Graphic Design Dream Team - Part II

April 15, 2010 – 3:46 pm

The Best in the Biz

If learning about artistic whiz-kids hasn’t been a part of your graphic design education to date, let this be the start of a new chapter! In our last post, we met Milton Glaser and Neville Brody. Today, we’re going to get better acquainted with the calm, cool, and collected father of modern technology design.

As graphic design schools focus more on digital, web, and product design, so are we! Who better to expand our scope than the iMaster, the iGenius, the iVisionary.

Jonathan Ive - The iNnovator

This Apple veteran could probably walk you through the halls blindfolded. Jonathan Ive joined the company in 1992, and was promoted to Senior Vice President of Industrial Design in 1997. Since, he has lifted the dull, formulaic feel of the computer and thrown it out of his pearly white window.

Starting with the translucent designs of the late 1990s, he then introduced the fruit-themed colors of the early twenty-first century. At each turn, Jonathan Ive marches beside Steve Jobs in their crusade to reinvent the industrial aesthetic, and with them is a team of graphic and industrial designers committed to maintaining the enlivened brand.

Since these early designs, we have been privy to his iPhone and iPad, and the graphic design that accompanies each. Whether through packaging, promotional materials, or advertising, Jonathan Ive is the first to say that he is part of a design team, and that together they are creating beautiful toys.

Let the design team at Apple be the proof that you just never know where that graphic design education can take you.

By All Graphic Design Staff Posted in Design Careers, Design Education, Graphic Design No Comments

Graphic Design Dream Team - Part I

April 15, 2010 – 3:08 pm

The Best in the Biz

If you love basketball, you might idolize LeBron James. If you are an avid golfer, you probably try to emulate Tiger’s swing. Even these days, the guy’s got a great swing.  But, if your passion is graphic design, you can’t tune into the graphic design competition on the graphic design channel, slip off your graphic design sneakers, and take a swig from your graphic-designer-endorsed soda.  Let’s be honest.

That doesn’t mean that there aren’t big names in the business, and we’re going to take a closer look at a few of them.

Neville Brody - The Rebel

A native son of London, Mr. Brody received a BA from London College of Printing, despite his professors’ insistence that his work was “uncommercial.” In fact, for placing the Queen’s head sidewise on a postage project, he was nearly expelled. Fortunately the punk era emerged, and Brody found an outlet.  He dove into record-design and art direction for The Face magazine, and his career was launched.  His work has since been exhibited globally, and he has studios worldwide.

Sometimes, taking risks means getting noticed.

Milton Glazer - The Romantic

If you have been alive for more than ten minutes, you have most likely seen at least a spinoff of Milton Glazer’s most famous graphic design. The creator of the “I Love New York” logo could have stopped there. But, Milton continues to knock out hits like the iconic Bob Dylan poster and the beloved Brooklyn Brewery logo.  Recently awarded the National Medal of Arts by President Obama, Mr. Glazer is basically the dude.

Sometimes, it pays to wear your heart on your sleeve.

By All Graphic Design Staff Posted in Best of Logo Design, Best of the Best Designs, Design Education, Graphic Design, Graphic Design Resources No Comments

Graphic Design Software - Part II

April 11, 2010 – 9:03 am

With so many toys on the market for the graphic design student or professional designer, one post wasn’t enough.   Let’s take a look at other new, free, or simply awesome software available for download.

WizFlow Flowcharter

For your corporate clients in need of presentation help, WizFlow can be your best friend. The newly released software helps the user create flowcharts and other diagrams with ease and efficiency. Free for 30 days, and $49.95 to buy, this program allows you to focus on the aesthetic of the diagram while it takes care of the tedious work.

SWiSH Max

After almost a year in circulation, this flash software remains a critic’s pick. Try it for free for 15 days before dropping the $149.95 on the package–industry insiders are confident you’ll be sold.  SWiSH Max is a full-fledged flash studio that houses its own scripting language and user-friendly platform.  Unfortunately, 15 days may not be long enough to experiment with the program, but at this low price, a longer test drive isn’t necessary.

