Friday 30 September 2011

Enterprise Task 1//Who am I- Who are they?


Task 1- Who am I- Who are they?
TASK

CLIENT GROUPS

Food & Health
Health and Beauty
Music 
Retail
Medical/Pharmacuetical
Publishing
Education
Leisure Industry
Sales & Marketing
Tourism
Charity
Technology 
Art & Design



The industry within Graphic Design that I would be particularly interested in working within is Publishing. Although my interests and experimentation in past design have transcended many fields, I feel that Publishing and Editorial is best suited to my work, ambitions, and style of design.

For me, publishing has always been a passion- a love for books and printed media instilled with me since childhood, it’s always been something I knew I wanted to be a part of, and have perused this with great interest. In the summer of 2011, I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to work at The National Magazine Company for a day- and the confidence this gave me has lead me to contact more magazine and publishing houses with the hopes of an internship or work experience in the coming months. With skills in Illustration and print, I could bring a great deal to such companies- working either freelance or as an in-house designer. The idea of working on a broad range of projects every day appeals to me- as this would fast-paced industry would provide- with a secure, and more than adequate salary to compliment the effort exhued.

Another appealing factor is the opportunity to work globally- wherever you are in the world, Publishers will be needed- it’s an inspiring thought.
To work in the public media is my true ambition- a keen networker and promoter of both my own work and other craft events- getting my work into the “seen” is the ultimate goal- and I aim to get there soon.

Wednesday 28 September 2011

Production- Print//Session 2- Colour for Print.


TASK

Using examples of design for branding & identity, packaging & promotion, publishing & editorital, and information & wayfinding, explore the following colour systems:

* CMYK (Process)
* Spot Colour (2 or more)
* Monochrome & Tints (Solid colour and half-tone)

In order to develop a significant awareness of print production methods, you will need to identify 2 examples of each colour process from each of the four areas of design.

Make sure you continue to explore a range of sources and research methods and post your findings to your Design Context blog. Your posts should be supported by an appropriate level of critical analysis and reflections on why you have chosen the examples.

MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS/DELIVERABLES

A series of posts to your Design Context blog, demonstrating an in depth investigation into Design for print in relation to the colour processes and 4 areas outlined above.

Significant critical evaluation of the examples identified through your research, including informed reasons for their selection.

At least 3 examples of 'actual' print should be brought to the Studio Workshop session on Tuesday 4th October.

Studio Deadline: 04/09/11- 9:00 am
Module Deadline:  22/11/11- 1:00 pm

Tuesday 27 September 2011

Task 1- Who am I- Who are they?//Lecture Notes.


FIRST LECTURE//ENTERPRISE//NOTES

"How to get yourself out there"- Lecture 1


Marketing & Promotion: First 5 Lectures
Set Up & Business Plans: Last 4 Lectures 

* www.designcouncil.org helps the design industry learn more about themselves. Spots trends, tells Government how to support designers. Specialist in particular fields, covering a wide spectrum of design practices. Trade journals reveal inside information. Produce statistical reports about the world of design.

* Large agencies= expensive to run, now just 2% of the market. Medium agencies= 11%, small= 87%, more affordable and flexible to run. Industry now dictates 87% agencies employ 10 people or less. Medium= approx. 100 employees, big agencies= working masses. SIZE MATTERS.

* Last year, the arts council reduced funding to the visual arts by 20%.

* Marketing is "The management process responsible for identifying, anticipating, and satisfying the customer requirements profitably." Surpassing expectations is what makes a great designer.


Marketing Roles

1. Identify customer needs to develop new products.
2. Develop pricing strategies.
3. Promote products to a target market.
4. Identify distribution networks.
5. Add value to your product through customer benefits.
6. Monitor the performance of the products.


New Products

UNDERSTAND NEEDS>>DEVELOP CONCEPT>>TEST CONCEPT>>REFINE CONCEPT>>MARKET PRODUCT>>GET FEEDBACK*

*CONTINUE THE LOOP 


Richard Reed, founder of Innocent Smoothies is a wonderful example of entrepreneurial thinking, with marketing know-how- he understood the importance of reviews and feedback, and used them to his advantage to become the great success that both he, and his company, are today.


