What do you do if your boss and you have conflicting design visions?

1 Understand Vision

It's important to fully grasp your boss's perspective on the design. Listen actively to their rationale and the objectives they aim to achieve. This understanding might reveal a common ground or an aspect of their vision that you can appreciate and incorporate into your own ideas. Remember, industrial design is not only about aesthetics but also about functionality, user experience, and market viability. By aligning your design vision with these core principles, you may find a pathway to merge differing concepts into a cohesive plan.

2 Communicate Clearly

Once you've understood your boss's vision, articulate your own design ideas with clarity and confidence. Use sketches, mood boards, or 3D models to visually communicate your concepts. This can help bridge the gap between different visions by providing a tangible representation of your ideas. Ensure that you highlight how your design meets the project goals and user needs, which are often the primary concern in industrial design. Effective communication is about being persuasive without being confrontational, so keep the dialogue open and constructive.

4 Propose Alternatives

When direct opposition arises, proposing alternative solutions can be a diplomatic way to address conflicting visions. These alternatives should aim to satisfy both your design intent and your boss's expectations. Presenting multiple options shows that you are flexible and willing to work towards a mutually beneficial outcome. It also demonstrates your problem-solving skills and your commitment to the project's success.

5 Reflect on Feedback

After presenting your ideas, be open to feedback. Your boss's critiques may provide valuable insights that can refine your design further. Industrial design is iterative, and feedback is an integral part of the process that leads to excellence. Use this as an opportunity to learn and grow as a designer, and remember that each project is a collaborative effort where different viewpoints can strengthen the final product.

6 Manage Conflict

If conflicts persist, it's important to manage them professionally. Avoid letting emotions dictate your responses, and focus on the project's objectives to steer the conversation back to a productive path. If necessary, involve other team members or stakeholders who can provide an objective perspective. Maintaining professionalism will help preserve your relationship with your boss and ensure that the work environment remains conducive to creativity and innovation.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?