Self-Guided Course

Communicating and Implementing Design Ideas

Successful Design initiatives require more than good ideas—they need clear communication, stakeholder advocacy, and practical implementation strategies.

This course explores the visual, financial, and strategic aspects of Design communication and implementation. You will gain practical tools to effectively communicate design ideas, advocate for smart solutions, and implement projects in ways that align with stakeholder needs, policy guidelines, and budget constraints. By leveraging budgeting strategies, you’ll learn how to balance creative vision with financial feasibility, ensuring that small-scale projects remain achievable.

Time: 30 minutes Skill Level: Starting Formal Learning: 100 points

A construction site sign showing the future location of the Brooks Street Greenspace in Sheridan, Wyoming. The sign includes a colorful illustrated rendering of the planned park, featuring pathways, lush landscaping, a pergola seating area, and lighting. Text on the sign outlines the project objective and construction schedule, with logos from local partners and planning organizations. — Sheridan, Wyoming. Photo by Downtown Sheridan Association.

Overview

Course Outline

What You Will Learn

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Develop strategies to gain stakeholder buy-in and advocacy for Design initiatives.
Identify budgeting strategies for small-scale design projects.
Use sketches, mock-ups, and digital tools to present design ideas effectively.
Address resistance to change using data-driven arguments.
Recognize the role of mentoring and knowledge-sharing in Design leadership.

Section 1: Introduction
- 1.1 Welcome
- 1.2 Course Design & Engagement
- 1.3 Meet Your Subject Matter Expert(s)
Section 2: Communicating and Implementing Design Ideas
- Communicating and Implementing Design Ideas
Section 3: Conclusion
- 3.1 Final Takeaways
- 3.2 Main Street Convo
- 3.3 Survey