Here's what you'll find in this edition of the Update:
I recently made a major commitment to this industry when I agreed to marry a designer. Itll be black clothes, late nights and computers in every room from now on. (Actually, Ben doesnt wear much black, but he does work late several nights a week, and were a three-computer household.)
Our first trial as a recently engaged couple is to face every designers worst nightmarethe wedding industry. Id like to meet the marketing genius behind this bridal machine that turns normally sane women (and men) into tacky checkbook-wielding maniacs.
Thankfully, I have HOW to turn to for inspiration. Working on our competitions, Ive been able to examine the best wedding invitations, programs and Web sites. And while much of it is out of our price range, it does give us hope that not all wedding gear has to be festooned with hearts and lace.
So watch out wedding industry! Well be breaking all the rules (but not the bank) in the name of good design.
Megan Lane
HOWdesign.com Email Update Editor
GOING WITH YOUR GUT
"I've got a feeling about this one," hiring managers often say about promising candidates. That's not surprising given the results of a recent Creative Group survey of marketing and advertising executives. Forty-six percent of respondents said they rely very much on instinct when making hiring decisions; 49 percent follow their gut at least some of the time.
Advertising and marketing executives were asked, "When making hiring decisions, how much do you rely on your intuition or gut instinct?" Their responses:
Very much 46%
Somewhat 49%
Not very much 4%
Not at all 1%
"Interviewing is both an art and a science," says Tracey Fuller, executive director of The Creative Group. "Carefully reviewing an applicant's resume, portfolio and experience provides details on the person's qualifications, but one-on-one meetings afford a glimpse into the intangible qualities that make someone the right fit for the position."
It's not enough for a candidate to "look good on paper; he or she must also complement the team dynamic. Fuller added, "Managers should create a profile of what they are looking for in a new hire beyond skill sets and professional background, including personality and work ethic."
The Creative Group has offices in major markets across the U.S. and in Canada and offers online job search services at www.creativegroup.com.
DESIGN AS STORYTELLING
by Terry Marks
We all love stories. Stories breathe meaning into the stuff of life. But what about visuals? Can they tell a story? I sure as shine-ola hope so! It's how so many of us make our living.
The trick is telling the story without the benefit of those pesky little words filling in all the gaps of meaning. So. What. We. Get. Are ... pieces. Just like hearing Captain Kirk speak. But with visuals, a story can be compelling. So just how do you craft one effectively?
Know this: Stories have character, conflict and resolution. Good stories allow the audience to know or foresee the resolution or transformation. For design, this structure can result in persuasion, or at least point to it. We can do the same with visuals. Tall order? Well, then, let's get to it:
Know where you're going. Where do you want your audience to end up? You're in the driver's seat, so you better have your trip planned out. Know your character. Character is plot; it drives the story. In design, the company or subject is the character. If you don't know it intimately, you can't tell the story.
Every element needs to be clear. Each piece must speak to the audience and be unambiguous. Your message will be stronger for it. Simplify and connect. Cut what's unimportant or distracting. If it doesn't add, it detractsso subtract it.
Read more.
5 HOT LINKS
Marq Spusta Art & Design Studio
Enter the strange world of Marq Spusta. These dual portfolios of design and art are enough to keep you occupied for a while. Make sure to check out the store's prints and playing cards.
design by SEAL
This intricate flash site is built around a military theme.
Mike Buchman Graphic Design
Looking at Mike Buchman's flashy portfolio site makes you want to put down your Palm, pick up a cooler of cold ones and head down to the lake.
(m/v)ontwerpers
Quirky product design from Belgian Alain Monnens.
StockBucket
Introduction photography, illustration and typography developed by creative professionals, for creative professionals. This ain't your momma's stock.
BOOK WATCH
Build your design library with help from the HOW Bookstore.
