There’s a good chance that if you’re browsing a designer’s portfolio and notice a project missing, it might leave you wondering why it didn’t make the cut. In fact, the majority of the projects I’ve worked on are not displayed on my site. This could be because I was still learning at the time, and as my work has evolved, I no longer want old work to represent my portfolio. It could also be because some clients were so adamant about their ideas that they refused to listen to my expertise, resulting in a finished product that I simply don’t feel proud of, even though the client was satisfied.
As a designer who values transparency and the integrity of my work, I believe it’s important to shed some light on the reasons why certain projects might not be displayed on a designer's website.
Confidentiality Agreements
Many designers work on projects that require a level of discretion. Confidentiality agreements, or NDAs, are common in the industry, especially when dealing with high-profile clients, new product launches, or proprietary technology. In these cases, designers are legally bound to keep the details of the project private, which means they can’t showcase the work in their portfolio.
Creative Differences
Not every project turns out as planned. Sometimes, a designer and a client may have differing creative visions. The final result might be something the designer isn’t fully satisfied with or feels doesn’t represent their best work. Rather than display a project that doesn’t align with their aesthetic or standards, a designer might choose to leave it off their website.
Client's Request
In some cases, a client may specifically request that their project not be included in a designer’s portfolio. This can happen for various reasons, such as wanting to keep their branding strategy under wraps or preferring a low-key approach to their business. As a designer, respecting the client’s wishes is paramount, even if it means not showcasing the work publicly.
Outdated Work
Design trends evolve quickly, and what was cutting-edge a few years ago might feel outdated today. Designers often curate their portfolios to reflect their current style and expertise. Projects that were completed years ago might not accurately represent a designer’s skills or the direction they’re currently taking in their career, so these older works may be left out.
Unfinished or Incomplete Projects
Not every project reaches completion. Sometimes, due to unforeseen circumstances, a project might be halted or abandoned altogether. Whether it’s a budget issue, a change in the client’s direction, or other challenges, an unfinished project typically doesn’t make it to the portfolio, as it doesn’t represent a completed piece of work.
Not the Right Fit
Designers often take on a variety of projects, some of which might not align with their niche or the type of work they want to attract in the future. For instance, a web designer specializing in sleek, modern designs might not include a project that involved a very traditional or rustic aesthetic, even if the project was successful. Portfolios are carefully curated to attract the right clients, so designers often showcase work that best represents the type of projects they want to take on.
Revisions Beyond Control
Occasionally, a project may undergo so many revisions that the final product looks very different from the designer’s original vision. If the end result no longer aligns with the designer’s standards or brand, they may opt not to display it. This ensures that their portfolio remains a true reflection of their capabilities and style.
It’s Not Just About Aesthetics
Lastly, not all great work translates well into a portfolio piece. Some projects might be heavily focused on backend development, SEO optimization, or user experience rather than visual design. While these aspects are crucial to the success of the project, they can be challenging to present visually in a portfolio, leading designers to exclude them.
In conclusion, a designer’s portfolio is a curated collection that reflects their best work, current skills, and the type of projects they want to attract. Designer's choices in portfolio curation are influenced by many valid reasons, ranging from legal restrictions to personal and professional preferences. The absence of a project doesn’t diminish its value or the effort that went into it — it simply means it wasn’t the right fit for the portfolio.
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