They Say Its a Masterpiece. I Say Its a Disaster-piece! – Waldorf (Probably)
Giving Better Feedback
Martijn Veldkamp
“Strategic Technology Leader | Customer’s Virtual CTO | Salesforce Expert | Helping Businesses Drive Digital Transformation”
May 9, 2025
After my Muppet Show article I had some very fun conversations. Why did it struck such a nerve? I think, probably because fields like architecture often involve abstract concepts, processes, and terminology. Analogies, specially well known and loved characters like the Muppets, act as powerful simplifying agents. They help translate complex ideas into understandable terms, broadening accessibility and engagement beyond my niche expert circle on LinkedIn.
The Guide to Surviving Design Critiques (and Giving Better Feedback)
Ah, the design approval phase. That hallowed architectural ritual where bright ideas meet, ehhh, the cold, hard glare of scrutiny. I know it’s part of the process, a step where concepts are refined. But lets be honest, sometimes it feels less like a constructive dialogue and more like you’ve accidentally wandered onto the stage of The Muppet Show, right into the firing line of Statler and Waldorf.
The archetype
You know the feeling. You’ve poured your heart, soul into that design. You present it with a hopeful tremor, and then… the heckling begins This, my friends, is the Statler and Waldorf effect. Next to the sarcastic takedown, they will findi fault with absolutely everything, all while cackling at their own wit. They are the archetype of every cynical client, every change-resistant committee member and every jaded senior partner who has seen it all before.
Destructive, Not Constructive
Their specialty is pointing out what’s wrong, often in the most demoralizing way possible, without offering much in the way of alternatives, solutions or encouragement. Encountering this resistance can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re passionate about your work.
Your Balcony Defense Manual
So, you’re facing a Statler and Waldorf in your design review. Your concept is being compared to something Fozzie Bear coughed up. What do you do? Develop a thick skin or a really good poker face, just kidding.
Remember, their commentary is often more about them and their negativity than it is about you or your work. Try not to take it too personally. Listen because occasionally, buried deep beneath layers of sarcasm, there might be a legitimate concern. It’s like panning for gold in a river of *beep*. It’s tempting to get defensive or fire back with your own sarcasm. Resist. You wont win. They have decades of practice. A polite, thank you for your perspective, we’ll certainly consider that, can be surprisingly disarming. Seek clarity, if a criticism is particularly vague and cutting, like It just doesn’t feel right, you could ask for specifics. Could you elaborate on what aspects aren’t resonating? Be prepared for another sarcastic volley, but you might occasionally get something more tangible. Remember Your Allies. Hopefully, not everyone in the room is so jaded. Lean on the more constructive feedback from others. Take the time for a Post-Critique Autopsy. After the barrage, take a moment to sift through the comments. Discard the pure heckling. Discuss the potentially valid points with trusted colleagues. Sometimes, even a broken clock is right twice a day.
Giving Feedback That Actually Helps
The golden rule: critique unto others as you would have them critique unto you. (Thanks spell checker)
Be Specific: If you think something will not work, point that specific point out.Balance is Key: Balance your critique with the good things that you see.Focus on the Work, Not the PersonOffer Solutions, Not Just ProblemsAsk Questions: A probing question might lead to great discussion that help clear up the designRemember the Goal: What are they trying to solve forDon’t Think Old (Even if You Are): Avoid the trap of automatically dismissing new ideas simply because they’re different.
Closing off
By learning to filter their feedback, and by striving to offer more constructive criticism ourselves, we can make the whole process a little less painful and a lot more productive. Remember: at least they showed up. And who knows, maybe one day you’ll even get a It wasn’t half bad! And for Statler and Waldorf, thats practically a standing ovation.
Well, that article wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. You’re right. It was worse! Doo-ho-ho-ho-ho!
