LESSON 03 / Owners / 4 MINUTES

Proof beats adjectives.

“World-class” is easy to type. Useful evidence takes a little more effort.

Show something a buyer can examine

A relevant example, a clear explanation of the work and an identifiable source of a testimonial are more useful starting points than a row of unsubstantiated superlatives. Your proof should relate to what the customer is choosing you to do.

When a project is your own demonstration, say so. When a redesign is a proposal rather than commissioned work, say that too. These are still legitimate ways to show your thinking. They simply prove different things.

Own-brand concept.
Real design work. No imaginary client.

Separate appearance from outcomes

A before/after image can show a change in layout, readability, content hierarchy or visual style. It cannot, by itself, establish an increase in sales. That requires appropriate outcome data, a time period and an honest account of other changes that could have influenced the result.

Avoid attaching a percentage because it makes the layout look finished. Empty evidence does not become stronger in a very handsome font.

Use permission and context

Before publishing client work, confirm your right to show it and the accuracy of any attribution. Do not imply that a business approved a speculative concept. Remove private information and be careful with screenshots that contain names, orders or account details.

This lesson is a publishing checklist, not a complete legal review. Australian misleading-claims guidance is a relevant starting point; rights and contractual obligations depend on the material and circumstances.

A practical checklist

  • Label concept work next to the example, not only in a distant footer.
  • Connect any results claim to evidence, dates and limitations.
  • Confirm rights and remove personal or confidential information.
PUT IT TO WORK

A little judgement call.

A concept redesign looks excellent, but has never been launched. Which caption is honest?
Read the explanation

The second describes what is actually available to inspect. The first adds commercial results the image cannot establish.

A learning exercise, not an expertise score. No answers are sent anywhere.

Evidence & perspective

Truthful-presentation house rules informed by Australian regulator guidance. This is not legal advice.

ACCC: false or misleading claims ↗

Learning edition · 17 September 2026 · DigiThat. Recheck live standards and documentation for your project.

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