Jeff Bezos, founder of 'Amazon' worked with an original and innovative concept- to source an online media for book buying. Not only would he supply the largest range of books from any shop, but also provide other useful features (similar to a bookshop) such as reviewing systems, a preview of the books before purchase, etc.


NEW CONCEPTS, NEW IDEAS... THINK CREATIVELY!
LISTEN TO YOUR CUSTOMERS!

Value Proposition

value/mission statement/aims/objective/proposition


* Services- quality, people, budgets
* Technology- cutting edge, reliable
* Methodology- quality processes, industry experience
* Products- state of the art, value for money
* Solutions- innovative
* Alliances- global industry leaders
* People- empowered, work as a team


We will need to create a mission statement out of our practice through these lectures.
Make it short, specific, use the customer's language and pass the "gut feeling" test.

CUSTOMERS WANT TO KNOW...


Past: skills, personality (work), ambitions, testimonials, key interests, values, achievements (internal/external. Self- internal, awards- external) press articles, exhibitions.


Future: External- Customer needs/social trends/tech/politics/economics/environmental.
Internal- Marketing plan/key objectives/opportunities/collaboration/resources.


WHEN NETWORKING WITH PROFESSIONALS, THIS IS WHAT THEY WANT TO KNOW ^^

Networking: Gallery openings, craft fairs, art market, trade shows.


Networks of friends and associates.


NEGOTIATE AND CLOSE THE DEAL IN BUSINESS
Have standards, know how much your time is worth. VALUE YOURSELF.

Service Organisations: Companies that only offer a service. Banks, Graphic Design, Dry Cleaning- Service Providers. The largest employment sector. 


BASIC PRINCIPLE OF MARKETING (THE "4 P'S")


PRODUCT- The service you offer, the work you produce, your creative input

PRICE- Relative pricing level/daily rate/royalty/free



PLACE- The best location to sell it/the sales environment/the services you offer (Where is it offered?/the competitive environment/high profile- passing trade?)


PROMOTION- Marketing methods/branding/your value proposition


PRODUCT, PRICE, PLACE, PROMOTION



P.T Barnum, Circus Salesman said:

"Without promotion, something terrible happens...nothing". 

He knew you had to...

1. Sell something unique.
2. Promote, Promote, Promote!

Without promotion a great product is worthless.

3. Showcase yourself. People like to buy from people. Explain why you're proud of your products and why people should buy them.

Monday 26 September 2011

Task 1- Who am I- Who are they?


TASK
Based on the principles that have been introduced so far in the Enterprise module, investigate who you are as a creative in relation to who is out there looking for creative talent.
Write a list of all the possible client groups that use graphic design in the development, production, distribution, promotion and/or communication of their products or services. Identify one client group that reflects your current ambitions within the graphic design area (music industry, retail, publishing, education, etc.) and focus on identifying:-  
* What skills/interests you have and how they relate to the needs of your client group?
* What skills are needed and what skills do you want to develop?
* What are your professional/creative aims and how do they relate to the needs of the client group?
It is essential that you make references to the '4 P's' which formed the core learning of your first Enterprise Lecture. This is an excercise in applying that theory- it is not appropriate to write about the theory itself. Demonstrate your understanding of it by actually using it. 

Mandatory Requirements/Deliverables 

The results of your research should be posted to your PPD blog and summarised by a 250 word statement/evaluation. You should aim to illustrate your opinions with relevant examples of contemporary design practice. All posts relating to this task should be labelled OUCE255 Task 1.
Studio Deadline: 01/11/2011- 9.30am
Module Deadline: Wednesday 28th February 2012- 4pm

Industry Experince.


After a tutorial with Fred, I have been thinking even more carefully about potential Industry placements and experience throughout the year. Already having contacted several studios, companies, etc, I have been lucky enough to get some great feedback- a lot of "we'll get back to you's", an unfortunate rejection from a Swiss publishing company, and a day's work experience at The National Magazine Company in London.

