Posts Tagged Graphic Design
Graphic / Web Design Companies and the Art of Web Design
Posted by in Uncategorized on November 10, 2009
The art of website design doesn’t actually have a long history. It is because the invention of World Wide Web (www) took place only in the early 1980’s and it’s only a decade that the Internet has gradually become part of our day to day lives. We can, therefore, say that the art of web design is still in its early youth. Yet the art so far has undergone a number of transformations over the years. Earlier, HTML offered users limited involvement on the website. But the scenario has changed these days with other developments like Flash, Flex, Ajax and more. The web is getting bigger by each day and the users are luring more web design companies to make themselves available on the net.
Internet has made our business easy. Every breed of business persons are trying to reach to the global customers. So we can find a variety of web businesses these days like affiliate marketing, online trading, e commerce business etc. A web business has got its own advantages and disadvantages. It gives you an opening to the global market. But in a web based business, the venders don’t have the advantage of impressing the clients in person. The prime target of a web design company, therefore, is to bring forth the information of a website to the viewers in the most organized manner possible. But that is not all that a web design company aims at. In this age of “feel good effect”, displaying a mere collection of information is not enough. The viewers are always attracted to the visuals in a website. The design and graphics thus plays a significant role in making a website popular. This is where the significance of the graphic/web design companies and professionals comes. Imagine a book full of information but with no picture and another with information and images organized in an attractive manner. It’s quite obvious that you will buy the second one. Well, the web design companies and professionals are those who are here responsible to organize the information with images to meet the required technology specification.
In this world of neck to neck competition, all the web design companies aim at complete satisfaction to their customers. So the graphical brilliance and the information are not all they need to take care of. There are a few other major particulars like accessibility or usability and visibility which play an equally important role in making it popular. Web accessibility describes the degree to which a website is convenient or handy to the users. Usability, on the other hand, is an attribute related to quality that evaluates how easy-to-use a user interface is.The easily consumers can access the website the better business it will bring. This “user friendly” nature of a website therefore is something a web designer must take care of. Another major factor that the web design companies are bound to consider is the visibility of the website that they are making. Web visibility means being findable and viewable online by your target audience That is, the web site must be easy to find through all major search engines. The higher the rank, the more reach it will gain.
There are a number of web design companies or graphic design companies around the world and they all claim to provide finest services that suit your budget. Such promises are quite overwhelming but sometimes confusing too. A smart way to narrow your search down can be to see the portfolio of those web design companies. There you can find some of their best designs which might give you an idea about their creative potential.
There might be yet another problem. Every person is not equally proficient in understanding the technicalities and may be still interested to have his or her own website. What should they see in the portfolios? Well, you can check a few things that don’t require any technical knowledge. First, you can see whether the sites in the portfolios are loading quickly or not because your customers may not have the patience to wait for your site to load. Next comes the clarity in navigation. You should find required information very quickly from a site. An obscure and unclear website can upset the clients. You must be cautious about that. After that, you can check whether the site works in all major browsers like Internet Explorer, Opera or Firefox. If not, it is certain that the site is not friendly to all web browsers which can affect your business. A good website usually doesn’t have too many popup windows. They are eyesore to the web browsers and overusing popup windows in your web site will surely do no good to your website. A person not well off with internet can also check these small yet significant points which helps to make a decision.
All these factors should be under consideration when you plan to make your own website. A technically sound web design company takes care of all these factors. But as a client, you must be entirely satisfied with the services of a particular graphic design company before you make your pick. The basic tests mentioned here can give you a guideline to find the web design or graphic design company that suits you most and gives you the worth of your hard earned money.
