{"id":7595,"date":"2026-11-12T13:26:43","date_gmt":"2026-11-12T13:26:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/?p=7595"},"modified":"2026-11-12T13:26:45","modified_gmt":"2026-11-12T13:26:45","slug":"design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/","title":{"rendered":"Design Critique Template: Free Template and How to Use It"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#What_Is_a_Design_Critique\" >What Is a Design Critique?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Critique_vs_Opinion\" >Critique vs. Opinion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Why_Use_a_Template\" >Why Use a Template<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Who_Should_Join_a_Critique\" >Who Should Join a Critique<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Free_Design_Critique_Template_Copy_and_Use\" >Free Design Critique Template (Copy and Use)<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Part_1_Design_Brief\" >Part 1: Design Brief<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Part_2_Feedback_Framework\" >Part 2: Feedback Framework<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Part_3_Scoring_Rubric\" >Part 3: Scoring Rubric<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Part_4_Action_Log\" >Part 4: Action Log<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#How_to_Use_the_Design_Critique_Template_Step_by_Step\" >How to Use the Design Critique Template: Step by Step<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Step_1_Set_the_Context\" >Step 1: Set the Context<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Step_2_Choose_the_Right_Participants\" >Step 2: Choose the Right Participants<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Step_3_Present_the_Design\" >Step 3: Present the Design<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Step_4_Gather_Feedback_Using_the_Framework\" >Step 4: Gather Feedback Using the Framework<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Step_5_Score_and_Compare\" >Step 5: Score and Compare<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Step_6_Validate_With_Real_Users\" >Step 6: Validate With Real Users<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Step_7_Turn_Feedback_Into_Action\" >Step 7: Turn Feedback Into Action<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Design_Critique_Example\" >Design Critique Example<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Example_SaaS_Dashboard\" >Example: SaaS Dashboard<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Common_Design_Critique_Mistakes_to_Avoid\" >Common Design Critique Mistakes to Avoid<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Best_Practices_for_Better_Critiques\" >Best Practices for Better Critiques<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#When_to_Get_Expert_Help\" >When to Get Expert Help<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#What_should_a_design_critique_template_include\" >What should a design critique template include?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#How_long_should_a_design_critique_take\" >How long should a design critique take?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Who_should_lead_a_design_critique\" >Who should lead a design critique?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#What_is_the_difference_between_a_design_critique_and_a_design_review\" >What is the difference between a design critique and a design review?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good design rarely comes from one person working alone. It comes from honest, structured feedback. But unstructured feedback often turns into vague opinions like \u201cI don\u2019t like the color.\u201d A <strong>design critique template<\/strong> keeps the conversation focused on goals, users, and evidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This guide gives you a free, copy-ready template and a step-by-step method for running critiques that make designs better. It works for UI designers, UX teams, product managers, and agencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_a_Design_Critique\"><\/span><strong>What Is a Design Critique?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A design critique is a structured discussion where a designer presents work and others give feedback based on shared goals. It is different from a design approval meeting. The aim is to improve the work, not to vote on it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Critique_vs_Opinion\"><\/span><strong>Critique vs. Opinion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Opinion<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Critique<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>\u201cI don\u2019t like this layout.\u201d<\/td><td>\u201cThe layout buries the main button, so users may miss the primary action.\u201d<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\u201cMake it pop more.\u201d<\/td><td>\u201cThe headline and body text have similar weight, which weakens the visual hierarchy.\u201d<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>\u201cIt feels off.\u201d<\/td><td>\u201cThe spacing is inconsistent between cards, which breaks the pattern.\u201d<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Use_a_Template\"><\/span><strong>Why Use a Template<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A template keeps every critique consistent and productive. It helps you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Stay focused<\/strong> on the problem the design is solving<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reduce bias<\/strong> by tying feedback to goals and users<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Save time<\/strong> with a repeatable agenda<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Include everyone<\/strong> so quieter voices are heard<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Track decisions<\/strong> so feedback becomes action<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_Should_Join_a_Critique\"><\/span><strong>Who Should Join a Critique<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Designers presenting and reviewing work<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Product managers who own the goals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Developers who judge feasibility<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Researchers who bring user insight<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stakeholders who need context, not final approval<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Free_Design_Critique_Template_Copy_and_Use\"><\/span><strong>Free Design Critique Template (Copy and Use)<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This template has four parts: a design brief, a feedback framework, a scoring rubric, and an action log. Copy each into Figma, Notion, Google Docs, or a spreadsheet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Part_1_Design_Brief\"><\/span><strong>Part 1: Design Brief<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The presenter fills this in before the session.