I have begun to expand my horizons, looking for both studio visits and placements. These are some more places of interest to contact within the next few days:

(NOTE TO SELF:  BEFORE CONTACTING, RE-DESIGN CV ON INDESIGN- MAKE APPROPRIATE FOR CREATIVE INDUSTRIES, ETC- ALSO CREATE PDF PORTFOLIO OF SELECTED PROJECTS)

LEEDS//YORKSHIRE//THE NORTH (UK)

- Studio MikMik
65 George Street
Saltaire
Shipley
West Yorkshire
BD18 4PL
United Kingdom

+44 (0)7545 867493 

Environmental Print Design
Featured in Computer Arts, Cups of tea a plenty

- Raw 
"Thoughtful and effective design"- WEBSITE UNDER MAINTENANCE, PDF PORTFOLIO AVAILABLE
Salford based Graphic Design studio

+44 (0)161 839 2260

- Music
Manchesterd- based Graphic Design company.
Good connections with LCA BAGD, come in for regular talks, etc.

phone on +44(0)161 203 6404
send Sue an email (for clients)
send Craig an email (for students)
or call in at 84 Silk Street, Manchester M4 6BJ


- Un.titled
New website coming soon
Leicester based design studio
Un.titled
Factory 21
Wellington Street
Leicester
LE1 6HH

New Business: hello@un.titled.co.uk
Telephone: +44 (0)116 247 1111


SHROPSHIRE (UK)

- Carl Jones Design
Est. London 2001, moved to Shropshire 2004
1st Floor Studio, 20 Sandford Avenue, Church Stretton, Shropshire, SY6 6BW

studio@carljonesdesign.com 
01694 72 49 49

- Verve
The Rural Enterprise Centre
Stafford Drive, Battlefield Enterprise Park
Shrewsbury, Shropshire
SY1 3FE UK 

Created branding for OSFEST (Oswestry music festival)

+44 (0) 1743 467 700
info@verveuk.eu

LONDON//THE SOUTH (UK)

- Dry
Graphics, Digital design, packaging, branding & identity 

53-55 Scrutton St London, EC2A 4PJ
+44 207 324 7799

  
info@dry.uk.com


- Killstudio

Somerset based Graphic Design Studio: brand identity, illustration, etc.
Clients/features include VW (Cars) & Computer Arts

Killstudio / Design Studio
Frome, Somerset, England


T: +44 (0) 7966 148 447
E:
hello@killstudio.co.uk


- Rubber Duckiee Ltd.
Specialising in websites, exhibitions, branding, identity, marketing and packaging.

Unit 5, 16-18 Park Works
Park Road
Kingston Upon Thames
Surrey, KT2 6BG

Office - 020 8274 9644
Direct - 07740 411034
http://jump.dexigner.com/directory/17226

- Thomas Manss & Company

Worked for clients such as RIBA and Zaha Hadid. Specialising in branding, sleek design. Impressive portfolio of clients and design.

Thomas Manss & Company
3 Nile Street
London N1 7LX
England

T +44 20 72 51 77 77
E uk@manss.com


- Spin
London, UK
Clients include Wallpaper* magazine

Spin
Studio 2
33 Stannary Street
London SE11 4AA


+44 (0)20 7793 9555


New business enquiries please contact patricia@spin.co.uk

Any other enquiries please contact sam@spin.co.uk

Queries about work or student placements please mail Sam with either a link to your website or a PDF selection of your work.


- SNAP

2007 Bristol-based arts co-operative
Clare Owen (Illustrator) worked there after graduating
Screen print center
The gallery is open from Tuesday-Saturday 10-6pm

Snap Print Cooperative, Studio and Shop
20-21 Lower Park Row
Bristol
BS1 5BN
United Kingdom





telephone +44 (0) 1173 763 564

Open Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 6pm
Mondays by appointment only, please ring the gallery first.


- Thirteen
146 Gloucester Road, Bishopston
Bristol BS7 8NT, United Kingdom
Tel. +44 (0) 117 924 3992

Employment enquiries: oppurtunities@thirteen.co.uk
General enquiries: enquiries@thirteen.co.uk


http://jump.dexigner.com/directory/2730

- Design Bridge
Est. 1980's, Singapore/Amsterdam/London

120 people in London office of 18 nationalities

Clients include Love 2 Bake, PG Tips, Nails Inc, Oxo.

BELGIUM (BE)

* Antwerp//Antwerpen

- Work Wood Design Studio, Antwerp. Graphic Design, Web, Art Direction, Illustration, Video & Motion.
FOUNDER & CREATIVE- dir. Nik Bayens. Clients such as Bic, Danone, Nivea.