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How to Choose a Graphic Design Firm
Posted by in Uncategorized on November 8, 2009
First, let me say that I am an independent graphic designer. My business model dictates that I only hire additional artists and professionals on a per-project basis, so I expand and contract as needed. It allows my business to be highly competitive and flexible in the talent I select. Admittedly, I’m interested in gaining your business, however I can be objective in shedding some light on the process of choosing design services. This article is based on my years of experience and observations within the design community. The Graphic Designer The core of any creative work is the designer. Each one comes with a varying degree of talent and experience, whether they’re independent or part of a firm. Many independents or “freelancers”, as some call them, have years of experience with established firms. Personally, I don’t like the term freelancer, because it carries the stigma of a lack of talent, experience, and professionalism. It also leaves the impression that they cannot find gainful employment. Freelance Design Designers aren’t certified or licensed (I think we should be), so anyone can call themselves a graphic designer. Unfortunately, there are some who have the above traits, and they are cheaper to use in the short-term. The long-term downside is that your project may be beyond the scope of their abilities. In addition, they may not have a good understanding of the creative process, fail to anticipate technical issues and normal expenses, and use unlicensed materials to cut costs. All of this can translate into a disappointing solution, and possibly legal issues in the future. When it comes to something as valuable as the perception of your company and future sales of your product or service, “cheap” should never be the focus. Professional Design Professional designers can be with a firm or independent. They typically have formal training in design or visual communications, and may have additional experience in related fields such as advertising or marketing. They follow the customs and procedures of the design industry, use specific contracts, and devote the needed time to the creative process. A professional will be more expensive, but cost shouldn’t be a top consideration in hiring design services. Good design doesn’t cost money…it makes money…far more than the initial design investment, through increased revenue and exposure to potential customers. Large Firms (Size Matters … Sometimes) A large design firm will give you a sense of stability just by the sheer size of their portfolio, number of staff, and resources available. They offer a wide variety of services across several media such as radio, TV, print, etc.. If that’s your situation a large firm should be your focus. On the other hand, if your project is within a specific area or two such as web, print, or multimedia, a small firm or independent designer may be an excellent choice. Another consideration is teamwork. As the saying goes, “two heads are better than one.” Depending on the scope of the project different perspectives during the concept phase can be a distinct advantage. While multi-person firms assign a design team, many independent designers overcome this by having their work critiqued by fellow designers or submitting their work to online design forums for review. Small Firms and Independents Small firms and independents may not have a sample of your specific need, so it’s important to look at the solutions they’ve provided other clients. They tend to be more motivated in getting your business, so you’ll often get a more personal level of service, and work directly with the person responsible for your project. Furthermore, you’ll generally pay less due to reduced overhead costs. In many cases independent designers will have more design experience than the combined years of a design team at an agency. Many talented designers tend to either move up the ladder or start their own firm due to pay ceilings at a firm. Variety of talent is another consideration. Large firms may have one or two copywriters or illustrators on staff to choose from. Small firms and independents have the flexibility of offering several established outside vendors to specifically fit your individual tastes, style and preferences. Also, consider that the designer or designers working at a large firm may not be particularly interested or excited about your project, or even proficient in that area of design; they don’t have control of what’s assigned to them. While this may or may not be the case at a small firm, an independent designer will typically have a high level of interest and motivation, because they want to expand their portfolio and client list…especially if your project type or industry is new to them. If they contacted you it’s likely they’ve already done some background research on your company. Finally, with advances in computer technology and declining prices, independents and small firms use the same or higher levels of hardware and software as large firms. They also don’t have to go through the approval process and internal IT departments, so their upgrades happen in days rather than months. Conclusion When you are looking for design services remember that you don’t have to know exactly what you need; that’s what a design professional is for. They will offer specific solutions according to your needs. If price is a concern, be up front about it and ask for a range of two or three estimates. Be aware that the lower figures mean that less time will be devoted to research and concept development; it doesn’t mean that the designer is reducing their hourly rate. Less time translates into a less creative and unique piece. Start by interviewing several designers and design firms before making a decision. Ask them what their hourly rate for creative work is, and view their portfolios. If you’re happy with the solutions they’ve provided other clients, comfortable with the way they present themselves, and think you’d enjoy working with them…hire them. Clients who understand the value of good design realize that a talented designer has the ability to influence their existing and potential market; create a positive perception of their business, and ultimately increase their revenue.
About the Author Derald Schultz is the founder and principal of Mediarail Design, Inc. A design firm based in Atlanta, Georgia specializing in graphic design, web design, and commercial printing services. Mr. Schultz holds degrees in Printing & Publishing, and Visual Communications. He worked within the design and printing communities for over 25 years before launching his own firm. Mediarail Design serves a wide variety clients across the country. © 2006-2008 Derald Schultz, Mediarail Design, Inc.