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Field<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>What to Record<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Project and stage<\/strong><\/td><td>Name of the design and its maturity (early concept, mid-fidelity, final polish)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Goal<\/strong><\/td><td>The business or user problem being solved<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Target user<\/strong><\/td><td>Who the design is for and their key needs<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Constraints<\/strong><\/td><td>Technical, brand, time, or budget limits<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Feedback wanted<\/strong><\/td><td>The specific questions you want answered<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Out of scope<\/strong><\/td><td>What not to critique at this stage<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Part_2_Feedback_Framework\"><\/span><strong>Part 2: Feedback Framework<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reviewers use this structure to keep comments clear and useful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Step<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Prompt<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Example<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Observe<\/strong><\/td><td>What do I see?<\/td><td>\u201cThe call-to-action sits below the fold.\u201d<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Relate<\/strong><\/td><td>How does it connect to the goal?<\/td><td>\u201cUsers need to start signup quickly.\u201d<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Suggest<\/strong><\/td><td>What could improve it?<\/td><td>\u201cTry moving the button above the fold.\u201d<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Question<\/strong><\/td><td>What am I unsure about?<\/td><td>\u201cWas this placement tested?\u201d<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Part_3_Scoring_Rubric\"><\/span><strong>Part 3: Scoring Rubric<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rate each area from 1 to 5, then add short notes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Criteria<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>What to Check<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Score (1-5)<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Notes<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Clarity<\/strong><\/td><td>Is the purpose obvious in a few seconds?<\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Visual hierarchy<\/strong><\/td><td>Does the eye land on what matters first?<\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Consistency<\/strong><\/td><td>Do colors, type, and spacing follow the system?<\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Usability<\/strong><\/td><td>Can users complete key tasks easily?<\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Accessibility<\/strong><\/td><td>Contrast, text size, and keyboard and screen reader support<\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Brand fit<\/strong><\/td><td>Does it match the tone and identity?<\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Total<\/strong><\/td><td><\/td><td><strong>\/30<\/strong><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Part_4_Action_Log\"><\/span><strong>Part 4: Action Log<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Feedback<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Decision<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Owner<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Deadline<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><\/td><td>Accept \/ Explore \/ Decline<\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Accept \/ Explore \/ Decline<\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td>Accept \/ Explore \/ Decline<\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Use_the_Design_Critique_Template_Step_by_Step\"><\/span><strong>How to Use the Design Critique Template: Step by Step<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_1_Set_the_Context\"><\/span><strong>Step 1: Set the Context<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Share the brief before the meeting. Reviewers should know the goal, the user, and the questions being asked. Without context, people default to personal taste.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_Choose_the_Right_Participants\"><\/span><strong>Step 2: Choose the Right Participants<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Invite three to six people. Too few limits perspective, and too many slows the session down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Roles to Assign<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Presenter:<\/strong> walks through the design and listens<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Facilitator:<\/strong> keeps time and the discussion on track<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Note-taker:<\/strong> logs feedback in the action log<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reviewers:<\/strong> give structured feedback<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_3_Present_the_Design\"><\/span><strong>Step 3: Present the Design<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep the presentation short, about five minutes. Explain the problem, the user, and the key decisions. Then stop talking. The presenter\u2019s job in a critique is mostly to listen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_4_Gather_Feedback_Using_the_Framework\"><\/span><strong>Step 4: Gather Feedback Using the Framework<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask reviewers to use the Observe, Relate, Suggest, Question structure. This turns \u201cI don\u2019t like it\u201d into feedback the designer can use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ground Rules<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Critique the work, not the person<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tie comments to goals and users<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stay within the feedback requested<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Offer reasons, not just preferences<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Share positives as well as problems<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_5_Score_and_Compare\"><\/span><strong>Step 5: Score and Compare<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use the rubric to rate the design. Scores give you a quick snapshot and make it easy to compare versions across rounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To back up scores with expert analysis, a professional <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/services\/ux-audit\"><strong>UX audit services<\/strong><\/a> review can benchmark your design against usability best practices and spot issues the team missed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_6_Validate_With_Real_Users\"><\/span><strong>Step 6: Validate With Real Users<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Critique shows what the team thinks. Users show what actually works. Where feedback conflicts or assumptions are unclear, test the