When should a project be named during the design process?

Naming a project during the design process at the creation stage is crucial because it establishes a clear identity and direction for the project from the outset. This early naming helps to define the goals, themes, and intended audience of the design work. By giving the project a name at the beginning, designers can encapsulate the essence of the project, which can influence creative decisions and strategies as the work progresses.

This approach fosters a strong brand or thematic consistency throughout the design process, allowing all team members and stakeholders to have a shared understanding of what the project aims to achieve. It also aids in organizing ideas, resources, and timelines around that central theme, which can lead to a more cohesive final product. Naming the project later, such as after completion or at the time of publishing, would not provide these benefits and could lead to a disconnect between the design intentions and the final output.