High-tech Digital Design Degrees
Posted by in Uncategorized on November 5, 2009
Whether you know it or not, digital design plays a huge role in your daily life. The street signs you see every day, logos of small and large businesses, and even the food in your refrigerator is stamped, imprinted, and marked with the work of digital artists.Design used to be a pen-and-paper field, with workers spending hours over logos and designs we may still recognize today. With increasingly sophisticated technology, however, digital designers can complete tasks more efficiently than ever before.Necessary Training for a High-Tech ArtThe benefits of digitized design are obvious: designers can work from home on projects. Freelance designers can move from project to project without giving up months of their time. Projects can be completed faster and modified more easily to meet the changing needs of clients.With all that convenience, however, comes some necessary requirements. Education and training become more important as computer-aided design programs grow more sophisticated. With workers aspiring to enter the field, competition increases, and a strong portfolio becomes essential for employment.Popular Digital Design SpecializationsYour focused digital design training depends highly on your individual educational and career goals. The Bureau of Labor Statistics recommends a bachelor’s degree for those interested in entry-level design positions, and notes that those with Web design and animation experience are expected to see the best job opportunities.Certificates and degrees in desktop publishing and graphic design are recommended for aspiring desktop publishers, who largely work with newspaper, periodical, book, and directory publishers.Coursework in Digital DesignThough all educational programs are different, students of digital design should expect to receive a standard education including coursework relevant to the industry. Courses may include animated Web graphics, developing a corporate identity through design, optimizing website performance, effective uses of typography, and more. Typical Digital Design SalariesDesktop publishers earned an average of $37,470 in 2007, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Those working for advertising and related services earned slightly more, at $42,840. That same year, graphic designers earned $45,340. The portfolio-building experience you earn with a degree in digital design can have real rewards in the competitive design and publishing industries.Improve Your PortfolioDo you already have a basic knowledge of the programs and techniques you need to become a Flash animator, Web designer, art director, or computer illustrator? You may still need the fundamentals only offered by formal education. Career training in digital design can give you portfolio experience, a chance to build the body of work you’ll eventually show to hiring managers and potential clients.Even if you have some existing knowledge of the industry, an education offers proof of your talent, commitment, and experience to potential employers. A digital design degree offers much more than an art-school education–rather, it can create a foundation for the rest of your career.
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How to Choose a Graphic Designer
Posted by in Uncategorized on November 4, 2009
Never worked with a graphic design firm before? If so, you may be unsure which criteria are most important. Portfolio? Price? Proximity? Reputation? Needless to say, your own company’s reputation may be riding on this decision. So here are a few tips to make your choice of a graphic design or marketing firm less stressful and ensure that you choose a good match for your project and your company.
The Portfolio
Begin by looking at the online portfolios of several reputable graphic design firms. Don’t even think about price yet; simply focus on finding quality work – work which looks smart, sophisticated and visually enticing.
Price should never be your primary criterion in commissioning creative work. If the work is first-rate, it will generate profits for your company which far exceed your initial investment. Good design is the most cost-effective form of marketing. So hire the best firm you can, and the results will speak for themselves.
Don’t assume that you need to find a design firm with years of experience in your particular industry or a brochure in their portfolio that looks exactly like the brochure you want for your company. Instead, look for an abundance of creative talent and design versatility.
You also shouldn’t feel limited by geography. Working with the firm around the corner can be wonderful, but in today’s digital universe, it’s just as easy to communicate via phone, fax or emailed PDF files.
Freelancers vs. Design Firms
The advantage of using a freelancer is obvious: they typically have less overhead and lower rates than a bona fide design firm.
However, unless this is a simple one-time engagement, you should steer clear of freelancers, who may not be able to provide the full spectrum of services or creativity your company needs. Even if he/she does satisfactory work, a freelancer’s output will screech to a halt when they’re sick or on vacation, and your company may not be in a position to wait patiently for their return.
Freelancers may be self-taught or have one “signature style” which imparts a predictability to their work. Multi-person design firms, on the other hand, are generally more flexible in handling a multitude of projects and deadlines. They hire the most talented graduates from the leading design schools, who are highly-educated in all the latest design techniques as well as the finer points of typography, color theory, graphic design history, and so on. Chances are, this sort of design team can handle any creative challenge you throw at them.
The Interview
Instead of simply firing off an RFP (Request for Proposal), call up the firm with the best portfolio and chat informally with the owner or creative director.
Tell them a little about your project and notice whether they spend time asking intelligent questions about you and your company’s challenges. If their primary focus is on bragging about what they’ve done for other companies or how many design awards they’ve won, beware: you may be dealing with a design prima donna who cares more about his/her personal agenda than your company’s success.
