As is the case with a house style, the design of a character has to withstand the test of time. After all, a character can easily outlive its originators. Accordingly, a great deal of attention must be paid to the development of a character.

To be effective in a wide variety of media, each with their own specific demands. A well-designed character should be optimally equipped to meet all key requirements.

First, it is essential that a client has a clear purpose for the character. What is the key message it must convey? What is the character's primary target audience? Using market research and consumer surveys, a fairly accurate profile can be developed of the qualities that the design must meet.

Based on this information, the actual design can be started. It is a good idea to determine in advance how and in which forms the character will be used.