- FLINK, Antwerp
"small team, big results"
OWNER- Sean Oppalfens

+32 3 227 06 53
VISIT: de Burburestraat 20, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium


- INTO1
2 brothers- specialising in Photoshop and Illustrator
"FRESH" typographic printed tee designs

+32 (0) 479 55 25 97
VISIT: Heidestraat- Noord 5 
2950 Kapellen


weare@into1.be (email)

* Brussels//Bruxelles

- JOSWORLD VZW
Graphic Design, Art, Curation, Creative Concepts
(UNUSUAL WEB HEADER- Stoats??)
Niewbrug, 3 Rue du Pont Neuf, 1000 BRUSSELS, Belgium 
jos@josworld.org (email)

Design Directory.


Amazing site for sourcing design studios around the world- presumably a commissioned based website, taking a small percentage from each of the companies to promote their sites.
This will keep me busy for a while.

OUGD201 Design Production/Print- RATIONALE.


BRIEF//STATEMENT
OUGD201- Design Production/Print- Good Is...?
Promote and Educate the films of Wes Anderson


GOOD IS... THE FILMS OF WES ANDERSON


BACKGROUND

Based upon my preparatory research and summer presentation, I will develop the background and source material to develop a theoretical information graphics exhibit retrospective of the films of Wes Anderson, along with printed media to help promote, educate and persuade film lovers about the films in question.



AIMS

I will create vinyl wall graphics to mock up in a museum/gallery environment- printed type and narrative, way finding and info graphics media. I also intend to produce printed media to promote the event such as posters, mailshots and printed tickets.


AUDIENCE

Due to the more adult nature and context of some of the Wes Anderson films, I naturally have a more mature audience. Therefore, I intend to design my project for an older age range, yet still creating a fun, exciting and visually communicative environment in order to inform, educate, persuade and promote both Wes Anderson and his films. I will particularly aim my designs at film and design lovers- combining the factors and giving evidence of both cinematic and design detail achievements within his films.



MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

To build a substantial and contemporary body of research from both primary and secondary sources related to Wes Anderson- information about himself (biographical) and his films through various means.
Research printed media to develop a portfolio of inspiration to create my own designs from for my final outcomes.


DELIVERABLES

Evidence of systematic and organised research and development material posted to my design practice blog.
Ongoing self evaluation posted to my Design Practice blog. 

PDF artwork of all final proposals and mocked- up pieces or "photoshopped" contextualisation where appropriate.

5 x Presentation boards demonstrating the practical and conceptual development and resolution of the brief.



DEADLINE
Studio Deadline: 19/10/2011
Module Deadline: 21/11/2012


Friday 23 September 2011

Study Task 1 Why Am I Here - What do I want to Learn?//ANSWERS.


Responses and feeback from Study Task 1.

IDENTIFY AND EXPLAIN 5 REASONS WHY YOU CHOSE TO STUDY ON THIS COURSE

- I always knew that I loved Illustration, but from visiting several Illustration courses, experiencing open days and interview, I didn't know if this would be quite enough. I was blessed with the enthusiasm and excitement for learning new things, and I felt that studying on a graphic design degree course would be an excellent way to expand my knowledge and skills whilst still remaining faithful to my Illustration roots.

- A major factor in deciding upon which course I studied at University was based upon Industry support and education. Whilst learning skills and software was, of course, a very important factor, what I felt was important went beyond that. For me, I was focused on life after Uni, and felt it was very important to learn about the industry, marketing and the business aspect of Graphic Design. This course promised all this and more, and seemed very faithful to their plight to make the most of, and support their students.
- Coming from a reasonably rural town in Shropshire, Leeds felt like a great change for me. Not too big, not too small- almost a small-scale, and far friendlier version of London. Plus, one of Leeds' largest industries in print- one of my greatest interests within Graphic Design practice. To choose the Leeds College of Art Graphic Design course to apply to from the three major Universities was a no- brainer- it was the cream of the crop.

- The course boasts an exceptional alumni despite it's "tender years"- the work ethos of the tutors, which is driven into the students has resulted in fantastic portfolios of work that have gone on to achieve great success, and even greater industrial placements.

