This is a term that we use in the studio and from time to time it comes out in front of a client. It is a term that we use without real thought of what it actually means, the word that is. We know what it represents but have never looked for the 'actual' meaning or origin.

Then we thought, does our website design, branding design or corporate identity client base actually know what the word 'scamp' represents. The best way to answer all of these questions is to explain the design process, how it works and why it is so important.

The creative process begins at the moment we listen to our clients requirements, the creative thoughts begin to flow the moment a brief is delivered. Capturing these ideas quickly and effectively is vital to make sure no tiny idea that could be the campaign breaker is lost. This is where the 'scamping' process comes in. A 'scamp' is the art of getting ideas on to a page in a sketch format, no matter how simple or comprehensive. Also known as 'roughs' these drawings represent thoughts, ideas and of course creativity. What they don't represent is a final worked up and polished idea, but the magic that creates a successful concept.

Starting with scamps we then discuss them internally and with clients, we refine them and move the design process on. We may develop further scamps before working up visuals of how a more polished concept will look before developing the final idea or ideas.

scamp'er n.
To perform in a careless superficial way.