design with real people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pairing critique with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/services\/ux-research\"><strong>UX research services<\/strong><\/a> such as usability tests and interviews settles debates with evidence instead of opinion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_7_Turn_Feedback_Into_Action\"><\/span><strong>Step 7: Turn Feedback Into Action<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">End the session by sorting feedback in the action log. Mark each item as accepted, worth exploring, or declined, and assign an owner. The designer keeps the final call, but each decision should be explained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For bigger challenges, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/design-thinking-workshops\"><strong>design thinking workshops<\/strong><\/a> help teams explore alternatives together and agree on a direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Design_Critique_Example\"><\/span><strong>Design Critique Example<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Example_SaaS_Dashboard\"><\/span><strong>Example: SaaS Dashboard<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A team reviews a new analytics dashboard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Feedback<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Reasoning<\/strong><\/th><th><strong>Decision<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Key metrics are the same size as secondary charts<\/td><td>Weak hierarchy makes the main insight hard to find<\/td><td>Accept<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Use a dark theme<\/td><td>Possible fit for power users, but untested<\/td><td>Explore<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Add more decorative icons<\/td><td>Adds noise without helping tasks<\/td><td>Decline<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Result:<\/strong> The designer enlarged the key metrics and simplified the layout. The next critique scored higher on clarity and hierarchy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Design_Critique_Mistakes_to_Avoid\"><\/span><strong>Common Design Critique Mistakes to Avoid<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Giving solutions too early.<\/strong> Describe the problem first, then suggest fixes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Critiquing without context.<\/strong> Feedback needs a goal and a user.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Letting the loudest voice dominate.<\/strong> Use the facilitator to balance the room.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Treating feedback as orders.<\/strong> The designer weighs input against the brief.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ignoring accessibility.<\/strong> Include it in every review, not just the final one.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Skipping follow-up.<\/strong> Feedback without owners and deadlines gets lost.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_Practices_for_Better_Critiques\"><\/span><strong>Best Practices for Better Critiques<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Keep sessions to 30 to 45 minutes<\/strong> so focus stays high.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Critique early and often<\/strong> instead of waiting for final polish.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Match feedback to the design stage.<\/strong> Don\u2019t debate pixels in a rough concept.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Record decisions<\/strong> so the team remembers why choices were made.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Build a critique habit<\/strong> with a regular weekly or biweekly slot.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_to_Get_Expert_Help\"><\/span><strong>When to Get Expert Help<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your team lacks the time or experience to run effective reviews, an outside partner can help. A team offering <a href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/services\/ui-ux-design-services\"><strong>UI\/UX design services<\/strong><\/a> can review your designs, run user tests, and redesign the flows that need work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_should_a_design_critique_template_include\"><\/span><strong>What should a design critique template include?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At minimum: a design brief, a feedback structure, a scoring rubric, and an action log with owners and deadlines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_long_should_a_design_critique_take\"><\/span><strong>How long should a design critique take?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thirty to forty-five minutes works well for most designs. Break larger projects into several shorter sessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_should_lead_a_design_critique\"><\/span><strong>Who should lead a design critique?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A neutral facilitator, not the presenter. This keeps the discussion balanced and on time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_difference_between_a_design_critique_and_a_design_review\"><\/span><strong>What is the difference between a design critique and a design review?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A critique focuses on improving the work through discussion. A review is often a checkpoint for approval or sign-off. Many teams use both at different stages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A strong <strong>design critique template<\/strong> replaces vague opinions with focused, goal-driven feedback. Share the brief, use a clear feedback structure, score the work, and turn every comment into an action with an owner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Copy the four-part template above and use it in your next review. Your designs, and your team conversations, will improve quickly.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Good design rarely comes from one person working alone. It comes from honest, structured feedback. But unstructured feedback often turns into vague opinions like \u201cI don\u2019t like the color.\u201d A design critique template keeps the conversation focused on goals, users, and evidence. This guide gives you a free, copy-ready template and a step-by-step method for&hellip; <a class=\"more-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.originux.com\/resources\/blog\/design-critique-template-free-template-and-how-to-use-it\/\">Continue reading <span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Design Critique Template: Free Template and How to Use It<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-7595","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-blog","entry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Design Critique Template: Free Template + How to Use It (2026)<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Get a free design critique template with a feedback framework, scoring rubric, and action log. 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