- During my interview (with head of the degree) I was really inspired by Fred's attitude and genuine passion for Design. He gave me full encouragement that I would learn a great deal on the course, and could go on to achieve great things once I had graduated. The day I was accepted onto the course I was deliriously happy.

IDENTIFY AND EXPLAIN 5 THINGS YOU WANT TO LEARN DURING YOUR TIME ON THE PROGRAMME

- Although my understanding and knowledge of industry-standard software has undoubtedly improved (in leaps and bounds!) since enrolling for my first year on the course, I still feel reasonably behind in terms of where I feel I should be. I want to perfect what I already know, and tackle some of the completely new software programmes (to me) such as Flash and Dreamweaver that are utilised for screen-based design.

- I would like to perfect my screen printing skills. Although I have had a reasonable level of experience/workshops, I need to immerse myself in some screen print sessions and jump in at the deep end (without assistance so I can learn for myself/be completely independent) and make myself the master of the screen- not the other way round.

- Although it is certainly progressing throughout my design practice, I would like to develop a far wider range of contacts within industry- not only for work experience, placements, and internships but also printers, fellow designers, promoters, agents etc. By the time I graduate, I want to be 100% prepared for "the real world", as opposed to having to bluff my way along each day, pretending that I know what I'm doing.

- Though dabbled with in college and my own personal time, I would really love to make a (good) animation, preferably hand-drawn. One of my greatest sources of design inspiration comes from animation- such as, particularly, the stunning work of Julia Pott (MA Animation graduate from Royal College of Art).

- Being a huge photography fan, I would love to develop my skills in this area. Whilst studio and lighting equipment is available to me for free through the University, I would really love to exhaust these facilities personally, as well as collaborating with other Photography students.

IDENTIFY AND EXPLAIN 5 THINGS YOU THINK ARE YOUR STRENGTHS

- Hand-rendered illustration has always been one of my strengths. However, due to learning new software and vector-based programmes this year it hasn't been quite so readily utilised as a final outcome as it would have been in college. However, I am now learning how to use my hand-rendered illustrations in software programmes and perfect and stylise them with computer-aided technology, as opposed to being one or the other.

- I definitely seem to work my best, and receive best results when I create projects which are either light- hearted or humorous. I completely thrive when working with terrible puns and, on the whole, loving what I'm doing.

- Networking. Not to blow my own trumpet, but when it comes to networking, I'm on fire. However unusual it may sound, one of my favourite aspects of the Graphic Design course is researching, and this bodes very well for seeking out companies and designers, as well as putting my work out into the world and self-promotion.

- Business and accounting. True, I am a beginner, but I really enjoy the accounting and business side of my design practice (my Grandfather was an accountant, must be in the blood). I have been fortunate enough to have a little success with my online Etsy store throughout the summer, as well as establishing a relationship with two shops- one in Liverpoool, 'Nook & Cranny', which are currently stocking some of my items, and a gifts and home ware boutique in my hometown of Shrewsbury, which will be stocking my designs in the near future.

- Presenting. Although half of the time I would much rather run and hide in a dark place, I feel that I can forge confidence reasonably well, and can deliver confident, and, hopefully, concise presentations and pitches.

IDENTIFY AND EXPLAIN 5 THINGS YOU WANT TO IMPROVE

- Self- confidence within my work. This may be quite normal, or it may be a slight neurotic tendency in myself alone but I definitely go through peaks and troughs when it comes to my confidence in my own ability. I need to man up and consider that everyone makes mistakes- and that they aren't always a bad thing. It's on my to-do list.

- Visual communication. Last year I had a consistent problem with this and seemed to unwittingly insist on over-complicating everything. I need to snap out of this and stop trying to be clever (even if it is unknowingly doing so)- I need more self-awareness and evaluation of what I'm doing at all times.

- Tax and accounting. Sure, I enjoy it (as aforementioned) but I am no means (yet) an accountancy wizard. Again, it's on my to-do list. Enterprise lectures and sessions through PPD this year will be invaluable.

- Decision making and critical analysis. I'm still at the stage in my practice where I often feel I need reassurance with my concepts and design ideas. Again, I'm sure this is a confidence issue- which will undoubtedly ease with time and practice.

