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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 developing a Winning Proposal for Strategic Communications RFP

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Showcase Experience and Capability

    • Highlight the agency's track record in supporting high-profile public figures and governmental leaders with case studies
    • Demonstrate established media relations infrastructure with examples of past media engagements and secured top-tier coverage
    • Provide examples of integrated media strategies successfully executed, including narrative development and public storytelling
    • Include testimonials or references from past clients in similar sectors to validate expertise
    • Document the agency's capacity for real-time platform optimization and audience analysis accuracy
    • Outline previous successful crisis communication scenarios managed by the agency
    • Showcase capabilities in high-quality content creation with samples of speeches, op-eds, and multimedia storytelling
    • Detail experience in stakeholder engagement and media relations across local, regional, and international spectrums
    • Provide a portfolio of award-winning or nationally-recognized campaigns with measurable outcomes
    • Explain capacity for continuous advisory services with strategic foresight for enhancing the Chancellor’s executive presence

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Detail a Comprehensive Execution Plan

    • Develop a strategic communications plan with clear objectives, audience targeting, and timelines
    • Create an integrated messaging framework aligned with the Chancellor’s vision and values
    • Design a dynamic social media strategy with platform-specific tactics and engagement plans
    • Outline a tailored media relations strategy for local, regional, and global outlets
    • Prepare a crisis communications plan with protocols, key messages, and rapid response templates
    • Propose a solution for high-impact campaign development and execution highlighting innovation
    • Detail a method for conducting regular perception audits and stakeholder mapping
    • Produce a comprehensive plan for executive presence enhancement at key events
    • Include a digital and media benchmarking analysis against global best practices
    • Describe the process for periodic review meetings to align execution with changing priorities

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Deliver Insight-Driven Recommendations

    • Provide insights from benchmarking executive communications practices globally
    • Present a detailed GAP analysis with opportunities for narrative enhancement
    • Offer data-driven recommendations for content omnipresence across platforms
    • Suggest refinements in digital engagement tactics using performance monitoring tools
    • Propose innovative ideas for visual content to boost narrative impact
    • Recommend high-profile media placements and thought leadership contributions
    • Schedule regular updates and brainstorming sessions with the HCT’s team
    • Advise on audience segmentation backed by analytics for targeted communication
    • Plan strategic partnerships with influencers to extend digital reach
    • Prepare presentations on potential narrative-shaping campaigns for UAE's global positioning
strategic-communicationsproposal-developmentcommunications-strategistmedia-relations-specialistcontent-creation-teamcrisis-management-team
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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 developing a Strategic Framework for Improving Operational Performance of Low-Cost Housing

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Enhance design parameters

    • Utilise locally available materials for sustainable design solutions
    • Implement passive architectural strategies for natural lighting and ventilation
    • Incorporate renewable energy technologies like solar panels to enhance energy efficiency
    • Design flexible floor plans and multifunctional rooms for improved spatial efficiency
    • Prioritise thermal comfort through insulation and energy-efficient heating and cooling systems
    • Integrate local architectural elements and public art to enhance cultural relevance
    • Ensure soundproofing through the use of double-glazed windows and acoustic insulation
    • Create large windows and skylights to minimise reliance on artificial lighting
    • Include operable vents to improve natural ventilation and air quality
    • Conduct participatory design sessions to reflect actual needs and preferences

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Improve construction quality

    • Use high-quality and durable construction materials to ensure longevity
    • Establish rigorous quality control mechanisms during construction phases
    • Ensure the ability to detect and prevent leakages through effective waterproofing
    • Incorporate fire-resistant design elements like alarms and extinguishers
    • Address moisture and mold issues with proper construction techniques
    • Enhance communication and management during the construction process
    • Use sound construction practices to prevent poor workmanship
    • Provide training for construction workers on best building practices
    • Ensure timely interventions in case of deviations from quality standards
    • Facilitate collaboration between stakeholders to share best practices

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Optimise maintenance protocols

    • Implement proactive and routine maintenance schedules to ensure longevity
    • Address maintenance cost challenges by budgeting and planning effectively
    • Prioritise cleaning and maintenance to ensure indoor air quality
    • Ensure reliable water and power supply access, especially on upper floors
    • Engage residents in self-management and upkeep of properties
    • Develop a system for timely response to repair requests and issues
    • Facilitate workshops to educate residents on personal maintenance practices
    • Ensure regular inspections to detect potential issues early
    • Establish partnerships with service providers for reliable maintenance support
    • Create a community maintenance fund to manage and finance upkeep
operational-performancesustainable-designconstruction-managermaintenance-coordinatordesign-teamquality-control-team
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Strategies and tactics for improving Operational Performance of Low-Cost Housing

  • ⛳️ Strategy 1: Incorporate sustainable design practices

    • Utilise locally available and eco-friendly materials
    • Implement passive architectural designs to enhance natural lighting
    • Incorporate renewable energy technologies like solar panels
    • Design flexible floor plans to maximize space usability
    • Include large windows and skylights for better ventilation
    • Add landscaping and public art to enhance aesthetics
    • Implement shading devices for improved thermal comfort
    • Facilitate community participation in design workshops
    • Ensure designs align with occupants’ cultural and functional needs
    • Conduct design reviews to ensure continuous improvements

  • ⛳️ Strategy 2: Implement robust maintenance protocols

    • Conduct regular maintenance checks and repairs
    • Ensure timely interventions to prevent damage escalation
    • Use high-quality construction materials for durability
    • Maintain records of maintenance activities for accountability
    • Train residents in basic maintenance tasks
    • Set up a responsive maintenance request system
    • Implement preventive maintenance to reduce costs
    • Schedule regular inspections for sanitary and electrical systems
    • Address indoor air quality issues through regular cleaning
    • Collaborate with professional maintenance services for expertise

  • ⛳️ Strategy 3: Optimise spatial planning and construction quality

    • Design multifunctional rooms and adequate storage solutions
    • Incorporate acoustic insulation to mitigate noise pollution
    • Prioritise room sizes and layout to enhance comfort
    • Ensure effective communication during construction processes
    • Implement rigorous quality control during construction phases
    • Use durable materials suited to environmental conditions
    • Address fire safety with alarms and fire-resistant materials
    • Facilitate stakeholder consultations to align with needs
    • Optimize layouts for natural lighting and ventilation
    • Ensure continuous improvement through post-occupancy evaluations
sustainable-designmaintenance-protocolsarchitectmaintenance-technicianconstruction-teamdesign-team
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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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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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