I was reading this post by Máirín Duffy about the Fedora logo redesign process, which I found really enlightening and super interesting. At the end of the post Máirín Duffy talks about what is constructive feedback, which they can relay back into the design process and push the process forward. I found the description about what is helpful feedback as really useful, it is probably applicable to many other “open” or “inclusive” design processes. Here are just some words that really stood out to me at the end of the post, firstly stating feedback as a problem:

The most useful feedback is stated as a problem, not a solution. E.g., if you suggest changing an element, to understand your perspective it’s helpful to know why you seek to change that element. Also note that while “I don’t like X” or “I like Y” is a perfectly valid reaction, it’s not particularly helpful unless you can dig in a little deeper and share with us why you feel that way, what specific technical details of the logo (shape, contrast, color, clarity, connotation, meaning, similarity to something else, etc.) you think triggered the feeling.

Fedora logo redesign update by Máirín Duffy

And then, descriptive feedback vs. feedback by a vote:

Please also note this is not a vote. We would love your feedback in order to iterate and push the designs forward. If this was a vote or poll, we’d set one up using the proper software. We want feedback on why you like, don’t like, or otherwise react to what you see here. We are not going to tally “votes” here and make a decision based on that. Here is an example of a very productive and helpful set of feedback that resulted in a healthy back and forth with a new direction for the designs. Providing feedback on specific components of the logo is great brain food for making it better!

Fedora logo redesign update by Máirín Duffy

Featured Photo by Finn Hackshaw on Unsplash