If you're in the market for a design manager for your project, there will be a number of things you need to consider in order to make the best choice. It can seem very overwhelming to allocate a role with such key responsibilities, however we know this better than most, so we've used our experience and expertise to put this article together, with clear, well-structured information to help you figure out how to select the best person for the role.

Figuring out what skill set your project needs

When you're choosing a design manager, figuring out what your project needs is the first task on your list. This is important because every project is different, which is why you need to identify the specific skills and experience you are going to be looking for in your design manager related to the job. Needless to say, any design manager needs to have adaptability to successfully undertake diverse tasks in different settings and contexts. That makes this a key element upon which to assess potential candidates.

In a similar capacity, you have the responsibility to share the skills you've identified as necessary with the people you're looking to hire, so that they can make a fair and realistic assessment of the project, both to establish if they're a good fit as well as in the interest of the project's success. This begins the process of choosing a design manager with transparency and honesty, which is the foundation of a strong working relationship.

So, what discussions should you have with your potential design manager?

Communication

You should ask any prospective design manager “How do you tend to communicate with your clients?” because the basis of success is you and your designs being well represented and enacted. It’s vital that you feel supported, informed, and understood, so bear this in mind when you’re choosing.

You also want to ask, “How do you intend to communicate with suppliers and contractors?” This person is going to be the backbone of the interaction throughout the project, which means you have to be able to count on them to maintain good communication and strong interpersonal skills across the board. From you as the employer, to the temporary trades and the people who work more closely on site – a mutual level of respect is vital.

It’s also worth asking their availability. You want a design manager who’s engaged, up to date and interactive, someone who has a strong presence and knows everything that’s going on. The bigger the project, the more important this becomes and the easier it becomes to resolve any issues, so availability is important.

Work Process

It’s critical to understand how they plan to go about the project, because this will impact you, the others involved and the whole project as a result. Ask explicitly, “What’s your work process?” and look for an answer that shows clear, organised structure and good communication.

Experience

To build a picture of the prospective design managers’ skills and experience, ask, “What type of projects have you been responsible for?” This will show the level of capability based on previous projects, and also help to establish if they’re right for your specific project, because projects in this sector can vary vastly, so relevant experience goes a long way.

Portfolios

Design Managers have portfolios, so ask to see them to understand their type of work and what they've delivered in the past. See if their credentials fit your own brief and your designs, because working with someone who understands what you want and has a proven track record within this field, is a huge benefit.

Complex Projects

Another good question for prospective design managers is, “What's the most complex project they have worked on and why was it complex?” The idea behind this is that it should help to understand their way of thinking, identify what they see as challenges, but also how they approach and respond to them, and again, understand their experience.

Referrals

History can tell you a lot, but also shows you if the design manager matches up to what they’ve achieved in the past. Check, “Are there previous clients that can provide testimonials should you hire them?” and be wary of a negative response.

Overall, it’s easy to see why an interior design manager is so integral to any project when you have an understanding of what they do and the skills involved in their role. By asking the right questions and assessing the candidates’ abilities in this capacity, it goes a very long way to help you decide how to choose a design manager to benefit your project. Remember – a lot of design managers can be good, but they also have to be right for you as well as your project specifically, so use the information you have, and trust your gut!

If you’re interested in knowing more about how SP3 London can support you across your project when it comes to Design Management, get in touch with us today.