“What you see in the portfolio is what you’ll get”

Contrary to the prevailing myth, the notion that “what you see in the portfolio is what you’ll get” is an oversimplification and can be misleading. Relying solely on a portfolio to judge the outcome of a creative project can lead to inaccurate expectations and disappointment.

Here’s why:

• Contextual Differences: Portfolios showcase past work, often in isolated scenarios. The final result is influenced by numerous factors, including client requirements, project objectives, and specific constraints. These contextual nuances may not be apparent in the portfolio, leading to variations in the final deliverable.
• Collaboration and Input: The creative process involves collaboration between the client and the designer or agency. The portfolio may not reflect the full extent of this collaborative effort, including the client’s input, feedback, and revisions. Therefore, the end result may differ from what is displayed in the portfolio.
• Evolving Styles and Trends: Designers and agencies evolve over time, adapting to changing styles and market trends. The work displayed in a portfolio may represent a previous era or a specific design aesthetic. It is essential to consider that creative professionals continue to refine their skills and explore new approaches, potentially resulting in different outcomes.
• Tailored Solutions: Each project is unique, and a portfolio may not capture the level of customization required for a specific client. Designers adapt their approach based on the client’s brand, target audience, and objectives, resulting in tailored solutions that may differ from what is presented in the portfolio.
• Unseen Process and Iterations: Portfolios usually showcase the final polished work, omitting the intermediate stages and iterations. The process of arriving at the final outcome often involves multiple drafts, revisions, and iterations. The portfolio may not provide a comprehensive view of the creative journey undertaken to achieve the final result.

In conclusion, relying solely on a portfolio to predict the outcome of a creative project is a misconception. While portfolios serve as a valuable reference for assessing the skills and style of a designer or agency, they do not guarantee an identical result.

Collaboration, contextual factors, evolving styles, and customization all contribute to variations between what is seen in a portfolio and what is ultimately delivered. Effective communication and clear expectations with the creative professionals are essential to aligning project outcomes with client needs and preferences.