If you work in design, you’ll know that getting more work done in less time is a constant battle. However, if you want to juggle client needs and projects effectively, you will need to learn to become more efficient. It can often feel that there are time-consuming tasks around every corner, but there are also plenty of tools and shortcuts that can help you maximize your time. Here are a few ways to make your design business more efficient.
Switch to perpetual billing
The last thing you need standing in the way of you and a deadline is a billing issue. You need to know that your tools will work seamlessly without interruption, which is why you should switch to Altium for your design needs. Altium’s CircuitStudio is a professional PBC design system that allows you to say no to subscription only licenses. With this software, you can enrich your creative process without worrying about losing your access.
Get familiar with software shortcuts
Chances are, you use your design software every day. Therefore, it makes sense to familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts so that you can maximize every minute of your time. Stay up-to-date with software changes so that you can easily adapt to updates. Utilize tutorial websites to speed up your workflow. As the experts say, it’s not about working hard – it’s about working smart. Learning to use those small pockets of time more effectively will save you hours in the long run.
Organize your workflow
Still working with notebooks and paper diaries? A content management system could help you streamline your work flow and work more collaboratively with the rest of the team. Not only will this make you more efficient, but you’ll also help the environment by going paperless. The key is to be able to find things more quickly and easily, so it’s important to organize your workflow in a way that works for you.
Minimize distractions
There’s a fine line between sitting at your desk and actually working. Every design professional gets distracted at some stage, but when this happens, it is usually time to either take a break or knuckle down. A two-pronged approach is best for tackling distractions: you should create a dedicated workspace where you do nothing but work, and you should “clock in” for that time. Agree that you will work without distractions for a set amount of time (anything from 45 minutes to 3 hours – you will soon find what works best for you), and then allow yourself a break to make a coffee or check your emails.
Know when to stop
Although you should try at all costs to avoid distractions, you also need to allow yourself regular breaks to maximize efficiency. Some experts suggest taking short breaks of 5-15 minutes for every hour of work, while others state that you can reach “perfect productivity” by working for 52 minutes and then taking a break for 17.
It’s surprisingly easy to maximize your time as a design professional, and it doesn’t always require high-tech interventions. By putting some basic practices into place and exercising your discipline, you can streamline your design business and boost productivity.
