Review and how to give feedback
As a researcher, you know that the quality of iterations directly impacts the quality of the results. Your feedback can either fuel that process or derail it. Let's not derail it.
Specificity + Clarity = Better design results
Designers don't speak "make it more dynamic" fluently. But show us a reference? Now we're cooking.
How to review like a pro:
Be critical, clear, and to the point. Focus on what's helpful to create the final file.
Be specific. Focus on one issue and not multiple errors/incidents at once.
Put yourself in our readers' shoes. Will they get it?
Pin down actionable feedback. Don't just say what's wrong, suggest how to fix it. Recommend a solution or offer up specific examples of the next steps.
Check the big picture. Is the graphic design consistent? Your organisation voice well captured? Is the content legible? Is the structure working? Is the imagery clear and adequate?
Avoid the sandwich method. It makes me focus on the accolades and criticism could get lost.
Use PDF comments. Keep everything organised
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Test the links. Mark anything not working with "NW"
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Allow a response. Let me know if you are open to receiving feedback.
Feedback that helps:
✓ "Our audience is time-strapped policymakers who value efficiency"
✓ "Our organisation should feel approachable, not corporate"
Context + Audience + Purpose = Designer gold
How to say you don't like it (nicely):
Instead of: "I hate this"
Try: "This doesn't feel aligned with our research. Here's what we're aiming for..."
Instead of: "It's not working"
Try: "Our audience might find this overwhelming. Can we simplify?"
Before you submit for final review, ask yourself:
Does this actually solve the problem it was meant to solve?
Does it do so in the most appropriate way?
Does it satisfy all requirements?
Are there any remaining typos, open comments, or issues?
The win-win:
You bring: Strategy, goals, audience insights.
I bring: Visual problem-solving, creative execution.
When we communicate clearly, projects move faster, revisions drop, results improve, and everyone stays sane.
Choose collaboration. We'll make magic together.
