The Design Can

I've started reading Debbie Millman's latest book, "How To Think Like A Great Graphic Designer." The premise is a series of interviews with iconic designers like Milton Glaser and Lucille Tenazas. I thought it might be interesting to chronicle my thoughts after reading each interview.

The first is Michael Beirut. I've always liked Michael. We met in Nashville in 1995 at an AIGA Board retreat. Even then he was a Design Superstar. I discovered that he played blues piano and it just so happened I had brought my guitar. We jammed in the hotel lobby for about 30 minutes. I hadn't even graduated from college yet, and here this gracious Design Legend took time to hang out with me. He probably wouldn't remember that day, but it certainly left an impression on me.

In his interview, Michael confesses his flaws and inhibitions about his talent, his Design process or lack thereof and compulsive tendencies. Very revealing and quite entertaining.

What surprised me the most was learning how much Michael and I have in common. To achieve success, we both had to work very, very hard and had to use our brains to compensate for a lack of natural talent. It's inspiring to know that someone can rise to the top of his profession despite initial shortcomings.

Like Mike, I've also stretched myself with learning to write better. Between proposals, copywriting and this blog, it's almost like starting over in a new profession. You get excited when you see a finished piece that you're proud of. Michael talks about the challenges of his writing endeavors and it's comforting to know that if Michael can do it, I can too.

Labels: branding, Debbie Millman, design, design issues

Self-Promotion. New Business Development. Not unlike the "War On Terror," the effort to promote oneself and generate new biz is never ending. It's a constant struggle because it touches so many aspects of your firm. Positioning, differentiation, product offering, what to charge, it all affects your success or lack there of.

Labels: aiga, branding, design, design issues, spark, things to do

For a company that invented itself on making the perfect copy, Xerox has outdone itself with this new logo. I think we all remember the AT&T redesign, with their implementation of the "swirly globe" look that has been synonymous with everything from high-tech companies to Church logos. Just visit http://www.logolounge.com/ (membership required) and you'll see thousands of similar executions.

I often wonder how talented and creative Designers are reduced to "My secretary likes the AT&T logo. Can't we put our X there and make it red?" (Nothing against Secretaries) I know what you're thinking...haven't you ever had to compromise? Design something you weren't proud of? Yes, but I wouldn't crow about it.

Quoted from the Times: Maryann J. Stump, senior director of brand strategy for Interbrand says. “And you can do animation with a symbol that you just can’t do with a wordmark.” Brilliant.

We can make it spin, catch on fire, anything you like Mr. Xerox, so long as your check clears the bank...She can't possibly be serious.

My explanation would be something like, "The client had a strong vision for the redesign of this Identity and was very hands on with the design implemetation. After a thorough evaluation of over hundreds of options, the client's in-house committee felt this direction best represented the interests of the company."

Gotta run. I've got to go xerox a logo by tomorrow morning.

Xerox Hopes Its New Logo Doesn’t Say ‘Copier’ - New York Times

Labels: branding, design issues, ridiculous items, tech-stuf

JEA has released a new RFP and several local agencies are participating. Yeah!

I'm certain said agencies are preparing a lavish reception for Mary Fisher, Jan Korb, Tony Allegretti, Alison Blackstone and yours truly. After all it's these fine rabble-rousers that got them a second chance.

Tom or Jim, In case you're looking for thank you gift ideas, I'm rather fond of Pinot Noir and Imported Beer. Best of luck guys!

Labels: branding, design issues, ridiculous items

TU and I were never the best of friends, but I had hoped we could patch things up after the whole "beware of the 26" thing.

"Any agency can give you catchy phrases, but BlueBridge has the skills and expertise to create an entire campaign or a simple project to capture your target audience with a pool of resources to bring you and your customers together." Awesome dude.

Labels: design issues, ridiculous items

JEA just released a meeting agenda for Thursday, September 13. Item #3 reads:

"JEA IFB# JEV-078-07 Request approval to rescind the solicitation and reject all bids for the Integrated Brand Communications Services Project."

Labels: design issues

Design. Short. Sweet. A website built because the internet wasn't made for long prose and you know you're supposed to be working anyway.

Design Opinions at 200 words or less. A Brief Message

Brought to us by Khoi Vinh, the design director behind NYTimes.com and Subtraction.com, featuring the design opinions of design luminaries such as Steven Heller and Debbie Millman.

Even the comments have to be kept short. So stay off your soapbox.

Labels: design, design issues, shorties

I was sorting through the blogroll and came across this "open letter" to Palm. Their astute observation about Palm's impending demise is riveting. Apparently the Treo is seriously up against the ropes. iPhone, HTC and Moto and others are throwing a "blanket party". The Engadget boys have provided an exceptional critique of what's wrong (and right) with Palm and what they need to recover.

If there was ever a time for design to save a company, this is it. This letter is definite read:

Dear Palm: It's time for an intervention - Engadget

Labels: design, design issues

Labels: design issues