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10 strategies and tactics for Design

What is Design strategy?

Every great achievement starts with a well-thought-out plan. It can be the launch of a new product, expanding into new markets, or just trying to increase efficiency. You'll need a delicate combination of strategies and tactics to ensure that the journey is smooth and effective.

Crafting the perfect Design strategy can feel overwhelming, particularly when you're juggling daily responsibilities. That's why we've put together a collection of examples to spark your inspiration.

Copy these examples into your preferred app, or you can also use Tability to keep yourself accountable.

How to write your own Design strategy with AI

While we have some examples available, it's likely that you'll have specific scenarios that aren't covered here. You can use our free AI generator below or our more complete goal-setting system to generate your own strategies.

Design strategy examples

You'll find below a list of Design tactics. We also included action items for each template to make it more practical and useful.

Strategies and tactics for improving User-Centric Design and Branding Consistency

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Implement User-Centric Design Testing Processes

    • Conduct usability testing sessions with 200 users across Edubanc, EdPay, PayFlex, and Tuition Invoicing
    • Collaborate with operations, marketing, and product teams to identify and prioritise the top 5 design issues
    • Organise 2 focus group testing sessions for Edubanc and PayFlex to gather initial usability feedback
    • Design and integrate a systematic feedback collection process into Edubanc and EdPay product workflows
    • Establish a timeline for regular usability testing to ensure ongoing user feedback integration
    • Analyse usability testing data to highlight recurring themes and areas needing improvement
    • Schedule bi-weekly cross-functional meetings to address feedback findings with relevant stakeholders
    • Deploy changes based on identified design issues and re-test to confirm resolution
    • Create follow-up surveys post-testing to gauge user satisfaction and experience
    • Document all findings and improvements as case studies to inform future design processes

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Develop and Enforce Unified Branding Guidelines

    • Create a comprehensive branding guide that covers all visual and messaging aspects for all products
    • Apply the branding guide to five key product interfaces by conducting iterative design updates
    • Conduct training sessions for the entire design team to familiarise them with the new branding guidelines
    • Develop a checklist for designers to ensure adherence to branding guidelines in every project
    • Set up a review board tasked with overseeing branding consistency across ongoing projects
    • Create template assets that comply with the branding guide for easy reuse
    • Involve the marketing team in the branding guide creation to align brand messaging with design
    • Track the impact of updated interfaces on user experience and brand perception through feedback channels
    • Host quarterly workshops to revise and update the branding guidelines as necessary
    • Gather cross-team feedback to ensure the branding guide remains practical and user-focused

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Optimise Design Processes for Improved Efficiency

    • Map current design processes to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies
    • Set specific time reduction goals for design turnaround, such as reducing feature design completion from 20 to 17 days
    • Establish a shared asset library for design components to boost reuse and efficiency
    • Organise monthly cross-functional reviews to ensure operations, marketing, and growth feedback are integrated
    • Implement A/B testing protocols on onboarding flow designs to validate potential efficiency gains
    • Incorporate design tools and analytics for tracking asset utilisation and workflow progress
    • Run training sessions on advanced design tools and processes to enhance team capabilities
    • Measure and report on efficiency metrics, presenting these findings in team meetings
    • Iterate and refine processes continually based on feedback and performance data
    • Create a culture of continuous improvement through regular feedback sessions and design retrospectives
user-centric-designbranding-consistencydesignerbranding-manageroperationsmarketing
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Strategies and tactics for designing a Sustainable Interior Space

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Incorporate Sustainable Materials

    • Use eco-certified furniture such as FSC and Cradle to Cradle certified products
    • Select materials that are low-impact and long-lasting to ensure durability
    • Source materials and products locally to reduce transportation emissions
    • Opt for designs that allow for flexibility and future adaptability
    • Choose rapidly renewable materials like bamboo and cork
    • Incorporate recycled or reclaimed materials in the design
    • Avoid materials that emit high levels of VOCs or other harmful toxins
    • Use modular designs to minimise waste and support reuse
    • Implement a circular design approach that considers disassembly and reuse
    • Incorporate low-flow water fixtures and appliances to enhance water efficiency

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Enhance Energy and Water Usage

