Your client wants an off-brand design trend. How do you navigate this creative challenge?

First, there is only 0.1% chances that this will happen. Still, if it happens then explain them that this is not recommended. Explain all consequences that might happen if design goes off-brand.

In my experience, assessing needs goes beyond just understanding the client's goals; it's about uncovering the deeper narrative they may not fully articulate. For example, when a client requested a design trend that felt off-brand, we didn't just push back. Instead, we explored why they were drawn to it. We discovered they wanted to appeal to a younger demographic. By connecting this need with StikkmanUX’s core identity of creating meaningful user experiences, we guided them towards a solution that resonated authentically with their audience while satisfying their desire for a fresh approach. This approach fostered trust and revealed a more fitting solution

When a client pushes for an off-brand design trend, it's essential to take a step back and truly understand the brand's essence. In my experience, analyzing the brand is about more than just identifying its values and aesthetics—it's about recognizing the emotional connection the brand has with its audience. This connection drives brand loyalty. Here’s how I approach brand analysis: 1. Identify Core Values 2. Examine Visual Language 3. Understand Market Position 4. Evaluate Emotional Impact By deeply understanding this relationship, I can craft a design strategy that respects the brand’s identity while thoughtfully integrating new ideas that enhance, rather than dilute, what makes the brand unique.

Rather than completely diverging from the brand, suggest exploring trends that complement or enhance the brand’s identity. This way, you introduce something new without losing the essence of what makes the brand unique.

In my experience, offering creative options isn't just about blending trends with brand identity; it's about sparking a dialogue that pushes the boundaries of what the brand can be. When clients see that you’ve taken their idea and expanded it into multiple thoughtful directions, it shows them the potential of their vision within the brand's framework. At StikkmanUX, we've found that presenting a spectrum of options—ranging from conservative to bold—opens up new possibilities and often leads to a design solution that neither party initially imagined, but both are excited about.

I've found that educating the client is less about correction and more about collaboration. It's about guiding them to see the broader picture of how their brand communicates with its audience. At StikkmanUX, we turn this into an interactive process, using data-driven insights and real-world examples to show how the right design choices can amplify their brand’s message. By making clients part of the learning process, we empower them to make informed decisions that align with both their vision and the brand's long-term goals.