Design, Design, Design......

The importance of design is so important in society today. We buy Apple computers because of design (and functionality), we buy cars, houses and just about everything because of the design. In addition, patients buy dentistry because of design, of chair, surgery, reception, website.....the importance of design is essential in dental practice today.

When we set up our first wandsworth practice i was quite hesitant in getting a designer involved, I perceived it to be expensive, however, we made the right decision by getting the right design agency involved. Any notions that i could do the job of a designer were quickly dispelled by realising these guys were excellent at their job.

From the way the light comes in to the practice, to the position of the reception desk, they all need to be considered in creating an ambiance that customers want to experience. Getting the right designers is essential in doing this

Well what is a right designer?

From my experience, i know there are a few designers/architects etc in dentistry, but from what i have seen, most of their work is pretty much the same, just badged a little differently each time, no great consideration of brand and ethos has been considered, but most importantly addressing customer needs has not been considered.

When we chose our original designers/architects, we chose a firm that had little knowledge of dental practice technology (they learnt quickly) but they certainly understood what customers wanted. In my opinion, that is the essential aspect that so many dentists forget, what do customers want and to experience? Designing a practice around brand and customer experience is essential in today's private dental age, any good designer and architect can learn about the dental aspects they need to.

Just a few pictures of current plans for The Neem Tree 3 show above. All in development at the moment but pretty exciting when you see it on paper. Lots of decisions to be made.

If you want to get involved in detail to see The Neem Tree 3 develop from a concept to a final practice then don't miss out on our "Hands- On" Setting Up In Practice Programme starting 12th March 2010...more details here.