    • Install energy-saving LED lighting with motion and occupancy sensors
    • Use only Energy Star-rated appliances to ensure efficiency
    • Maximise natural daylight by using reflective surfaces and smart layout designs
    • Utilise programmable thermostats to manage energy use effectively
    • Install dual-flush toilets and greywater systems for water conservation
    • Select drought-resistant indoor plants to reduce water consumption
    • Conduct audits on site to measure and improve water and energy efficiency
    • Incorporate smart technology for continuous monitoring of sustainability metrics
    • Integrate energy and resource modeling tools to assess efficiency
    • Consider energy-zoning to optimise heating and cooling in different areas

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Optimise Indoor Environmental Quality

    • Use non-toxic paints, adhesives, and sealants to improve air quality
    • Ensure proper ventilation and air filtration systems are installed
    • Incorporate elements of biophilic design to bring natural elements indoors
    • Design spaces for acoustic comfort using sound-absorbing panels
    • Provide easy access for recycling and composting to manage waste
    • Use modular flooring and fixtures to allow for reusability
    • Minimise packaging waste through tailored supplier agreements
    • Conduct pre- and post-construction waste audits for accountability
    • Design outdoor areas with permeable surfaces to reduce environmental runoff
    • Incorporate green roofs and walls to support the building’s ecological footprint
sustainable-materialsenergy-efficiencyinterior-designersustainability-specialistenvironmental-audit-teamdesign-team
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Strategies and tactics for creating a Comprehensive Monthly Digital Marketing Strategy

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Generate engaging video content

    • Create a 'Before vs. After' room transformation with a humorous twist, recommended length: 30 seconds, post on Wednesdays at 3 PM
    • Develop a ‘Design Challenge’ video where different tools are mistakenly used in place of the design tools, run a poll, post on Sundays at 11 AM
    • Post a ‘Day in the Life of a Pillow’ video, follow the pillow through its adventures, suggested length: 15 seconds, post on Fridays at 6 PM
    • Film a mini-series ‘Guess the Design Style’ with interactive questions, each video should be 20 seconds, post on Mondays at 12 PM
    • Host a ‘Interior Designer’s Unboxing’ of bizarre design items, each episode 25 seconds long, post on Saturdays at 5 PM
    • Share a humorous ‘Design Fails’ compilation with a call to action for followers to share their own, 10 seconds each, post on Tuesdays at 2 PM
    • Launch a video series ‘Designer Secrets Revealed’ featuring common misconceptions, recommended length: 20 seconds, post on Thursdays at 4 PM
    • Create a ‘Furniture That Can Dance’ – use stop motion to show furniture ‘dancing’, 15 seconds long, post on Fridays at 7 PM
    • Record a ‘Interior Design Myth Busting’ video using engaging visuals, 30 seconds, post on Mondays at 1 PM
    • Develop a ‘Designer’s Choice – Trends to Try’ video with dynamic transitions, 25 seconds, post on Wednesdays at 6 PM

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Develop static post content

    • Design a post ‘Spot the Difference’ with two images of a room setup, include a humorous caption, hashtags: #InteriorDesignFun, #SpotTheDifference, post on Sundays at 10 AM
    • Create a vibrant infographic on ‘The Evolution of Sofas in Cinema History’, use a catchy headline, hashtags: #CinemaSofas, #InteriorTrends, engage with questions about favourite era, post on Mondays at 3 PM
    • Share a ‘Meme Day’ post featuring funny interior design memes with captions, encourage sharing memes in comments, hashtags: #InteriorMemes, #DesignLaughs, post on Wednesdays at 1 PM
    • Post a ‘Interior Design Quiz’ with visually appealing graphics, ask followers’ opinions through polls, hashtags: #DesignQuiz, #GuessThatStyle, post on Fridays at 9 AM

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Outline overall strategy and engagement

    • Set KPIs including a 10% increase in engagement rate, a 5% growth in followers, and an increase in shares by 15%
    • Implement monthly Q&A sessions via Instagram Live to foster community interaction
    • Encourage user-generated content by initiating a monthly design challenge with a unique hashtag
    • Utilise Instagram Stories to feature behind-the-scenes content and design tips three times a week
    • Use Instagram Reels for quick DIY tips and tricks, enhancing visibility of the account
    • Collaborate with micro-influencers in the interior design space to broaden audience reach
    • Host a monthly giveaway with a partner brand, incentivising engagement with attractive prizes
    • Respond to comments promptly to encourage conversations and build relations with followers
    • Regularly share followers’ design success stories on stories or posts to highlight community involvement
    • Monitor the effectiveness of content using Instagram Insights and adjust strategy based on data analysis
engagementcreativitysocial-media-managercontent-creatormarketing-teamdesign-team
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Strategies and tactics for providing eco-friendly and unique fashion designs

