As a designer, I have to have logical reasons for the designs I do. When the client has demands that can harm the design, I must first listen carefully and be able to explain my design based on reasons and logic. From why I design to... I have to show that I am taking steps towards the success of the project and that I, the designer, want the best output just like the customer.

One time at work: A client requested a feature that would have compromised the user experience. I explained the impact on usability and presented an alternative that met their business goals without sacrificing design integrity. In my experience: Open communication is key. When clients understand the trade-offs, they are more willing to collaborate on solutions that preserve design quality. One thing I’ve found helpful: Offering creative alternatives that align with both the client’s needs and the project vision keeps the integrity intact while addressing their concerns.

To preserve design integrity while handling unexpected client demands, I focus on clear communication and collaboration. I first assess whether the new requests align with the project's core objectives and explain potential impacts on the design. I propose alternative solutions that meet the client’s needs without compromising the original vision, ensuring we balance creativity with practicality. This way, we maintain a strong design while being adaptable to the client’s evolving requirements.

Unexpected client demands can be challenging, but I manage them by keeping clients highly engaged throughout the process. By ensuring ongoing communication and collaboration, they typically keenly understand how changes impact their project’s outcome. When they may not, I explain with specificity and defer to them to chose their project's path (outcomes). Given today’s fast-paced market, I also anticipate the need to be agile and nimble. My biggest go-to strategy is to front-load project schedules, allowing flexibility to address unforeseen curveballs without compromising deadlines (and thus, safeguarding the design integrity).

When tasked with preserving design integrity and faced with unexpected client demands, my first step is to fully understand where those requests are coming from. I listen carefully to the client’s needs and the reasons behind their demands. Then, I work to find a solution that meets their expectations while maintaining the integrity of the design. If necessary, I propose alternatives that address their goals without compromising the core of the design. This approach allows me to balance client demands with the need to uphold design quality.