Why we’re a one concept studio
#THEoneconceptMETHOD
We use strategic design methods to craft and develop something incredibly distinctive (and incredibly impressive) to share.
We’re a one-concept studio, which means we channel our energy into a single design that best fits the brief. With 2-3 rounds of refinements as part of our design packages, we’ll make sure it’s just right too. Nine times out of ten we don’t even end up using the revisions. We go into this more below…
I’ve been using the one concept method for a couple of years now and can confidently say it has positively simplified our design process. Resulting in happier clients and left me feeling fulfilled in my work.
It all begins with planning. By starting with Creative Direction and Brand Strategy, we start to craft, refine and craft some more until we’ve developed something incredibly distinctive (and incredibly impressive) to share. We channel our energy into a single design that best fits the brief.
Because we base all branding on a solid foundation, also known as strategy, our own research and our chats with you, we channel our energy into one strong design concept. We believe we can provide you with what you’re looking for from the get-go.
FACT
Clients would choose the first concept we had worked on. Every. Single. Time. No matter what order we presented them in. And that’s because the first concept had every detail and every aspect of the creative direction and brand strategy embedded into it.
Industry Expectations
What is the One Concept Method?
The graphic design industry standard is anywhere from 1 to 3 concepts delivered to a client. The client then gets to choose the option they like the most. With the one-concept method, the designer leads the client in the right direction by only delivering one considered and in-depth concept. We do things differently here. The BobbyMac Way gives you more real-life examples and mockups, more templates and print and digital assets to work with, and ridiculously extensive brand guidelines (check one out here) so DIY is actually possible for those that need it and just more bang for your buck really!
I used the standard 3 concepts for years before making the switch. It worked for the most part, but an ever-evolving handful of niggles kept popping up. Not worth!
Why do we (and our clients) love this method?
From the very first attempt at using the one-concept method, it was love at first try! I knew right away that it was the right choice for my business and our clients. Here are a few reasons why I love this method:
1️⃣ There are not always 3 (OR MORE) DESIGN solutions
Why create 3 watered-down design options when you can create one incredible one? There was always a concept that was the best solution for the client, usually the first one I created, and I’d cross my fingers hoping that’s the one they’d fall in love with so I could develop it further. The other two options always felt forced and not quite right. I soon realised I needed to honour my creative expertise by choosing the option that I knew was best for my clients. This allowed my creative process to flourish and for my client’s businesses to bloom.
A client comes to us to solve a problem. As designers, it's our job to find the best solution for your brand/business. Many times there is only one solution to that problem. By coming up with 3 (or more) possible options and having the client choose their favourite, you are missing the opportunity to provide them with the very best solution. I found myself not utilising my time when I could've been effectively showing them how their new brand can look rather than just trying to come up with other concepts that might fit the brief.
2️⃣ trust US AS the expert
The client comes to us for our professional and qualified expertise. We’re the expert in this field. When we leave the decision-making up to the client, not only does it put pressure on them, more workload too. It also is doing them a disservice by not consulting on the best solution for their brand.
3️⃣ CLARiTY. MAKES FOR AN EASIER (& HEADACHE-FREE) PROCESS FOR OUR CLIENTS.
It’s much like going to a cafe, or restaurant and being bombarded with choices. I don’t know about you but I always feel pressured or overwhelmed. If there’s a think less, feed me option, I’m there! That’s what it can feel like for clients. They like all 3 concepts or elements of each concept but can only pick one? What you end up with is a mish-mash of logo designs that look nothing like what was intended. By presenting the client with the perfect solution to their design problem, we give them clarity around their brand identity and the brand’s direction moving forward. Life is busy. We are all for a collaborative process but we also get that your time is precious.
4️⃣ Fewer revisions. SAVES US BOTH TIME & THE CLIENT money
More choice creates more possibilities and less certainty. “Just one more small change?” That's every designer's least favourite line. Sorry not sorry 😅 Cos it’s never small. Good things take time. The one concept method has hands down cut our revisions on projects to almost zero.
We aim for every client to feel comfortable and enjoy the creative process with us. If you have questions or comments? Ask them below!
Kindest,