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Partner with sustainable material suppliers

    • Research suppliers who specialise in eco-friendly materials
    • Reach out and initiate conversations with potential suppliers
    • Negotiate terms for cost-effective bulk purchases
    • Request samples to assess quality and sustainability
    • Build long-term relationships with selected suppliers
    • Incorporate feedback from design teams on material usability
    • Ensure eco-certifications are up-to-date and verified
    • Set up a logistics plan for continuous material supply
    • Evaluate supplier performance periodically
    • Adapt material choices based on market trends and feedback

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Engage with the fashion community

    • Identify key fashion influencers and icons
    • Develop a compelling pitch highlighting the brand's mission
    • Invite influencers to exclusive brand launch events
    • Collaborate on co-branded designs with selected influencers
    • Leverage social media for interactive engagement
    • Provide VIPs with exclusive early access to collections
    • Curate personalised gifts for long-term partnerships
    • Feature influencers' testimonials prominently on platforms
    • Host regular fashion workshops to share eco-design insights
    • Encourage community feedback to continuously improve designs

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Incorporate innovative graphic design techniques

    • Stay abreast of current trends in graphic design
    • Invest in modern design software and tools
    • Hire skilled designers with a passion for sustainability
    • Encourage team brainstorming sessions for design ideas
    • Offer designers regular training on latest techniques
    • Explore and integrate digital fashion concepts
    • Test new design concepts through trial runs
    • Create limited edition collections to test new ideas
    • Seek customer feedback on design preferences
    • Continuously refine designs based on customer input
eco-friendly-materialsfashion-communitydesignersfashion-influencerssupply-chain-teamdesign-team
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Strategies and tactics for enhancing mentoring skills to help grow junior designers

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Develop a structured mentoring plan

    • Identify the key skills and knowledge areas junior designers need to develop
    • Create a timeline for mentoring activities and check-ins
    • Design a mix of formal and informal mentoring interactions
    • Set clear and achievable goals for the mentees
    • Develop relevant learning resources and materials
    • Schedule regular feedback sessions to discuss progress
    • Incorporate real-world projects to provide hands-on experience
    • Organise group mentoring sessions and peer learning opportunities
    • Adjust the mentoring plan based on feedback and progress
    • Monitor the long-term career growth of mentees

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Foster an open and supportive environment

    • Promote open communication and active listening
    • Encourage mentees to share their challenges and successes
    • Build a culture of trust and mutual respect
    • Provide constructive and actionable feedback
    • Offer encouragement and celebrate achievements
    • Share personal experiences and lessons learned
    • Be approachable and show empathy
    • Encourage mentees to take on new responsibilities
    • Create opportunities for mentees to ask questions and seek advice
    • Organise team-building activities to strengthen relationships

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Stay updated with industry trends and best practices

    • Regularly attend industry conferences and workshops
    • Subscribe to relevant design blogs, podcasts, and newsletters
    • Join professional design communities and forums
    • Participate in online courses and webinars
    • Read books on design and mentoring best practices
    • Network with other experienced mentors for insights and advice
    • Encourage mentees to share new trends they discover
    • Implement and adapt new techniques in mentoring sessions
    • Evaluate the effectiveness of new strategies and adjust accordingly
    • Share industry updates and insights with mentees
mentoringjunior-designersmentormenteedesign-teamlearning-&-development-team
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Strategies and tactics for developing a Comprehensive Strategic Plan for Marketing and Communications

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Strengthen brand recognition and awareness

    • Conduct a brand audit to identify strengths and areas for improvement
    • Create a unified branding guideline to be distributed across all departments
    • Organise a series of brand-focused workshops for FNU staff
    • Develop a consistent messaging strategy highlighting FNU's dual roles
    • Engage professional designers to update FNU's visual identity
    • Leverage successful alumni stories in marketing materials and campaigns
    • Launch a digital campaign featuring student testimonials and experiences
    • Collaborate with influencers and media for broader reach
    • Use targeted social media ads to reach potential students
    • Monitor brand perception through regular surveys and social listening

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Enhance stakeholder engagement and partnerships