Identity Solutions
By Cheryl Cullen and Amy Schell
No.: 32532
Price: $32.99
Need some extra inspiration before starting on your next logo project? Want to see some of the best new examples of letterhead design around? Take a look at Identity Solutions, the premiere collection of business card, letterhead and logo design. In addition to seeing quality work from well-known and up-and-coming designers, youll get behind-the-scenes information and insider tips on each and every project.
Read more.
How to Design Logos, Symbols and Icons
By Gregory Thomas
No.: 32708
Price: $24.99
A best-selling classic is now out in paperback! This collection of case studies provides in-depth information about the processes used to create the symbols that represent an entire business or product. Step into design firms studios to trace the evolution of great logos, symbols and icons.
Read more.
Product News
Getty Images recently announced that it will be publishing a new magazine called Edit, which will address the big issues in the world of creative, news, entertainment and sport photography, and film.
Edit represents Getty Images mission to engage the visual-communications industry, covering the various trends, ideas and issues that shape photography and filmmaking today, in both the editorial and creative space.
Edit will be published in four languages and distributed for free to Getty Images customers. It also will be available as a Webzine and for purchase at www.gettyimages.com. In keeping with the growing trend toward smaller magazines, Edit will measure 9x6.5in. (23x16.5cm.); the first issue runs 96 pages.
Industry News
Adobe Systems Inc. and AIGA recently announced a long-term alliance dedicated to advancing design and the use of technology across the creative industries. Through events, seminars and mentoring programs, Adobe's national alliance with AIGA will highlight the impact of design on the economy and society, as well as create forums for designers to learn more about technology and give feedback on what they require from technology companiestoday and in the future.
An example of Adobe and AIGA collaboration at the formative stage of young designers' development is the AIGA New York chapter Mentoring Program, where students from New York City's High School of Design receive skills training and tools from local AIGA members and Adobe to advance their creativity and their careers. For more information on the Mentoring Program, visit www.iamtheproject.org.
HOWs International Design Competition
Deadline: September 15, 2004
Winners will be published in HOWs International Design Annual, the April 2005 issue. All winning entries will be featured, and each winning designer will receive a frameable certificate, a copy of the April issue and a $50 discount toward registration for the 2005 HOW Design Conference. One Best of Show Winner will be profiled in HOW magazine and will be our guest at the 2005 HOW Design Conference.
Visit HOWdesign.com.
SIGGRAPH
August 8-12, 2004
Los Angeles, CA
Join thousands of techies at the 31st international conference on computer graphics and interactive techniques.
Visit www.siggraph.org.
From the HOWdesign.com Job Bank
Position: Designer Manager
Posted: 6/29/2004
Firm: Brooklyn Academy of Music, Brooklyn, NY
Contact: Director Human Resources; hrresumes@bam.org
Web site: www.bam.org
Internationally recognized performing arts center seeks hyper-organized, deadline-oriented individual to oversee job trafficking, production and studio management of in-house design department. This position reports to the Director of Design and works closely with designers and other departments throughout the institution. Specific responsibilities include:
- distribution and supervision of all tasks assigned to department
- managing production of print and electronic media
- tracking of project budgets and time within studio of four employees
- interdepartmental billing tasksgeneral upkeep of studio and its resources.
Salary: Low 30s. Comprehensive benefits. Free and reduced-rate tickets to performances.
Requirements: At least 18 months hands-on pre-press print-production experience; strong communication and interpersonal skills; extremely organized and detail oriented; ability to adhere to strict deadlines; interest in design/marketing and the arts. Knowledge of Macintosh computer operating system and QuarkXpress is essential. InDesign, Acrobat, MS Office, FileMaker and Photoshop experience a plus.
Submission Procedure: Either mail (1) cover letter, resume and salary requirements, or email (2) PDF (only format) cover letter, resume and salary requirements to: Director of Human Resources, Brooklyn Academy of Music, 30 Lafayette Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11217, or in PDF-only format to Hrresumes@BAM.org. No raw email text resumes, please.
For more information on this job, or to search other job postings, check out the HOW Job Bank.
ADVERTISER SPECIAL OFFERS
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