Language Barriers
We’re not talking about native languages here. This is about communicating via the same methods. Describing design intentions and website functionality can be hard. It’s easy to talk at cross-purposes. Therefore it is beneficial for everyone in the digital team to have some understanding of one another’s language.
This doesn’t mean that designers need to learn code, or developers need to be able to design, but a shared understanding and mutual respect for each other’s expertise goes a long way.
Beyond that, learning the best ways to communicate with each other will make the design and development process more effective. For example, drawing a simple diagram may help get your point across faster than a page of written notes. A quick 5 minute chat can solve a challenge faster than endless emails. These methods may not work for everything, but it’s important to find lines of communication that do work – even if these change on a project by project basis.
The other thing to consider is individual preference. Some of us enjoy working side by side to solve a particular challenge. Whilst others prefer to keep their headphones on and their head down to keep their flow. Everyone has their own way.