Early on in a project, I took the time to walk a client through the design process. Discussing the different stages helped them understand the value of iteration and feedback. This set clear expectations and a realistic timeline, leading to smoother communication and a project we both enjoyed delivering on time. In fact, by the end, the client even commented on how much they appreciated the transparency and how it relieved some of their initial anxieties about the unknown.
Every single time, I mean every single time. This isn't a bad thing for me, just a part of design life. It typically affects the length of time the project will take because clients will think, "wham bam" it's complete. And.. then once you discuss the design process, which includes budgets, reviews, ordering, timelines, delays and allowances, (not to mention the actual creative process/time) they often will step back for a hot second and think about everything. They always move forward, but with an understanding and appreciation of the design process and designers.
I once worked with a client who expected instant design results without understanding the iterative process. I scheduled a meeting to outline the design steps, explaining the importance of research, concept development, and feedback loops. This discussion clarified their role in providing input and waiting for each phase's completion. As a result, the client became more patient and involved, which improved communication and led to a more refined final product. Ultimately, this educational approach fostered a collaborative relationship, yielding a design aligned with their vision while meeting project timelines.