Design is subjective. As designers, we know the continual frustration of useless feedback. The Drawing Room aims to provide high-quality, respectful, professional feedback of a quality level you can't find anywhere else.

Here's some ground rules for critiquers.

• Don't be vague. Designers will only be frustrated by a general critique that doesn't give them information to work with.

  Bad: "The design feels cold."

  Good: "The design feels cold. This blue is very green, almost icy. If you'd like more warmth in the design, try a warmer hue."

• Don't get personal. If you don't like a specific design style, try to focus on critiquing larger elements of the design (readability? usability? color theory? grid?) instead.

  Bad: "I really don't like big typefaces on sites. Maybe make it smaller?"

  Good: "The large typeface really makes your message clear, but dominates your logo. You might want to consider reducing the typeface size for branding reasons."

• Do listen to the designer before you start critiquing. The designer may only need help with a specific aspect of their work. Make sure you know what they need help with before you begin your critique, and don't give unasked-for advice. This is particularly true in situations where designers have little to no control over look-and-feel.
• Don't belabor the point. If a designer doesn't want to implement your suggestions, don't repeat yourself. Your advice is valuable and welcome, but unfortunately, not all design changes can be acted on.