Ideally, the designer should be peppering you with questions about your competitors, your customers and your sustainable advantages in the marketplace. They should come across as hard-headed, pragmatic business people as well as creative thinkers.
Ultimately, all their design decisions (regarding the use of color, typography, photography and design motifs) should be strategic decisions, aimed at reaching your target audience with a compelling call to action.
Good design is always based on careful research and sound business strategy. It’s never superficial decoration. So the best designers are problem-solvers, highly intelligent and well-educated as well as artistically inspired. They possess a rare combination of right-brain and left-brain intelligence which should be evident even in your initial consultation.
With these simple facts in mind, you’re bound to hire a great design firm for your company.
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13 Tips for Finding a Graphic Designer
Posted by in Uncategorized on November 3, 2009
Are you ready to hire someone to design your logo, collaterals, or artwork for your website? Well, here’s just the information you need to get the best results from hiring your first (or your first successful) graphic designer.
To assure that we begin on the same page, a graphic designer designs your marketing materials – the print- and web-ready art which are then turned over to a printer or coded for the web for the final outcome. Some of their vocabulary can be foreign to you, and their processes may not be familiar either. We’ll address that and more with these tactics.
This advice gives you the essentials for hiring the right person for this critical project. The more qualified the designer, and the better the match between you and your designer will lead to more appealing final designs. the more professional you and your business will look.
1. Look at their work samples. Many designers offer a portfolio of samples either on their website, by email as a PDF, or in a hard-copy format. When you review these, look for a general design style that you like, not necessarily whether they have lots of experience within your particular industry. In fact, deep experience within an industry isn’t necessarily the best thing when you want a designer to put a fresh visual spin on your business and your issues.
2. Make sure they’ve actually done the work in their portfolio. This is especially true if you’re reviewing design companies or firms. Make sure that the designers who are still on staff created the work that you really admire.
Where this can come into play with solo designers is if the portfolio isn’t clear about their involvement in the development of all the design elements. For example, if they’re showing a brochure design or a website in their portfolio, but you love the logo; make sure that they created the logo before hiring them.
And, ask what the client’s involvement in the design of that logo is-if the client came to the designer with a sketch of the logo already created, then the logo may not be reproducible by the designer or firm alone.
3. Talk to the designer. Having an actual conversation with them can really help for two reasons:
To make sure you can communicate well with each other. If you each have very similar styles of communication, levels of energy, or enthusiasm about the project, then the project will most likely run very smoothly (or has a great potential for success). Also, make sure that you each understand what the other is saying-having similar definitions for concepts is amazingly helpful. When you don’t understand something, ask questions! To see if the two of you “gel” together. You’ll be working closely, so make sure that you get along! If you don’t like their personalities or vice-versa, then the relationship will most likely become strained and difficult. 4. Review their skills. This becomes especially important if you’re hiring a web designer-make sure the designer is qualified to provide you with all the technical components you’ll need. For example, web coding, forms coding, HTML newsletter integration and Search Engine Optimization are all somewhat technical fields that not all designers can deliver. Make sure you’ll be able to get what you need.
5. Check their references. If you really like a particular project in their portfolio, see if you can get that client’s contact information. But, if the designer can’t release it, that’s not necessarily the worst sign-maybe the client prefers that their contact information be kept private. Or they’ve moved, and haven’t told the designer how to get in touch with them. Be open to reasons why they may not be able to furnish a particular reference.
6. Learn about their processes. Find out how they plan to execute on the work that you’d like to have done. Ask what the designer needs you to do, what you’ll be asked to review and approve, how decisions are made, and how they’re made final. Make sure your designer is able to guide you through the design process, providing all the information you’ll need along the way.
7. Check their turn-around time for replying to emails, sending quotes, and returning calls. Make sure that it’s in line with the turn-around time that you expect throughout the project. Turn-around time here can also indicate the designer’s level of excitement about your project. However, if it’s a bit slow, make sure they weren’t just out of their office at meetings for the day, or tied up in another deadline-understand that they’re a small business as well, and the fact that they’re busy is probably a sign of how effective they are for their clients!
8. Review the rights that they’re selling to you. Make sure that you have the copyright and reproduction rights that you want. Think as far into the future as possible-you want to make sure that you’ll have what you need as your business grows. You don’t want to have to come back to your designer and re-negotiate your rights in a few years!
