ChatGPT's potential in your creative process
Creative Cue: Consider how AI can enhance your creative process
Picture this: you’re a graphic designer that is unsure about the surge in popularity of AI. You’re reluctant to interact with the technology, fearing it may one day run you out of the business. Maybe you don’t want to become too dependent on the text-to-image or large language model revolution. Fair.
I recently discussed my views on AI (spoiler: I’m not preparing for worst case scenario). On the contrary, I believe this emerging technology can be a designer’s best friend — or at least a useful collaborator — especially when you’re freelancing or working on lean creative teams.
This isn’t a traditional Creative Cue. There is no design prompt or brief to fulfill. Instead, it’s a challenge to think about how AI, specifically ChatGPT, can assist your design practice day-to-day. You might be pleasantly surprised by the numerous ways it can streamline your workflow and processes.
Typography
ChatGPT can assist graphic designers by providing font suggestions tailored to their project's style, mood, and target audience. Try this prompt.
“I'm working on a branding project for a tech startup, and I need some font suggestions. The company's logo has a modern, futuristic style with clean lines and rounded letterforms. I'm looking for fonts that align with this aesthetic. Can you recommend some fonts that would work well for this brand?”
Color
It can also aid designers in color selection by generating harmonious palettes based on project requirements. Ask ChatGPT to provide explanations for the chosen colors — which in turn offers valuable insight for clients. Prompt:
"I'm working on a website design project for a fashion brand, and I'm in need of a unique and visually appealing color palette. The brand's style is chic and elegant, and we want to evoke a sense of luxury. Can you help me come up with a suitable color scheme?"
Process
Working with clients can be confusing. Rather, non-designers can be easily confused about the design process. ChatGPT can aid designers by crafting a process that facilitates effective client communication and project management — ensuring everyone is on the same page. Try this:
“I have a potential client interested in a brochure design. Can you help me come up with a detailed process to ensure the client understands expectations and timeline beforehand?”
Time Management
I teach my students essential software skills, but they also learn about time and project management. Knowledge that (I think) is just as crucial. Use ChatGPT to generate project timelines, help to prioritize tasks, or offer reminders and scheduling advice. Projects will move forward and deadlines will be met.
"I'm working on a project to create social media templates, and I need a high-level month-long timeline for the project. Can you provide me with a general outline of tasks and deadlines for each week to ensure efficient delivery?"
Client Questions
If there’s a bizarre client situation, you’ll probably end up facing it one day. Whether you're dealing with outstanding payments or other tricky matters, ChatGPT can help draft friendly and effective messages that address concerns, show understanding, and aim for quick resolutions — keeping the conversation professional and crystal clear.
"I'm facing a situation with a client where they haven't provided the payment as agreed upon in our contract. This delay is causing difficulties in progressing with the project. What should be my next steps or communication strategy to handle this situation professionally and resolve the payment issue?"
Contracts
When it comes to contracts, my go-to recommendation for students is the Graphic Artists Guild Handbook: Pricing & Ethical Guidelines. It really is the holy grail — and industry standard — for pricing and contract advice. ChatGPT can be a fantastic complement, however. It simplifies the contract creation process by providing templates for your project's specific details, ensuring client agreements are legally sound and professional. Note: while it’s a handy tool, I still recommend the book as your primary reference point.
"I'm in need of a graphic design contract template to use with my clients. Can you help me generate a simple, yet comprehensive contract that outlines project details, payment terms, and ownership rights? Please include placeholders for project-specific information that I can fill in for each project."
Copywriting
ChatGPT is a valuable resource for graphic designers working independently or on a small team without dedicated copywriters. Using realistic copy instead of placeholder text helps to make client presentations clearer and more realistic. It also enhances the feedback and approval process (meaning, you’re more likely to get sign-off if you can tell a compelling story — one complete with design and copy).
"I'm working on a water conservation awareness poster, and I need a compelling headline and a concise body paragraph of copy to convey the importance of conserving water. Can you help me create these elements to inspire action and awareness?"
The possibilities are limitless. Again, here's my challenge for you: consider how ChatGPT can enhance your creative process. Time, our most precious resource, is often in short supply. Utilize available tools to reclaim more of it.