Product design involves creating, conceptualising and refining products to meet consumer needs and solve problems. This field spans various industries, from household items to advanced technology, and is crucial for enhancing functionality and improving user experience. 72% of new product ideas come from customer feedback.
Exhibition stand design is a niche within the field of product design. It combines creative and technical skills to deliver exhibition stands that make a lasting impact. To get more information about Prototyping be sure to visit Paraform.
Table of Contents
Understanding Exhibition Stand Design
When preparing for a tradeshow, clients typically focus on selecting the right event, determining the stand size, and defining their primary objective for exhibiting. Often, this objective revolves around launching a new product and showcasing it to potential clients.
To bring these plans to life, clients provide detailed briefs to exhibition stand designers. These professionals are tasked with creating bespoke stand formations and designs that align with the client’s products, services, and branding. The goal is to craft an engaging and visually appealing exhibition space that not only meets but exceeds the client’s expectations, attracting and retaining the attention of attendees. Through a combination of creativity and strategic design, these experts ensure that each stand is a unique representation of the client’s vision and goals.
The Role of an Exhibition Stand Designer
No two days are the same for an Exhibition Stand Designer, given the range in clients and stands. However, the two main aspects of the job role include creativity and technological skills.
Before a prospective client selects an exhibition stand design, they need to see renders of what their stand will look like before committing. Renders showing both the design, and the configuration of a stand are used for client approval. After, client feedback on a final design will be agreed.
Many advanced skills are required to execute these tasks, given the complexity and attention to detail needed. Software commonly used include CAD software and Adobe Suite, so designers must have sufficient knowledge in these types of programs.
Creativity is an important factor for Exhibition Stand Designers. The visuals of an exhibition stand is important, as it must impress and professionally represent a company within an exhibition hall. Designers must think creatively to exceed customer requirements and expectations.
Knowledge of materials, the exhibiting industry, trade show exhibiting requirements, health and safety constraints and more are required. Much of this can be picked up through experience and time at a company.
Educational Pathways
Pursuing a career in exhibition stand design typically involves obtaining a degree in Industrial Design, Architectural Design, Product Design, or a related field. Certifications, specialised training and courses can further enhance a designer’s credentials.
A strong portfolio of previous designs is commonly appreciated and encouraged when looking for a job in this industry. It’s great to have qualifications, but it’s more important to show that you are able to prove how you can actually apply these skills to real projects.
Career Paths and Opportunities
Exhibition stand designers tend to begin their careers at a junior or apprentice level. It takes time to gain experience to excel in the job role. Progression opportunities do exist, particularly through dedication, impressive designs and quick turnaround.
Most degrees related to design have a compulsory placement year, which is very beneficial for experience, 46% of those students are offered graduate roles after completion of their degree. These are highly recommended if you have the opportunity, as you can learn without the initial pressures of performing perfectly.
Challenges and Rewards
Being an exhibition stand designer is a highly rewarding career. It offers significant variety and the chance to see your creative visions come to life. This is especially true at companies like Quadrant2Design, which has an in-house, pre-build process, allowing designers to engage closely with the build of their projects.
Client feedback is a large part of job satisfaction. Clients will leave reviews and emails when happy with the success of their exhibition stand, complementing the design. A compelling exhibition stand design can spark new conversations, generate leads and attract clients to the stand.
Spring and Autumn tend to be the busiest periods for the events industry, due to tradeshow timings. Therefore, the workloads of Exhibition Stand Designers can greatly vary, with these periods being the most hectic.
Exhibitors often take advantage of last-minute opportunities; therefore, effective time management of workloads is essential, as deadlines can be tight.
Case Study: Kajal Halai at Quadrant2Design
Quadrant2Design, an award winning exhibition stand design and build contractor, employs seven exhibition stand designers, all under the expert management of Kajal Halai, the CAD & Technical Manager.
Kajal’s journey with Quadrant2Design began as a university placement student while she was studying Product Design at Bournemouth University. After graduating, she rejoined the company and advanced to the role of senior CAD designer. Her dedication and exceptional design skills soon earned her a promotion to Technical Design Manager.
Kajal’s career progression at Quadrant2Design exemplifies the opportunities available in this field. She became a key figure, training multiple staff members and overseeing design reviews before projects moved to other departments. Her story highlights the potential for growth and achievement in exhibition stand design.
Tips for Aspiring Exhibition Stand Designers
Build a Strong Portfolio
A compelling portfolio is crucial for standing out during the hiring process. Continuously add to your body of work to showcase a wide range of skills and designs. This demonstrates your versatility and ability to adapt to different client expectations.
Master Essential Software
With the rapid evolution of design software, it’s important to be proficient in the tools commonly used in the industry. Familiarise yourself with key programs such as Adobe Suite before applying to companies as this can save valuable training time. Even as you progress in your career, ongoing training and skill enhancement are vital to becoming an expert in exhibition stand design.
Industry Knowledge
Gaining a deep understanding of the industry you’re entering is crucial for any job. This foundational knowledge not only accelerates your learning process but also provides clarity on the purpose and context of your role.
Start by researching various tradeshows and the role of exhibition stands within them. Delve into the diverse range of clients, their products, services, and the unique configurations and features of their exhibition stands. Whenever possible, attend a tradeshow to gain first-hand experience and insights. This immersive approach will give you a comprehensive understanding of the industry, setting you up for success in your role.
Conclusion
Embarking on a career in exhibition stand design offers a unique blend of creativity and technical expertise. While building a strong portfolio and mastering complex software require significant effort, the creative satisfaction and diverse client interactions make it incredibly rewarding.
The key advice for aspiring Exhibition Stand Designers is to simply start. Begin working on your portfolio, enrol in relevant courses, connect with industry professionals and apply for jobs once you have a solid foundation. Dive in, hone your skills and watch your creativity come to life at trade shows worldwide.
