Ninety percent of group discussions start off on the wrong foot
“Ninety percent of group discussions start with group members talking about their initial impressions. The research is clear that this is a poor idea; instead, by starting the discussion with relevant information, this data will be weighed more carefully for a better decision.”
Quoted from page 214 of 100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People (New Riders, 2011), written by Susan Weinschenk (good book, by the way).
Think of it like this: When you’re presenting design options to a client (whether in person or with a presentation document), always begin with a recap of the design brief. That way, everyone’s focused on the project objectives, and the most appropriate decision is more likely to be made.
Related posts
7 appreciated comments on “Ninety percent of group discussions start off on the wrong foot”
Anything to add?
All comments are moderated so you may experience a short delay before yours appears. Comments should be respectful of other voices in the discussion, and I reserve the right to edit or delete comments at my discretion.
Please use your real name. Keywords will be removed.
Such an obvious tip which clearly doesn’t get used enough, great reminder!
Agreed Alicia!
Also a great way of curtailing scope-creep. When you reach the stage of a project where all the new additions and ammendments outside of the initial scope are being requested, a recap of the design brief can work wonders.
Ah Yes… this works in family matters and financial discussions with oneself as well. Always work back from the goal.
And I might add a goal without a plan (or design brief) is simply a wish. Great advice once again David!!
Too true. Start with a recap of the brief and, if discussions become wayward, keep referring back to it so that all ideas are examined from the perspective of achieving agreed objectives.
such a great tip and its something that I’ll definitely have to keep in mind when it comes to discussions. Because its so easy to listen to someone go off on a tangent about something not even related to the design project.
Keeping the target clear in everyone’s eyes has made a huge difference between enjoyable projects and management nightmares.
This also makes it easier down the road to convince clients, and yourself, about whether a design or idea that is not popular is still objectively the best one, even if it takes some warming up to.
It also pays to keep an eye out for people who redefine objectives to suit their needs!