Designers vs. Developers

April 27th, 2009 | Software Development, Website Content, Website Design

The graphic artists (designers) and code jockeys (developers) are normally seen as two kings ruling a single kingdom. They practically never get along and have several issues against the other. Does this affect their working? Of course it does; lack of cooperation leads to several misunderstandings between the developers and designers, and not only this, Project deadlines are also delayed when coordination is missing between these two so-called enemies.
Developer and designer working well together is not an exception, and they work wonders when they are together. Here are some helpful tips to maintain that relationship:
1. Unity is important
Working in agreement is a great thing. It is better that designers and developers sit at the same place while working. This helps in getting to know each other’s work and ability. Also, the communication gap is bridged between them.
2. Team up
Designers and developers should work together from beginning to the end. This helps in avoiding any unpleasant surprises later during the project—both at developing and designing end.
3. Hold meetings
Make this your routine, hold discussions with the other team members whenever starting a new phase of the project. This will clear the way and each one will know which direction they are headed towards.
4. Explain, it’s important for avoiding wars
This point is specifically for the developers, Always explain when you have problems regarding a certain design. A straight away “NO” will not be enough to convince the designer. Explaining will give the designer an idea about how to improve the design from the developing point of view—and you never know what a wonderful design you could turn up with together.
5. Show some respect
For the end result to be productive, both sides must value each other’s decisions. This does not mean ignoring the wrong doings of the other, do challenge designs or identify any development error—but make sure you are a positive critique and the remarks are not intended to offend the other. There are certain things you can keep in mind:
• Never reject any idea then and there! You might risk of losing something really great in a hurry.
• Ever tried to remember why the oldies said “think before you speak”? Its time you also think about it.
• Compromise on a few things. You cannot always have your decisions followed; try considering the other’s point of view as well.
• Think as a team, not as an individual.

6. Don’t forget to challenge while going hand-in-hand
Getting well along, respecting each other and compromising at times doesn’t mean you forget to challenge something you don’t like. Arguments are good for bringing out the best solutions. A result deducted without a challenge is not effective than the one that undergoes hard challenges and comes out refined.
If you have many failed projects due to lack of designer and developer coordination, look towards Cyber Designz. Our policy is to work as a team. Not only the developers and designers—also the content writers, SEO specialists, and Quality testers work together to deliver you results higher than your expectations.