Graphically Speaking

A Visual Lexicon for Achieving Better Designer-Client Communication

By Lisa Buchanan

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. It 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.

Lisa Buchanan is the Art Director of How Design Books. Before joining HOW, she worked with clients on freelance projects including logos, brochures, web sites, letterhead and business cards — all while developing her insights into client-designer relationship. Lisa lives in Cincinnati, Ohio.