If you’ve ever worked with a designer for a website, a marketing campaign, or a print project, you’ve likely heard the term “comp” mentioned. But what exactly is a comp, and why is it an essential part of the design process?
Understanding comps will help you review designs effectively, give clear feedback, and ensure you get a final product that aligns with your vision. This guide will walk you through what a comp is, how it works, how to review one, and how to process your options as a client.
What is a Comp?
A comp (short for comprehensive layout) is a detailed, polished mockup of a design project that provides a realistic preview of the final product before it goes into full production.
Comps are commonly used in graphic, print, and web design to communicate a project’s layout, typography, colors, and overall aesthetics. They help bridge the gap between conceptual ideas and finished designs, allowing for feedback and refinements before anything is finalized.
Why Do Designers Use Comps?
- To provide a visual preview before committing to final production.
- To refine details and avoid costly mistakes later.
- To collaborate with clients and ensure the design aligns with expectations.
- To allow structured feedback, making revisions more efficient.
A comp is not yet the final design, but it’s often close enough to give a realistic look at the final outcome.
How Does a Comp Work?
A comp is a key step in the design process and typically follows these stages:
Initial Concepts & Research
- The designer gathers project details like brand guidelines, color preferences, typography choices, and layout ideas.
- Early-stage rough sketches, wireframes, or mood boards may be developed.
- These initial concepts help set the direction before moving into a full comp.
Creating the Comp
- A more refined design is developed, incorporating real images, text, colors, and branding elements.
- This might be a static image of how the webpage will look in web design, often created in tools like Figma, Adobe XD, or Sketch.
- In print design, this could be a PDF or InDesign file showing how the printed piece will appear when finished.
- The comp is a polished digital version ready for approval in graphic design, such as logos or social media graphics.
Presenting the Comp for Client Review
- The designer shares the comp with the client, often in a PDF, Figma file, or web preview.
- Notes may be included to explain design choices, highlight key elements, or ask for specific feedback.
Receiving Feedback & Making Revisions
- Clients provide feedback on layout, color, typography, imagery, and overall feel.
- Designers make necessary adjustments based on the feedback.
- This process may go through multiple revisions until the client is satisfied.
Final Approval & Production
- Once the comp is approved, the project moves into production:
- In web design, developers begin coding.
- In print design, final files are prepared for printing.
- In graphic design, assets are exported in required formats for delivery.
How to Review a Comp as a Client
Reviewing a comp properly is crucial for ensuring the design meets your goals. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to evaluate a comp and provide helpful feedback.
Step 1: Look at the Big Picture
- Does the overall design match your brand identity?
- Does it communicate the message or emotion you want to convey?
- Does it look polished and professional?
Step 2: Examine the Key Design Elements
Layout & Structure
- Is the hierarchy clear? (Are the most essential elements standing out?)
- Is there enough white space to make the design easy to read?
- Are images and text well-balanced?
Colors & Typography
- Do the colors match your brand palette?
- Are the fonts easy to read and consistent with your branding?
- Is there enough contrast for readability?
Images & Graphics
- Are images high quality and relevant?
- Are illustrations, icons, or graphics consistent with your style?
Functionality (for Web Design)
- Does the navigation make sense?
- Would the buttons and calls to action (CTAs) be apparent to users?
- Does the layout work well for different screen sizes (desktop, tablet, mobile)?
Step 3: Provide Clear, Constructive Feedback
When giving feedback, be specific and focus on what works and needs improvement.
✅ Good Feedback Example:
“I love the color scheme, but can we try a darker blue for the call-to-action button to make it stand out more?”
❌ Unclear Feedback Example:
“I don’t like it. Can you make it pop more?” (What does “pop” mean in this context?)
Tips for better feedback:
- Be clear and direct (e.g., “Can we adjust the spacing between these sections?”)
- Reference specific elements (e.g., “The font for the headings looks too thin.”)
- Prioritize changes (e.g., “The imagery is great, but the layout feels a bit crowded.”)
Step 4: Ask Questions If Needed
If something isn’t clear, ask your designer!
- Why did you choose this font?
- Would this color scheme work better in print?
- How will this layout adjust for mobile users?
Good designers will explain their choices and adjust based on your needs.
Processing Your Options & Making a Decision
Sometimes, designers will present multiple comps. Here’s how to make the best choice:
- Compare different versions side by side – Which one best represents your brand?
- Consider your audience – Will this design resonate with them?
- Think about longevity – Will this design still work a year from now?
- Gather feedback from your team – If needed, involve key stakeholders.
- Trust your gut but also trust the designer – They bring expertise, but it’s your brand.
Once you’ve reviewed everything, approve the best option, and the designer will move the project forward!
Final Thoughts: Why Comps Matter
Comps are critical to the design process. They save time and money, prevent misunderstandings, and ensure the final product meets your expectations.
By understanding a comp, how to review it, and how to process design options effectively, you’ll be better equipped to collaborate with designers and achieve the best results.
Need Expert Design Help?
At Giant, we specialize in graphic, print, and web design that makes an impact. Let’s chat if you need expert guidance on your next design project!
👉 Visit us at giantcreates.com to get started.
