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Kalie Berkey Creative

Strategic branding and web design studio for creative entrepreneurs and small businesses.

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February 3, 2025

Critique Like a Pro: How to Give Effective Feedback on Design Concepts

Design Process & Workflow, Small Business and Marketing Tips

Two Women Talking

Just received your brand new shiny design? Excellent! But First, Let’s Put on Some Different Glasses. Along with that concept, you’ve also received a video walkthrough from me, explaining the design decisions behind every element. I walk you through my thought process and explain why I made the choices I did. This is to give you a solid foundation for understanding the design’s strategic direction. Now you’re brimming with thoughts, ready to share your feedback. Fantastic! Let’s talk about how to make that feedback as effective as possible.

Because while your initial reaction is valuable, refining a design to absolute perfection is a collaborative process. Think of it as a journey we embark on together. You know your business inside and out. You’re the expert on your customers, your market, and your brand’s unique personality. I’m the design expert, translating that knowledge into visual magic. But to make that magic truly work, we need to speak the same language.

That language isn’t “I prefer blue.” It’s more like: “Does this design speak to our target demographic of eco-conscious millennials?” Or, “Does this evoke the feeling of luxury and exclusivity we’re aiming for?”

Here are a few questions to ponder before you hit "send":

  • Does this design reflect my brand’s voice and spirit?
    Is your brand playful and approachable? Sophisticated and refined? The design should embody that.
  • What elements of this design will resonate with my audience?
    Consider the colors, typography, imagery – what will grab their attention and speak to their needs?
  • Are there any elements that don’t align with my audience?
    Perhaps a font feels too dated or a color clashes with the overall message. Be specific! Why doesn’t it work?

Instead of focusing on minutiae like “the logo is slightly too big,” consider the bigger picture. I want to brainstorm with you. Just alerting me of the things that don’t work is enough to get us started. We’ll come up with new ideas together. 

And here’s a pro tip:​

Resist the urge to jump on a call immediately after seeing the design. Give yourself (and me!) some time to digest it. Thoughtful reflection leads to more productive conversations. We want to engage in a collaborative process of refinement.

Because, ultimately, I’m not just creating pretty pictures. I’m building visual solutions that help you achieve your business goals. And to do that effectively, we need your insightful feedback.

So, put on those customer-tinted glasses, and let's get to work.

Elevate Your Client Experience

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This worksheet will help you identify key customer touchpoints and learn where you can add a personal touch to your interactions, streamlining their experience for a seamless, professional journey so you can make effective, lasting connections with your clients.

 

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Hi there, I'm Kalie


Just like you, I’m a woman who built my business and brand from the ground up.


When it comes to building yours, the design process doesn’t have to be scary. It can be accessible. It can be personal. It can be invigorating.


You know that feeling when you took the plunge with your business? That feeling of, “Wow, I’m really doing this?” That flutter when you wake up each day knowing you’re building something awesome?


Having an elevated visual brand takes that feeling up a notch. Not just for you, but for those you serve.

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Elevate Your Client Experience

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