Before beginning a design project for a client/customer, designers need five elements for maximum efficiency and to produce the most desired final outcome:

1) Project Brief

A clear and comprehensive project brief outlines the project's objectives, scope, and target audience, and any specific guidelines or constraints. It serves as a guiding document, providing designers with the necessary insights to align their creativity with the project's goals.

2) Needs and Goals

An in-depth understanding of the project's context and user requirements is crucial. This involves research into the industry, target audience, and design trends. With this information, designers can make decisions that ensure their creations are not only visually appealing but also strategically relevant.

3) Inspiration

Designers often begin by creating mood boards or inspiration boards, collating color schemes, typography samples, and design styles. These provide a visual reference, guiding designers toward a cohesive and inspired design direction.

4) Features

Defining the features of the design is important. This involves identifying the functionalities and characteristics that the final product should encompass to meet user needs and project goals.

5) Flows

Understanding how users will interact with the design is essential for a seamless experience. This includes mapping out the various pathways users will take through the product, ensuring a logical and intuitive experience.