I’m a big fan of trying to use a common vocabulary to describe things, especially when working with different departments, companies etc. - the more people you have involved the more important I believe that becomes.

So I was wondering how designers (I’m talking about visual designs here, UI etc.) refer to designs, I’ve heard some of the following being used within my time (mostly with my current company):

  • Design
  • Design candidate
  • Mock-up
  • Concept

I’d like to know how do you refer to designs, especially if you work in a design shop etc.