- Understanding of type and image- very vague in terms of what I want to improve, I know. Really, I just want to improve my understanding and application of both throughout my work, and to be able to transform my designs from student work to a professional standard.

IDENTIFY AND EXPLAIN 5 WAYS YOU WILL EVALUATE YOUR PROGRESS


- Every day I make to-do lists. This ensures I stay on top of my work and makes sure that I always stay on target for my work/life balance. (Though the life bit is pretty scant).

- Consistently going over my blogs to look at old work, consider my development within projects and to write written assessments of my thoughts at the time (for my PPD blog).

- Ask for feedback from my peers and tutors on a constant basis, to develop as many opinions and views as possible. Hopefully not so much that they'll get sick of me though.

- Create semi-regular check/aim lists of what I aspire to achieve- setting goals for myself will give me more determination to pursue different areas within my design practice.

- Post blogs/design work onto networking sites such as twitter- getting an outsider's opinion for (hopefully) perhaps a slightly more brutal, but completely honest view of my progress.


IDENTIFY 5 THINGS YOU WANT TO FIND THE ANSWER TO


- How feasible is it to go straight into freelance work immediately after graduating? Although I know that industry experience would be very valuable, I am fiercely determined to work freelance as I am, admittedly, very independent. Although I know fierce determination doesn't always pay the bills.

- What is the average amount of time that Graphic Design students spend in internships, and at what point in their education is this usually undertaken?

- What is the average yearly salary for both an intern and a freelance designer?

- What percentage of LCA BAGD graduates are currently freelance, and what is their success/portfolio standard?

- How to create a mind- bogglingly awesome and irresistible CV. Mine's perfectly okay at the minute, but I want it so good that it brings tears to the eyes of design agencies. Please.

D&AD//YCN.



As suggested by Graphic Design course leader, Fred, this morning I both registered myself with D&AD and subscribed to YCN creative networks. This way I'll consistently be kept up to date with the latest in design and contemporary practice- another great networking tool for my future portfolio and design too.

STUDY TASK 2 - Group Tutorial Prep.


TASK

Use your PPD blog to record your responses to the following questions ahead of the group tutorials after reading week.

* What is industrial experience?
* What can you learn from industrial experience?
* What form/format could industrial experience take?
* What areas of industry are you interested in?
* What are your concerns about industrial experience?

Research Sources/Further Inspiration

Identify at least five responses to each question and find appropriate primary and secondary sources of information (including visual material) that will support your findings. You will need these at your group tutorial and will form the basis for group discussion.
Use your findings to develop initial ideas about your own views, opinions, aims, and ambitions in relation to industrial experience, internships and/or work placement oppurtunities.
Summarise your research in a set of 10 short but qualified statements on your blog.

Mandatory Requirements/Deliverables

Blog posts and research undertaken in response to this task should be labelled OUPD201 and OUPD201 Task 2. 

Your opinions should be supported by appropriate contextual and visual references to contemporary practice.

Studio Deadline 

01/11/2011

Your responses should be available for discussion during the workshop group tutorials on 01,08,15 November 2011.

See E-Studio for session details and tutorial sign up.

Study Task 1 Why Am I Here - What do I want to Learn?


TASK

Using the online resources that you have been introduced to in the module briefing and based on questions raised in the studio workshop and experiences of the first 2 weeks on the course: (Year II)

* Identify and explain 5 reasons why you chose to study on this course.
* Identify and explain 5 things you want to learn during your time on the programme.
* Identify and explain 5 things you think are your strengths.
* Identify and explain 5 things you want to improve.
* Identify and explain 5 ways you will evaluate your progress.
* Identify 5 things you want to find the answer to.

Responses to these prompts should be posted on your PPD blog. Once you have completed these responses create a post on the Level 05 Yearboard (Moodle) that directs your blog group to your responses on the PPD blog. Take some time over next week to review and comment on the responses of your blog group.

Mandatory Requirements

Responses must be posted to your PPD blog. 

Blog posts and research undertaken in response to this task should be labelled OUPD201 and OUDP201 Task 2.

Where possible/necessary use images to illustrate your responses.

Studio Deadline: 01/11/2011- 9.30am//PPD 2 GROUP TUTORIAL
Module Deadline: 08/06/2012