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Say it so they see it...
see it so you can say it!
A Review by Fred Showker
Graphically Speaking: A Visual Lexicon for Achieving Better Designer-Client
Communication (Graphic Design) by Lisa Buchanan
Lisa Buchanan wrote this book for a couple of reasons, I love it for all of those
reasons! This is not just an inspiring romp of eye candy for the creative side of
all designers, (which is why I love it most) but a working tool to use in establishing
a common ground between the designer and client.
From it's heavy, die-cut cover to the lavish process color on
virtually every single page, this book is one of the most delightful visual treats
I've seen in many years. I thought such books had become extinct!
If you've ever had a hard time trying to figure out exactly what your
client wants, then this book is for you!
Lisa has organized the graphic arts world in to a collection of 31 distinct personalities
-- from "Alluring" to "Corporate" to "Vintage" to "Zing!"
Each carries with it a selection of appropriate colors, correct "speaking"
type font suggestions, and samples -- wonderful samples -- of work that fits the
genre. You browse through the book and find idea starters that are perfect for just
about any business or situation.
According to Lisa:
It's all too often that designers leave a meeting with clients
feeling as if they've been speaking an entirely different language. Graphically Speaking
solves such communication problems by breaking down client-designer dialogue into
something both parties can understand.
From the very beginning the book stresses the importance of defining the project.
Lisa's 21-step "survey" of questions to ask the client is very nearly the
same one I've used with clients since 1972. So I know they work -- and I know how
important they are in developing the look and feel of the project.
 Then, Graphically Speaking visually "defines"
more than 30 of the most common words that clients use to describe what they want
in a design. Vague, possibly confusing terms--words like "elegant" or "powerful"
or "warm"-- are made specific as they relate to actual design style.
Entries provide visual reference materials including color combinations, fonts and
final designs, so that terms are defined both literally and visually. Because of
the structure of the book, it's really three "must-have" books in one --
a client communication guide, a designer reference and an inspiring collection of
top design projects.
"The benefit of this book is jthat you can flip to the
section most similar to the words the client is using and both of you can browse
the color schemes, fonts, and various designs."
 Lisa Buchanan...
Before becoming the art director for HOW Design Books, Lisa Buchanan worked with
clients on a freelance basis designing logos, brochures,Web sites, and identity systems-all
the while developing her insights into the client-designer relationship. Since arriving
at F&W, she has earned an Art Director's Award for the cover of Creative Edge
Brochures. Some of her recent book designs include Powerful Page Design, Designer~
Survival Manual, Designing Web Sites for Every Audience, Idea Revolution, and The
Pocket Muse and others.
This book is a knock-out. Once you get it in your hands,
you won't be able to put it down. In fact, if you've got other designers in the shop,
you'll need to be extra careful where you put it down because it seems to
attract people with sticky fingers. I've already lost it three times... turning
up on different desks each time! People just can't keep their hands off of it! "WOW
this is a killer" they'll say. Then: "Can I have this one?" In you
dreams!
This book goes into my personal collection of all-time fabulous books for my own
use. Which is why we give it an enthusiastic "Editor's Choice" award this
month.
Graphically Speaking
A Visual Lexicon for Achieving Better Designer-Client Communication
(Graphic Design)
by Lisa Buchanan
List Price: $32.99
Price: $23.09
You Save: $9.90 (30%)
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