When you meet a design consultant for the first time, it’s essential to uncover the true scale of what needs to be done. The technical detail can sometimes be daunting. Design is often an underestimated discipline. Tech has certainly made some things easier but it still requires creativity, experience and some serious production capabilities with two, sometimes three different processes involved. To really get a handle on it, sit down with a designer and hash out the fundamental issues at hand. Committing things to a brief is always a good idea. A refined design brief clarifies thinking, forces everyone to consider the impact of what you’re doing and essentially keeps everyone honest. The moment a goal post changes position is the moment you update the brief. Discuss the potential knock-on effects on deadlines and finances. No matter how uncomfortable at the time, it’s the only way to avoid tears and tantrums at full time.