An external design team should be a significant asset for any business, allowing the company to benefit from creative minds that can give it a unique edge over its competitors.
But if your external design team isn’t delivering results, it could cost you more than just money.
By understanding what might be going wrong with your current process and taking steps to fix these issues, you can get back on track in no time!
Why a Well-functioning External Design Team Matters
Choosing an external design team is only half the battle. The next big concern is making sure that the team functions appropriately.
A well-functioning external design team can help to accomplish the core design goals efficiently.
It is also straightforward for a team to underperform, failing to deliver.
1. Poor Communication
Lack of clear communication between the team and client can lead to misunderstandings, miscommunication, and a disconnect between creative vision and technical execution.
Encourage both parties to have an open dialogue about the project, expectations, and any changes that may be needed along the way.
2. Unrealistic Expectations
Having an unrealistic expectation or timeline for a project can lead to delays, frustrations, and subpar results.
Before beginning the design process, discuss what is realistic and agree on a plan that works for both the client and the team.
3. Inadequate Resources
A lack of resources, such as personnel or software, can slow down the process and prevent your team from delivering the results you’re looking for.
Ensure adequate resources are available throughout each project stage to ensure quality and timeliness.
4. Unclear Goals and Objectives
It’s essential to define the goals and objectives for any project before it begins.
Without a clear path, your external design team may create designs that don’t meet the criteria or target audience you’re aiming for.
5. Poor Planning & Execution
Having a well-defined plan and process for each project can help your external design team stay organized and on track.
Developing the right processes up front can minimize delays, maximize efficiency, and ensure the final product is in line with expectations.
6. Low Morale & Motivation
Your external design team’s morale can significantly impact their performance.
Showing appreciation for their efforts and providing positive feedback when they do a good job can go a long way in ensuring that your team is motivated and striving to put out the best work possible.
7. Lack of Accountability
Making sure everyone on your external design team is accountable for their work is critical to ensuring that they’re meeting expectations.
Regularly checking in with the team and holding them accountable when needed can help keep everyone on the same page.
8. Limited Accessibility
Limited access to resources and tools can significantly hinder any design team.
Being able to easily access the software, resources, and materials necessary for each task can help ensure that nothing is overlooked or forgotten.
9. Unfavorable Working Conditions
Having a comfortable, productive working environment is essential for any creative team.
Make sure your team has access to the tools and resources they need to do their best work in an environment conducive to creativity.
10. Poor Quality Assurance & Feedback
Ensuring that each design meets quality standards is essential for any successful project.
Establishing a review and feedback system with the team can help ensure that all work meets the desired standards before it’s presented to the client.
11. Inadequate Training & Support
Providing your external design team with the training and support they need to do their job effectively can help ensure that each project is completed on time and to the highest possible quality standards.
12. Unstructured Processes
An established process for each task can help ensure that no steps are forgotten or overlooked.
Developing the right processes upfront can help ensure that your external design team can complete tasks quickly and efficiently.
13. Unwillingness to Adapt
Design projects often require changes or adjustments along the way. Being open to feedback and having the flexibility to adapt to new challenges can help ensure that your design team can stay on track and meet expectations.
Conclusion
By understanding the common issues that might be causing problems for your external design team, you can start taking steps to address them and ensure your project is successful.
With the right resources, processes, and support, you should create a thriving environment where your external design team can do their best work.
