How to Run a Design Critique Without the Drama

Set the frame first

Before showing anything, I state the goal, the constraints, and the type of feedback I want. “Does this flow make sense?” gets better answers than “What do you think?” A clear frame keeps the conversation on the problem instead of on personal taste.

Separate observations from opinions

I ask reviewers to describe what they see before saying what they would change. “The button is easy to miss” is useful; “make it bigger” is a guess at a solution. Observations give the designer room to find the best fix.

• Start with what is working, and why.

• Ask questions before offering solutions.

• Tie every comment to the goal of the design.

• End with clear next steps and owners.

Close the loop

After the session I send a short summary of decisions and open questions. It keeps everyone aligned and shows that feedback leads somewhere, which is what makes people want to give it.