9. You may be tempted to ask for some sample designs for your specific project. This is known as work on “spec” (speculation) -having a designer do work without a guarantee of getting the project. While designers can understand your fears-what if you don’t like the logo we develop, what if we don’t “get” what you want, what if…
Asking a designer to work on spec isn’t very fair. The first round of designs on any project is the most time-consuming to create-it often consists of researching your company and your competitors, brainstorming on the creative side, and generating first ideas. You wouldn’t ask a doctor to diagnose you before paying for his time, and then offer to pay him if you like the diagnosis-it’s no more fair to do so with a designer.
10. Make sure that you’ll get the deliverables you expect. Some designers don’t plan to include final files in their deliverables to you-if you want to have the original files delivered to you along with printed collateral or the final files uploaded to your web server, make sure the designer knows that up-front. It may change the pricing.
If you want to be able to edit the final files, make sure that the designer can deliver the files to you in a way that you can edit them. Realize that, depending on the software that you have, this may either limit the design or be impossible, but you probably won’t get the files in the specific format you want unless you ask!
And, if you envision having your final files in a particular format-such as having your letterhead in Microsoft Word-be sure to ask for that. Many designers don’t consider Word files to be part of a standard set of deliverables.
11. Have a realistic schedule and check the designer’s turnaround time. Allocate enough time for your project to be completed-rush jobs never turn out to be as good as they could be if enough time were allotted. An average logo project takes weeks, not days!
Also, be sure that they have time available in their schedule to complete your project on your timeline. Check for upcoming vacations, and whether they work evenings and weekends if your timeline calls for that.
12. Make sure that you’re both clear about revisions. Many designers include a set number of revisions in their project packages. Make sure that you understand what constitutes a revision, how many you’ll get and what happens once they’re all used up.
13. Get it in writing. A contract can help to lay out expectations for the project on both your end and the designer’s. Once you have a contract from your designer, make sure to read it carefully-it will often state exactly what you’re going to get out of the project, how you’re expected to pay for designs, what you’re paying for, and how to get out of the contract (in case you have to cancel the project for any reason). And, if it doesn’t make things clear, ask the designer to elaborate for you.
Following these steps gives you all of the background information you need for optimum results when hiring a designer. Use them as a reference when you review designer’s websites, meet with, or interview your potential designer. Understanding the process and expected outcome does wonders for a smooth transition from ideas to reality.
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How to Choose a Graphic Designer?
Posted by in Uncategorized on October 9, 2009
Gaphic design is an essential part of every marketing plan. It can greatly increase the professional look of your business, or express your bands creative style. Right from the first glance it will leave an impression.
Finding the right design company or freelance designer, can be a little daunting if you do not know what to look for. I am a freelance design and I could simply end here saying you want to use me. However, I would rather you choose me only after you are informed and know what you need to know.Portfolio
Every designer must have a portfolio, both printed and online. This is how they sell themselves, by showcasing their work. The better the designer, the larger the portfolio will be. It may contain work they have created for themselves, or just for fun, but should be largely comprised of work they have done for their clients. Look over a designers portfolio and see what they have done, and more importantly, see if the work they have done, is the type of work you are looking for. If you see wild designs for bands, but need a corporate marketing package, you should probably keep looking.Quality
If your looking for a graphic designer, it means your looking to have something done right. Make sure when looking at a portfolio you see professional quality graphics. Graphics that sell you on what they were supposed to. If you see poor quality images put together or basic clip art graphics being used in a portfolio, then that is likely what you will get as well.Price
Price is a big issue with everyone. You could say “You get what you pay for” or you could say “You get more than you could have hoped for”. Getting the lowest price does not always mean getting the least work. IF you choose to use a large company, expect to pay more. If you are going with a freelance designer, expect to pay less. The best way to determine if the price is right, is to check the portfolio, then request a free quote. Compare the quote to the quality of work in the portfolio. If you see good work, and a good price, you have a good designer.Background / References
After you have looked into the portfolio and are happy with the price and quality, check into the background of the company or designer. If you intend to have more than 1 project done or are looking to start up a long term project, it is important to check and see how long the designer has been around, if they have any other long term repeat clients. This way you can ensure they will be around for the duration of your project and an future need you may have.Response Time
It is important that a designer responds to your requests and queries as soon as possible so you know you are important to them. If they take days to respond to your email or voice mail, they are either too busy to work with you, or are simply not very professional. Either way, they are not for you.Efficiency & Clarity
Make sure the designer is able to understand what you are looking for. Nothing worse than have a mental picture of what you need, only to get back samples that are so different you wonder what went wrong, and need to explain it again. A good designer will read your needs, confirm everything with you and ask question or provide suggestions before any work will begin.
