What does a design brief typically outline?

A design brief typically outlines the objectives, audience, and scope of a design project because it serves as a foundational document that guides the entire design process. By clearly defining the project’s goals, target audience, and the overall scope, the design brief helps ensure that everyone involved—the designer, clients, and stakeholders—shares a common understanding of what the project aims to achieve. This alignment is crucial for making informed decisions throughout the development process and keeping the project on track.

While layouts, color choices, and software tools are essential aspects of design work, they are often determined later in the process, once the primary goals and audience are established through the design brief. The brief acts as a roadmap for designers to follow, which is essential for effective communication and project execution.