Working with Design Clients

A practical manual for working with real world clients and briefs in the university design studio setting.

Working with clients is one of the most valuable ways for students to develop their
professional design practice skills. This is a practical guide to working on real-life briefs
in the design studio—how to collaborate with and connect with communities, find and
retain clients, and manage real-world design problems. Using tools and frameworks
based on years of research and experience, the book is divided into four sections:

Why (industry connections, experiential learning, personal empowerment)
What (engaging with communities, client work, structure)
Who (work roles, client relationships, articulating value)
How (launching, logistics, planning)

The final section of the book covers information for those expanding into student-led
studios and includes information on strategies, financing, and how to plan for the future.

Supported by case studies and interviews, this is an essential guide to working with real
projects and clients, for both students and instructors alike.