Total Screen Recorder

Fully compatible for Windows 7, and with an audio component, Total Screen Recorder allows the user to record video directly from her or his computer. Promising no watermark and no lag time while the recorder is in use, this software is free for 14 days, and $29.95 to buy.  Teachers in online graphic design schools can give tutorials using Total Screen Recorder or conduct an online seminar. Either way, this tool creates new opportunities in the world of video messaging.

For more on software, check out our other posts!

By All Graphic Design Staff Posted in Corporate Identity Design, Design Education, Design Software, Free Design Stuff, Graphic Design, Graphic Design Tutorials No Comments

Graphic Design Software - Part I

April 7, 2010 – 12:00 pm

Toys! This week we are taking a look at some of the most popular software on the market for the graphic design community.

Primo PDFPrimoPDF

Over 17 million users are taking advantage of this software that transforms just about any file imaginable into a PDF. Ranked #1 in PDF software by CNET, this free technology features a desktop icon that can quickly convert your files as soon as they’re dragged and dropped.

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X5

Currently being offered as a free 30-day trial, CorelDRAW X5 allows you to illustrate, trace, and design for any form of media.  The new version comes complete with professionally designed templates and tutorials in case you need some help.  Whether you’re working on logos, booklets, bumper stickers, or billboards, CorelDRAW is considered by CNET to be a “must-have version.”  When your 30 days are up, $499 might not seem that bad for this tool.

MTool Banner Maker 1.8

The newest of our featured software, MTool Banner Maker 1.8, has been given 5 out of 5 stars by CNET, making us pretty intrigued.  Free to try, and just $39.95 to buy, this banner maker extraordinaire does it all–creating Flash banners, slideshows, animation, text effects, and GIF banners–and you don’t need any Flash knowledge or skills.  A built-in preview window allows you to see your work immediately, and customization tools allow you to make it any size you need!

Countless graphic design software resources are available and many downloads are free, fast, and easy. And if you’ve thought of it but can’t find it, create it yourself!

By All Graphic Design Staff Posted in Colors and Design, Design Software, Design Tools & Utilities, Drawing and Sketching, Free Design Stuff, Graphic Design, Graphic Design Resources No Comments

Graphic Design School - Part II

March 31, 2010 – 11:22 am
Graphic Design School - Part II
You are confident that some form of training can help you land a job in this competitive market. But, you have a job. You have a family. You have something that prevents you from enrolling in a full-time, traditional program.  Enter the online program!  We are lucky enough to live in the era of online schooling, and this includes graphic design education, so take advantage!

Online Graphic Design School

From the Art Institutes to the International Academy of Design and Technology to the University of Phoenix, there are accredited and respected graphic design online programs everywhere, just waiting for your application. Don’t let your hectic schedule stop you from taking a certification course or a full-blown degree program. These schools are designed for the busy student and want to accommodate your needs.

How to Choose the Right Online Graphic Design School

The criteria for choosing your online program are a little different than those you might use to assess a traditional program. Consider the following:

  • What kind of certificate can you receive?
  • Who are the faculty and what is the teacher involvement with the students?
  • How long does it typically take to complete a course?
  • What materials do you need?
  • What is the cost of the course/program?

Once you have answers to these questions, you can make an educated decision about the best program for you.

The Reason

No one can say that a graphic designer with formal, educational training is “better” than one without. But, in the eyes of an employer you are most likely a stronger candidate if there is some form of graphic design school on that resume.

By All Graphic Design Staff Posted in Design Careers, Design Education, Graphic Design, Uncategorized No Comments

Graphic Design School

March 31, 2010 – 10:54 am

Graphic Design Schools - Part I

Experience may be the best teacher in your graphic design career, but there is a lot to be said for formal training.  Given the countless programs available, choosing what’s best for you can be tricky.  Let’s break it down.

