Make design reviews consistent and defensible

Start by checking if the design feels right at first glance. Trust your gut here - if something looks off, it probably is. Key questions to ask:Does the typography create a clear reading hierarchy? Big stuff should grab attention first. Are colors working together or fighting each other? Is there enough breathing room between elements? Don't overthink it. If you need to squint or lean in, the design needs work.

Here's where we get practical. A pretty design that doesn't solve the actual problem is just decoration. Run through these checks:Does the design make the user's job easier? If not, why are we doing this? Can someone figure out how to use it without a manual? Did we actually solve what we set out to solve, or did we get distracted? Be honest. It's better to catch issues now than after launch.

Time to step back and look at the whole picture. Good design balances creativity with usability - too much of either kills the other. What to look for:Is there visual balance? Nothing should feel like it's about to tip over. Are creative choices helping communicate the message or just showing off? Would this still work if you removed the flashiest element? Remember: constraints breed creativity. The best designs work within limits, not despite them.

Consistency builds trust. Every design piece should feel like part of the same family. Quick audit:Do buttons look and behave the same everywhere? Is the color palette consistent throughout? Are fonts and spacing following patterns? Breaking the rules? Make sure there is a good reason.

Good design works for everyone. This is essential for reaching all your users. Accessibility checklist:Is there enough contrast between text and background? Would this work for someone using a screen reader? Can users navigate with just a keyboard? Run contrast checkers. Try navigating without a mouse. You will find issues you did not know existed.

You have done the hard work. Time to document and approve. Before signing off:Have all stakeholders reviewed the design? Are all files properly named and organized for handoff? Did you document any decisions that might look weird later? Once approved, this becomes the reference point. Make sure everyone is aligned.