I cannot stress enough how important case studies are to your portfolio. A case study is a detailed analysis of a particular project where you highlight the problem, process, solution, etc. Case studies are a wonderful way to show how you tackled a problem and came to a solution, which potential clients love to see. From my experience, here are six crucial details you should include in your case studies:
Beginning your case studies with a brief summary of your client is always a great start. You should write information about your client, including their history, what they do, and even their mission/vision. By doing this your reader will have a clear understanding of who your client is.
You need to clearly specify what the challenge or problem is that your client is facing. This is where you explain your client’s issue(s) and what they are asking of you. In other words, you are detailing the design brief to the reader.
One of the most essential details you can include in a case study is your process. Highlighting your process will give your potential clients an understanding of how you work.
First, you should include your findings from your discovery phase, which contains research and any mood boards you compiled. Secondly, you want to emphasize the creation process with a step-by-step explanation of how you got to the solution. In addition, you should include visuals of any mind maps, sketches, preliminary designs, revisions, etc.
Clients are coming to you for not only your design skills but for you to solve their problem(s). Make sure you explain how the final product solved your client’s problem(s). In other words, this is where you demonstrate your answer to the design brief. Moreover, make sure you show images. For example, if the brief was to design a brand identity guide, then demonstrate images of the guide by using mockups.
Arguably the most important detail you can include in your case studies is the end result. This is where you describe what the solution did for your client. For instance, the results can be revenue increase, a rise in customer engagement, development of merchandise, etc. Furthermore, you want to show proof if possible. Include numbers, charts, graphs, product samples, etc. Just make sure that whatever proof you share does not disclose any confidential information about your client. In conclusion, results will validate your work and entice potential clients to work with you.
You should end your case studies with client testimonials. This will show your readers the satisfaction of your clients while building credibility as a designer. Assuming that your client is happy with your work, I recommend asking for a testimonial after the project is complete.
There you have it, six crucial details you should include in your case studies. All of this might seem daunting at first but if you have a process in place and you document your progression, then producing a case study should be a breeze. You’ll also get better with each case study you write. In conclusion, case studies are a great way to spice up your portfolio and help you gain authority in your niche.
Interested in working on your dream design? Contact me today and we will discuss how to make your dream design become a reality!
All the best,
Cassio Vieira
Duvio Studio
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