Top Graphic Design Schools

According to US News, the top schools for graphic design are:

  • Rhode Island School of Design
  • Cranbrook Academy of Art
  • Yale University
  • Virginia Commonwealth University
  • Carnegie Mellon University
  • Maryland Institute College of Art
  • School of Visual Arts
  • California Institute of the Arts
  • Pratt Institute
  • California College of the Arts

Criteria for Choosing Your School

There are countless others that provide an excellent education, so how do you choose? Some factors to consider may be:

  • Geography: Is the school close to your job, favored climate, or family?
  • Curriculum: Does the school provide courses that cater to your specific needs?
  • Student Body: How large is the program and what do students typically do upon graduating?
  • Finances: What is the tuition at each school and what are the financial aid options?

When to Attend Graphic Design School

In this increasingly competitive market, graphic design training is a good idea whether you’re a veteran in the biz or a student. If you have been out of school and practicing for a few years, enroll in courses at a local college to stay up to date with new technologies or techniques. Or, if you are a student and want to further your graphic design education, take a hard look at the full-time programs to see where you fit best.

By All Graphic Design Staff Posted in Design Careers, Design Education, Graphic Design, Graphic Design 101, Graphic Design Resources 1 Comment

Creating a Graphic Design Resume

March 28, 2010 – 3:35 pm

Many graphic design colleges instruct their graduating students on the appropriate content, outline, and presentation for their portfolios as they prepare to enter the market.  This is great! This is important! But, it’s not all you need.  With equal attention to detail, recall your academic and work experiences and attack your professional resume.

Every Little Detail

Just as graphic design schools weed out applicants by reviewing their stats, an employer typically scans your resume before opening your portfolio.  The last thing you want to do is ruin your chances with a typo or an overlooked design flaw.  Let’s start with the paper. Choose something that fits your personality, but nothing over the top. Typically a white or cream color on a thicker stock can help distinguish your resume from the others.

Next, as you detail your history, remember that you are applying for a graphic design position. This is a chance to showcase your talents! Use a more advanced program than Word for composing your resume, and play with the format and fonts.

The Content

Aside from your name and contact information, include the following in your resume:

  • Education information
  • Work experience
  • Software skills
  • Awards and publications
  • References

There are a few bits of personal information to avoid including. Most employers are not impressed by the general “objective.”  This often answers a question they would rather ask you in person, and simply seems hokey.  Also, avoid listing interests or experiences that are not relevant to design. Employers often see this as filler, not substance.

Creating a stand-out portfolio is essential to increasing your job options.  Just don’t forget that piece of paper that tells future employers who’s behind the work.

By All Graphic Design Staff Posted in Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, Design Careers, Design Education, Design Project Management, Graphic Design, Graphic Design 101, Graphic Design Resources, Salaries & Wages & Rates, Self Promotion & Marketing 3 Comments

Graphic Design Competitions

March 28, 2010 – 3:34 pm

What better way to get the word out about you than to enter a design competition? Whether you are a student at graphic design school, looking to make a career change to graphic design, or a veteran in the field, competitions can be a great way to challenge yourself, network, and exercise your creativity.

AIGA 365

AIGA, the professional association for design, has an annual cross-category competition that many feel is the Olympics of design. AIGA 365 invites applicants from across the globe to send in their best, boldest, and most unique work that was published in the past year. Upon receipt, an esteemed panel of industry heavyweights judges each piece. From promotional design and advertising to entertainment design, the winning works are sometimes edgy, often provocative, and always eye-catching.

AIGA 50 Books/50 Covers

Another AIGA contest, 50 Books/50 Covers highlights the best book covers of the past year, and awards the most deserving, according to their panel of judges.  Stiff competition among over 900 entries made 2008 a particularly tough year for the arbiters, but in the end 91 books were selected for their inventive and distinct designs. Don’t hesitate if you’re up for the test. Entries are still being accepted for 2009.