    • Map out key stakeholders and create a targeted engagement plan
    • Develop an alumni relations strategy that includes networking events
    • Launch a newsletter for staff, students, and alumni to foster connection
    • Establish partnerships with local and international businesses
    • Organise industry panels and talks at FNU to increase visibility
    • Promote collaborative research initiatives with partner institutions
    • Host bi-annual stakeholder forums to discuss university progress
    • Develop student ambassador programs to engage current and prospective students
    • Launch campaigns highlighting student achievements in local communities
    • Implement stakeholder feedback mechanisms to improve relationships

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Drive a digital transformation and innovation in marketing

    • Adopt advanced digital marketing tools and platforms
    • Create a dedicated content team for social media management
    • Introduce monthly podcasts focusing on trends and experiences at FNU
    • Enhance the FNU website with a user-friendly experience
    • Run SEO and content marketing campaigns to increase organic reach
    • Engage in targeted email marketing for different audience segments
    • Invest in analytics tools to assess digital campaign performance
    • Produce engaging video content showcasing the university's offerings
    • Use virtual reality for interactive virtual tours of campus facilities
    • Launch digital education initiatives to support online learning goals
brand-recognitiondigital-transformationmarketing-managercommunications-specialistpublic-relationsdigital-marketing
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Strategies and tactics for defining Key Performance Indicators and Key Risk Indicators

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Identify and define relevant KPIs

    • Research industry standards for CAD design performance metrics
    • Consult with senior designers to understand company-specific KPIs
    • Define time-based KPIs such as average design completion time
    • Include accuracy metrics by measuring error rates in designs
    • Track the number of design iterations needed before approval
    • Assess customer satisfaction with completed designs
    • Measure personal development through completed training sessions
    • Include innovation metrics such as the number of suggestions for design improvements
    • Use software tools to automate tracking and reporting of KPIs
    • Regularly review and adjust KPIs to align with evolving project goals

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Identify and define relevant KRIs

    • Identify potential risks in the design process of press brake machines
    • Rank risks by likelihood and impact to prioritise focus
    • Define a threshold for acceptable design error rates
    • Monitor compliance with industry safety standards in designs
    • Track external factors such as supply chain disruptions affecting design timelines
    • Set up alerts for deviations from the design specifications
    • Evaluate the dependency on specific software tools or technologies
    • Include team collaboration and communication metrics
    • Use a risk management tool to automatically monitor and report KRIs
    • Regularly review and update KRIs based on recent risk assessments

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Implement and monitor KPIs and KRIs

    • Develop a dashboard to visualise KPIs and KRIs
    • Schedule regular team meetings to discuss KPI and KRI metrics
    • Provide training to ensure understanding of KPIs and KRIs
    • Use real-time data for continuous monitoring and adjustments
    • Compare performance against benchmarks and standards
    • Identify trends and patterns in KPI and KRI data
    • Assign accountability for maintaining specific KPIs and KRIs
    • Incorporate feedback loops for constant improvement
    • Invest in technology to enhance data accuracy and reporting
    • Conduct regular reviews to refine indicator effectiveness
performanceriskcad-designerproject-managerdesign-teamrisk-management-team
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Strategies and tactics for focusing on freelance graphic design work

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Build a strong portfolio

    • Curate a portfolio with diverse projects that showcase design skills
    • Include personal projects and hypothetical brand identities
    • Use portfolio platforms like Behance or Adobe Portfolio for online display
    • Regularly update portfolio with new and relevant work
    • Seek feedback from peers and mentors to refine portfolio
    • Create a dedicated personal website for portfolio and contact information
    • Design a unique personal brand for consistency
    • Include case studies to demonstrate design process and problem solving
    • Incorporate client testimonials if available
    • Make portfolio accessible through a downloadable PDF format

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Expand your professional network

    • Join design-related online communities and forums
    • Attend industry events, workshops, and webinars
    • Engage with fellow designers and industry experts on social media
    • Contact alumni from your institution who are in the design field
    • Collaborate on projects with other creatives
    • Seek mentorship opportunities with established designers
    • Utilise LinkedIn to connect with potential clients and collaborators
    • Participate in design challenges and contests
    • Engage in local design meetups and networking events
    • Offer free consultations to build initial client relationships

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Develop a marketing strategy

