I’m super grumpy right now. I was investigating redesigning my regular website, and the designers roped me into a full-blown project. I didn’t want to commit, but now I’m stuck with reviewing concepts, writing new copy, rethinking navigation.

But the main reason I’m grumpy is because the designers don’t seem to be getting my concepts. I keep saying I want something clean with lots of white space and very few words. I sent three sample sites that have the elements I want. And I keep getting designs that are chock full of text and without any semblance of a clean design. This one has some kind of a road-kill pigeon feather as some representation of a quill. Ugh!

I’m part of the problem. Because I haven’t had time to sit down and figure out what I want, I’m doing a lot more communicating about what I don’t want. All I really want to write back is “Guys, are you kidding me? Ugh!” But that won’t be helpful. I’d also prefer to cancel the project so I can get back to other things, but I’ve paid a deposit.

So a few minutes ago I grabbed a cup of coffee, took a deep breath, and sketched out a little mock-up of what I was envisioning. I can’t rely on their interpretation of what I want, because we’re obviously miles apart on concept.

My point here? Don’t ask people to read your mind, and don’t try to read the minds of your clients. If you’re going to delve into a project with a client, make sure you’re not just guessing. Your clients will be less frustrated with you if you take the time to ask all the questions you need to up front.