Communication Arts Design Competition

Some people live by Vogue magazine. Others, Sports Illustrated. You wait like a kid for the ice cream truck until the Communication Arts Design Annual is delivered to your doorstep.  Well, here is your chance to be on the inside looking out. The annual Communication Arts Design Competition selects the most outstanding graphic design work from an array of entries, and the winners are subsequently published in their annual publication.

These are just three of many design competitions. Don’t let yourself get comfortable. Challenge your mind, test your creativity, and take a chance. Who knows? You just might win.

By All Graphic Design Staff Posted in Best of Annual Report Designs, Best of Catalog Design, Best of Logo Design, Best of Promotional Design, Best of the Best Designs, Best of the Best Designs, Graphic Design, Graphic Design Resources, Hot in Design Daily, Self Promotion & Marketing, best of brochure design, best of direct mail design No Comments

Starting a Graphic Design Business: Part II

March 12, 2010 – 9:35 pm

You’re in the Money

In our last post we identified some of the advisors you need on your team as you start a graphic design business.  Lucky for you, the logistical fun doesn’t end there.  Armed with your graphic design education and ready to take on your first project, you first need a pricing structure. Design firms typically charge on a fixed-fee basis. So, how do you figure out what that should be?

What Are You Worth?

First, consider the time it takes to complete different projects. From logos to collateral to business cards, what is it going to cost your firm in hours?  AIGA offers some tips on how to stick a price tag on your creative muscles. As mentioned in their Center for Practice Management, factor in potential redesigns or delays caused by the client and spell out the cost of these situations upfront. Setting expectations early benefits you in the long run.

Overhead Costs

Next, what else do you need? Brainstorm all production or material costs associated with each project, and make them a line item in your fee structure. And don’t just go with the first printer you call.  Just as you researched graphic design schools, research your potential business partners.  Get to know your local resources and put your best negotiating foot forward. Cutting costs on overhead expenses can help you reduce your prices, making you stiffer competition.

Why Does It Matter?

With new technology and more graphic design colleges than ever before, talent is abounding.  According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, competition within the industry will be stiff, meaning that you need to distinguish your firm by any means. Be organized. Be a professional. Invest time to understand your graphic design business.

By All Graphic Design Staff Posted in Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, Design Careers, Design Project Management, Graphic Design, Salaries & Wages & Rates, Salaries & Wages & Rates, Self Promotion & Marketing No Comments

Starting Your Graphic Design Business: Part I

March 12, 2010 – 9:33 pm

Learning the Biz

Graphic Design schools can sharpen your artistic talents, but what about your business acumen?  If starting a design business appeals to you, however, both sides of your brain need to be functioning.  In order to get You, Inc. off the ground, knowing the nuts and bolts of business ownership is just as essential as being a whiz in Illustrator.

What You Need to Know

Remember when you had a lemonade stand?  You had to stock enough cups, reach the delicate balance between sweet and tangy, and be home before dark.  You were not concerned with obtaining signatures on contracts or whether the sidewalk was a viable office location.  Unfortunately, running your own business is a little different. To avoid unnecessary trouble, take a look at the resources offered through AIGA, the professional association for design.  Here, you can not only find tips, but a Center for Practice Management.

The Firm Hand of the Law

They may focus on aesthetics in graphic design colleges, but in business, they want your t’s crossed and i’s dotted.  To understand the legal process of running your business, seek advice. Find other graphic designers who have done something similar by joining an online community.  Then, turn to an expert such as:

  • Attorneys
  • Certified Public Accountants
  • Bankers
  • Business Insurance Agents
  • Industry Consultants

A few topics this army of advisors will discuss are your company’s legal structure, tax details, and becoming an employer.  Who knew this was significant to your graphic design education? Your new office may look like four walls sandwiched between a floor and ceiling, but there are numerous logistics bolting that structure together.

By All Graphic Design Staff Posted in Uncategorized No Comments