Design

5. Using Outside Help

Good designers help you to move quickly from asking a question 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.