UIWeb had an interesting article about giving and receiving criticism. This looks to be useful in many areas besides Web design as well.
Synopsis:
Assumptions bad critics make
- There is one universal and objective measure of how good and bad anything is.
- That the critic is in sole possession of the skill in making these measurements.
- Anyone that doesn’t possess this skill (including the creator of the work) is an idiot and should be ridiculed.
- That valid criticisms can and should always be resolved.
How to give critical feedback
- Before you speak, know the goals:
- Good and bad, is not the same as what you like or don’t like.
- Talk as much about what it is, as what it isn’t.
- Try the PNP sandwich (positive negative positive)
Receiving critical feedback
- Shut up. Just shut up and listen.
- Ask clarifying questions.
- Refer back to the goals.
- Ask for what changes you can make that will satisfy the criticism.
Ground Rules
- Take control of your feedback process.
- Pick your partners
- Strive to hear it all, informally and early.
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