Importance of Details in Design

How important are details?

Sometimes the world seems like nothing more to me than a collection of typographical errors, color theory blunders, and confusing symbolism. Consequently, everything I touch tends to come under scrutiny. Though usually unconscious and mostly internal, my critiques are not that well received by my friends and family.

The usual response: You’re the only one who notices that, and you’re the only one who cares.

My response: If designers don’t care about these important details, who will?

Putting it in perspective

Doctor. Your doctor notices that there may be a serious problem with your blood work. But the nurse tells the doctor not to worry about it because he/she is the only one who will notice that sort of thing…

Engineer. An engineer notices cracks in a bridge that seriously compromise its structural integrity. Assistant says that the engineer is the only one who will notice that sort of thing…

Car Salesman. The salesman finds that one of his vehicles is missing brakes. His coworker reminds him that the brakes are hidden from sight, so he’s the only one that would notice that sort of thing…

Get my drift?

I’ve come across many designers who produce highly creative, conceptual work. However, too often there seems to be a lack of attention to detail. Now, I’m all for creativity, after all it’s the name of the game, but it alone does not make an effective project. There is something to be said for the complete polish, and finality that elements like typography, scalability and simplicity, for example, can add to your work.

The way I see it

The ideal situation would allow creativity to take its course, producing that gem of an idea. But the key is to see that idea to finished product, and not stop short. Ignoring details that pull a work together will never do it justice. Though not always as sexy, details take on an equally important role in the design process. There is no excuse for neglecting the details, unless of course you’re lazy or incompetent.

If I’m wrong, I’m wrong. I’m just blowing bubbles…