A Designer’s Journey: More Than Meets the Eye.

Have you ever stopped to think about the incredible journey designers go through to bring their projects to life? While some projects run smoothly, more than not, it’s a rollercoaster ride filled with challenges, unexpected twists, and tight deadlines that rarely leave room for their creative process. Designers are the unsung heroes of the creative world, tirelessly pushing through misdirection, budget cuts, last-minute changes, and unrealistic client feedback. It can be an overwhelming and thankless task at times. But fear not; in this blog, we’ll dive into the captivating design world, sharing insights from fellow professionals and shed light on designers’ remarkable roles.

I recently shared this meme (I know how typical, right) of a female singer and a male drummer performing. A tree suddenly attacked the drummer. I’m not even kidding; a decorative ‘fake’ tree next to his drum set tipped over and fell on him. The man struggled with the fake tree for what felt like hours, but he never stopped performing. The singer, upfront, never noticed the commotion happening behind her. The scene was epic. And it bares resemblance to what designers go through sometimes. 

Here’s what Tyson Rung, a Senior Graphic Designer at IBM, had to say about the post.

Tyson recounts that during a drumming performance, a projector screen suddenly dropped right in front of his drum set while he was playing. Instead of giving up, he told himself, “Just keep drumming.” He uses that same philosophy in his profession. When times get tough, he tells himself, “Just keep designing.” This unwavering perseverance in the face of unexpected obstacles truly defines designers. They adapt, think on their feet, and find creative solutions to keep their projects moving forward.

Stef Marcinkowski, a Graphic Designer, Art Director, Illustrator, Video Editor, Animator, and Storyteller, had this to say.

He emphasizes that design is more than meets the eye. Designers assume various roles beyond simply creating pretty pictures. They become confidants, counselors, coaches, and magicians, using their skills to breathe life into ideas. They morph into soothsayers, psychologists, negotiators, and even cat herders, working tirelessly to align different stakeholders’ visions and expectations. The ability to understand and navigate these diverse roles is what sets designers apart as true masters of their craft.

Finally, Danielle Schumacher, Creative Director at JBS Imports, highlights another aspect of designers that often goes unnoticed: their incredible patience.

Designers are more than just individuals who create aesthetically pleasing visuals. They are problem solvers, strategists, and storytellers. They have the power to transform abstract concepts into tangible experiences that resonate with audiences. They blend artistry with functionality, weaving together form and function to create designs that look good and serve a purpose. That, my friend, is ducking magic!

So, let’s raise a glass to the designers who navigate the treacherous waters of misdirection, budget constraints, and demanding deadlines. They overcome obstacles, adapt to change, and continuously refine their skills to deliver exceptional work. Their ability to balance client feedback, battle looming deadlines, and preserve their sanity is truly commendable.

To all the designers out there, remember that your work has a profound impact on the world. Your designs shape how we interact with products, services, and information. Embrace the challenges, celebrate your multifaceted role, and continue to inspire with your creativity and resilience.

Cheers to the designers who make the world a more beautiful and functional place, one design at a time. And remember, when in doubt, just keep designing.