    • Define target audience for your freelance services
    • Create a social media presence showcasing work and projects
    • Implement a content plan focusing on visual storytelling
    • Engage with potential clients through targeted advertising
    • Create informative blog posts related to graphic design and branding
    • Offer a newsletter with design tips and updates on new projects
    • Collaborate with influencers for wider reach
    • Utilise SEO strategies for increased visibility
    • Develop clear pricing models and service packages
    • Solicit referrals and reviews from satisfied clients
freelance-designnetworkinggraphic-designerbranding-specialistmarketing-teamdesign-team
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Strategies and tactics for launching the Training Academy

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Develop a comprehensive profile

    • Compile a detailed professional bio
    • List credentials, certifications, and awards
    • Document training expertise areas
    • Collect and include testimonials and case studies
    • Design a professional logo and brand identity
    • Arrange a professional photoshoot
    • Publish the portfolio on the training institute's website
    • Create printed materials with the portfolio
    • Update the portfolio on social media profiles
    • Maintain the portfolio by regularly adding new testimonials and achievements

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Enhance online presence and engagement

    • Develop a dedicated webpage on the training institute’s website
    • Publish content regularly including articles, blog posts, and case studies
    • Optimize the website for SEO
    • Enhance LinkedIn profile and engage regularly
    • Create and manage Instagram and Facebook accounts
    • Launch a YouTube channel with training videos and webinars
    • Use targeted ads on social media
    • Implement Google Ads for increased reach
    • Gather and publish customer reviews online
    • Monitor and engage with audience feedback on social media

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Expand networking and build strategic partnerships

    • Schedule speaking engagements at industry events and conferences
    • Organize workshops and webinars
    • Collaborate with brands and organisations in Saudi Arabia
    • Join relevant industry associations
    • Reach out to HR professionals for potential collaborations
    • Attend industry seminars and networking events
    • Develop joint ventures with complementary training providers
    • Establish partnerships with universities and colleges
    • Engage in community events to increase visibility
    • Form alliances with international training institutes
marketingengagementtrainerhr-professionalsmarketing-teamcontent-creation-team
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Strategies and tactics for developing a Strategic Plan for Evangelicals of Body Church and Ministries

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Enhance leadership and governance

    • Conduct leadership training workshops for church council and committee members
    • Develop and implement operational policy documents to guide governance
    • Establish a monitoring and evaluation framework for church activities
    • Organise annual general meetings to review performance and plan ahead
    • Facilitate exchange visits and excursions for leadership development
    • Implement a feedback mechanism for congregants to contribute to governance
    • Strengthen internal communication channels for better information flow
    • Create a conflict resolution desk to address disputes effectively
    • Mobilise resources for leadership and governance activities
    • Evaluate and refine governance structures annually based on feedback

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Strengthen member engagement and participation

    • Organise regular fellowship events to build community among members
    • Facilitate skills development workshops for various ministries
    • Encourage member involvement in strategic plan implementation
    • Develop initiatives to increase youth and family involvement
    • Implement a mentorship programme for new and existing members
    • Conduct surveys to gather member feedback on church activities
    • Organise outreach programmes to increase community involvement
    • Recognise and celebrate volunteers' contributions in church services
    • Create platforms for members to propose and lead new initiatives
    • Regularly evaluate member engagement strategies and adjust as needed

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Expand and improve church infrastructure

    • Develop a comprehensive infrastructural plan for the church
    • Mobilise funds for infrastructural projects through fundraising and donations
    • Begin construction of new church facilities, including a skills centre
    • Upgrade existing facilities to accommodate more congregants
    • Incorporate sustainable energy solutions in infrastructural projects
    • Establish a maintenance plan for church buildings and assets
    • Engage with local authorities for necessary approvals and support
    • Enhance the aesthetic appeal of church grounds with landscaping projects
    • Set up a committee to oversee infrastructural projects and ensure progress
    • Review and update the infrastructural plan annually to meet evolving needs
governanceengagementchurch-leadervolunteer-coordinatorleadership-teaminfrastructure-committee
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How to track your Design strategies and tactics

Having a plan is one thing, sticking to it is another.

Don't fall into the set-and-forget trap. It is important to adopt a weekly check-in process to keep your strategy agile – otherwise this is nothing more than a reporting exercise.

A tool like Tability can also help you by combining AI and goal-setting to keep you on track.

More strategies recently published

We have more templates to help you draft your team goals and OKRs.

Planning resources

OKRs are a great way to translate strategies into measurable goals. Here are a list of resources to help you adopt the OKR framework:

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