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| Using Outside Help |
Design
5. Using Outside Help
Good designers help you to move quickly from a problem to providing a possible answer.
Even if there is no quick solution, involving a designer will clarify what else needs to be done.
5.1 Design advisers at, or referred through, your local Business Link can help with most aspects of design.
- An initial visit to assess your needs can be followed by specific support and advice.
- Design advisers can also help you find suitable design consultants.
5.2 The Design Business Association runs a referral service (020 7251 9229).
It will draw up a shortlist of suitable consultants from among its members, based on your design brief.
5.3 Design consultants can help in their own areas of expertise.
Before taking on a consultant, prepare a brief (see 2.2). Ask selected consultants to give a presentation on what they can offer, and to provide details of previous projects.
- Consultants tend to focus on one area of design.
- A good designer will need to fully understand your business and will integrate design advice into your business planning.
Premises
Design for sales.
- Are your premises attractive to customers?
- Would corporate clothing be an advantage?
- Are products displayed effectively with benefits clearly signposted?
Design for productivity.
- What is the workflow from delivery of supplies, through the production process to despatch of finished goods?
- Which employees work together and use the same documents or equipment?
- Can you improve health and safety, and the welfare of employees?
Like most design opportunities, effective planning (see 2) and professional help (see 5) will reduce losses and increase potential.
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