Working with Design Clients: Tools and advice for successful partnerships

(Hardback)

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Description

The studio is a core strand of design education, and working with real clients is one of the most valuable ways for students to develop their professional design practice skills. The book is a practical guide to working on real-life briefs in the design studio - how to collaborate with and connect to communities, find and retain clients, and manage real-world design problems. Using tools and frameworks based on years of research and experience, students can develop their professional skills in a supportive environment. The book is divided into four sections: - Why (industry connections, experiential learning, personal empowerment) - What (engaging with communities, client work, structure) - Who (work roles, client relationships, articulating value) - How (launching, logistics, planning) The final section of the book covers information for those expanding into student-led studios, and includes information on strategies, financing and how to plan for the future. Supported by a companion website featuring downloads and resources for both students and instructors.

Author Bio

Meaghan Dee is a designer and an Associate Professor (and Chair) of Graphic Design at Virginia Tech, USA. Prior to this role, Meaghan spent three years as Director of a student-run, faculty-led studio, where she gained hands-on experience. Meaghan also spent six years serving on the board (and as co-chair) of the AIGA Design Educators' Community. Jessica Meharry is an Associate Professor and co-Director of Academic Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Columbia College Chicago, USA. She is a designer, scholar, and educator with cross-disciplinary research focused on developing inclusive design management pedagogy and designing for equitable economies. She has more than 20 years of experience in higher education.