schedule the venture can run smoothly. Many of our clients have several simultaneous print deadlines during the year. With tight design and print deadlines it is imperative each schedule is adhered to.
  • 3. Design Brief
    Having taken key items from the initial client meeting a design brief is created containing the aims of the new project. Before any design work is started both parties agree that the design brief represents the correct direction to take. With many large identity projects, we can advise a questionnaire be answered by all relevant personnel involved in the project. This simple exercise helps us understand the direction needed for each project.
  • 4. Select the Team
    Selecting the right team is an important part of the project. As clients vary, so should the team. Once we decide on the best approach we can then pick the most suitable team within the studio, as well as the preferred external suppliers i.e. illustrator, freelancer, photographer, producers, printer, etc. By collaborating with others we believe that fresh and distinctive communication can evolve.
  • 5. Research/Design/Concept
    The initial stages of a design project involve research, design and creative concepts. We always start with a conversation and our sketchbooks. With every project we display our sketches on the studio wall. It gives everybody a chance to view the work and make comments about it. Once our concepts are refined and developed we then prepare them for presentation.
  • 6. Design Presentation
    With the use of a visual essay we clearly show the thinking behind a concept and – through a variety of sample applications (stationery, posters, website, etc.) a concept can be developed/applied. When working on identity projects many clients request a selection of concepts. We see this as more of a hinderance than a help. Through the use of a visual essay we clearly show our thought process and how we have arrived at our eventual concept.
  • 7. Design Development
    Having presented our initial concept, there will inevitably be design changes and in some circumstances we may have to go back to the design brief. In general with design development we anticipate two rounds of amendments to the design involving the text, colours, imagery and layout.
  • 8. Client Approval
    If the client is happy with the development of the concept, then the project is approved. Nice.
  • 9. Artwork
    On completion of a project the artwork is sent out to our suppliers. From this point we can oversee the printing and production.
  • 10. Ongoing Development
    An ongoing conversation is essential for the development of a long-standing piece of work. When managing a project we ensure that the concept is adaptable, efficient and functional. Of equal importance is the development of the relationship with the client. We have worked with many clients on a long-term basis since our inception and hope to continue with them long into the future. Red&Grey Design continually asses our projects with our clients all the time looking, listening and learning for new ways to improve them. We understand that as the world changes so to must our studio.