Bending Design, Inc. - The Creative Process

August 2007

The Creative Process – Not Just For “Creatives”

We're often asked how we come up with our designs. It's pretty safe to say that we don't simply sit at our computers and wait for inspiration. If there's one thing we know about the creative process — particularly when it comes to the visual arts — you can't force it! This doesn't mean, of course, that it comes organically. You do have to put in the work.

And like with most other kinds of work, it begins with a process. Our particular process typically involves research, brainstorming and sketching. Given our vocation, we are in a near-constant state of searching out original and compelling ways to visually render the messages and ideas we're asked to communicate. From a font choice on a street sign, to a series of children's drawings, to textures and color combinations in everyday things, inspiration can come from anywhere.

But is the creative process only limited to “creatives”? Of course not. Think of the role you play in your business. Ever have a need to “think outside the box”? Come up with a new product design? Discover a creative solution to a problem?

Whatever your role is, you should think of yourself as a thought leader. Because if you're not thinking of creative or new ways of doing things or designing products or solving problems in the role you inhabit, someone else (like a competitor) will. Or even worse — for your customers — no one else will.

Alas, The Creative Process

First thing about the creative process — there are no hard and fast rules. Rather, let's call them influential guidelines. You may want to add some subtle variations here and there — hey, they're your “influential guidelines” after all — but here are some basic steps to get you going:

– the more you know about the “problem” you're trying to solve, the easier it'll be to solve it. Take the issue and break it down into a few questions you need answered, and answer them.
– Anyone can brainstorm. The key is to write down everything and not judge — that's the hard part. We tend to censor our ideas before they even make it out of our head. To truly brainstorm we need to let our minds be free from criticism. One hair-brained idea may lead to the perfect one, which we would have never gotten to otherwise. One other thing — this needn't be a solitary exercise. Invite others as needed.
– Take a couple of the ideas and explore them further. Again, don't force it. Allow yourself enough time (if you have it) to let the ideas gestate. Once the incubation period ends, develop and refine the ideas. Start to visualize, think through and then develop solutions. Will it work? Is it a big enough idea? Again, involve others as needed.
– Take the best idea and put the finishing touches on it. Implement the idea, monitor it, and continue to reshape it as needed. Solutions in any business are rarely final. Continue to use the creative process as needed through each iteration.

Keep in mind that we are all thought leaders in whatever role we have. Your continued pursuit of finding new and better ways of doing things or solving problems is what keeps companies flourishing. Use the creative process to guide you.

As an effective thought leader, it helps to have a process to effectively access, organize and shape your thoughts creatively.

For more information on how Bending Design can help with your upcoming design needs, contact us at 847.304.8640 or via email at info@bendingdesign.com.