The Business of Design: Balancing Creativity and Profitability

by Keith Granet

The Business of Design debunks the myth that business sense and creative talent are mutually exclusive and, unlike other lackluster business books, is written and illustrated to captivate a visually thinking audience. For nearly thirty years, consultant Keith Granet has helped design professionals pursue their passion and turn a profit. From billing to branding, client management to marketing and licensing, The Business of Design reveals the tools necessary to create and run a thriving design business in today's ultra-competitive marketplace.

Genres: Design, Business, Nonfiction, Art, Architecture

257 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 19, 2012

Reviews

[Always Pouting · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ok not really sure when or why I bought this book, which happens to me a lot, because I'm not looking to open a design firm. That being said the books seems like a good starting point for anyone who might be, it was really clear and concise and now if I wanted to I could probably try to open my own design firm or really any business selling people a creative service. It's not exhaustive but it gives you a general idea about how to hire, managing the financial side, and project/product development. Seems like helpful reading for anyone recently out of school who'd eventually like to open their own firm.

[Wendy Cooper · Rating 2 out of 5]

The insights in this book were mostly common sense. It wasn’t particularly eloquent nor a pleasure to read. However, I can see its practical use even though they weren’t useful to me.

[LMM · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Very helpful IMO. I’ve been an entrepreneur in the design field for 20 years as a developer. I work closely with architects and am an interior designer. Even with my years of experience, this book helped me focus in new ways (from hiring to how to create a business plan - set your mission and vision statements first). I don’t think you have to be a designer or architect to appreciate the guidance this book teaches you. Some of it is pointed advice to designers but most of it is sound, tactical common sense and exercises.

[Lisa Nienhaus · Rating 2 out of 5]

As an Interior Designer, I expected this book - in part due to the title - to be about Interior Design. This book seemed about half Architectural and half Interior Design. Granted, I know these two fields work closely together, but my interest in reading this book, was for Interior Design only. In addition, this book seemed more common sense than new knowledge and I wasn't a fan of the writing style. The writing style felt more conversational, and almost demeaning at times; I felt a little insulted in spots.

[Natalia L Khaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

It is just the right book for every architect and interior designer. Read it to see the difference. I found it practical and inspiring.

[Jennifer Kerr-marsch · Rating 4 out of 5]

I better get to work

I have a small design firm and growing and need to put in place a better mind set to handle the growth. This was a great starting point to work.from.