These are all important points to consider when choosing the right graphic designer. It may take some time to find the right one, but if you do your homework, you will get the right product for the right price from the right designer.
When you are looking for a professional Graphic Desiigner, keeps these points in mind and you will find the right one for your project.
Ready to get a free quote? Get one from Creative Compulsions today.
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How to Get a Job as a Graphic Designer
Posted by in Uncategorized on October 6, 2009
Just the other day I received a question on Twitter from Adam at Design4Love:
“Hi.. how are you? Do you have any tips for me how to get into the UK design industry (Other than sending applications to agencies). Thanks!”
Which got me thinking about how difficult it was for me and some of the fellow graphic design students I studied with to get a job in the design industry back in 1999 (yes that long ago!) straight out of design college. I snapped up a job with a Central London design agency in Soho within 2 weeks of leaving college but looking back it wasn’t really the right job for me then. Though just 13 months later I changed positions and worked for a great design agency based in London Bridge and learned a huge amount as well as working on lots of different types of projects as a designer.
Anyway competition was fierce then BUT the amount of graphic design and other design courses available in art colleges and universities up and down the college has grown hugely since then.
So here are a few tips on (like Adam asked) “how to get into the UK Design industry”
The Portfolio: Having a great design portfolio is a must. To be honest your design portfolio is the most important thing on this list, its what you’ll mainly be judged on. It must be well presented and include at least 6 or more design projects. Think about the kind of work the agency your applying to does and try to tailor your portfolio towards that. For example if they specialise in corporate identity and branding work try to include work of this kind.
Be ready to talk about your design work, what inspired you, why you approached the project in the way you did, even choice of typeface, colours, imagery etc. Show them some of your sketchs and development work, some agencies what to see your scribbles more than the finished work as it shows your design process and how you think!
Before taking your portfolio along to job interviews, make sure you show it to a people (tutors, other design students) talk them through it, get them to ask you questions about your design work and respond with suitable answers. This will get you used to talking people through your portfolio, making you a more prepared for the interview.
Work Experience: Offer to do some work experience with a design company who’s work you really admire (for free if you have to!), even if its just a week then spend that week wowing them, making the tea, producing great work, take an interest in everything relating to that design company. It is a good way to get your foot in the door but also don’t be too pushy or cocky, you might think your a great designer but remember there is a big difference between design college and the real world!
If the company really like you during your work experience they might offer you a full time job!
Finding Work: Send your portfolio as a PDF etc to as many design companies (that your interested in) as possible, then after a few days give them a quick call to check they have received it.
Another alternative and one that worked for me is to approach a design recruitment agency. I contacted Major Players (there are many others!) when looking for a new graphic design position. They interviewed me and I took them through my portfolio and skills set, based on this they then contacted me when suitable jobs became available. This worked very well as they got me a new job within 2 weeks.
Dress code:There isn’t one as such. Wear what your comfortable in but also look like you have made some sort of effort! That said I wouldn’t recommend turning up in a suit! Remember what you wear can be seen as a reflection of yourself and your design style or preferences.
Behaviour: Be yourself, be calm and open to discussing your work and the work of the design agency. Remember to ask questions about what work they produce and what your role would be. One thing I found useful was to ask if someone could take you around the studio, afterall that is where you’ll be working if you get the job and you need to see what sort of environment you’ll be working in. It also easier to ask questions as you move around and see how they work.
Research: Remember to do some research on the company that is interviewing you, as they are likely to ask you what made you apply for a job with them, what sort of work do they produce, what awards have they won (if any), why do you want to work for them in particular?
Keep trying: Above all keep trying and keep looking at ways to improve your portfolio. If you go for an interview and they don’t give you a job, don’t worry, your work just might not be suitable for that particular design agency.
So hope this has helped, good luck!
Dot Design is owned and run by Gareth Coxon who has 8 years professional design experience – 5 years working for two different design agencies in London and now 3 years working in the South West.
We work with businesses all over the UK and Internationally – from small start-ups through to medium sized and larger companies. We don’t use pretentious designer talk and we keep all aspects as simple and straight forward as possible. We will work with you and we understand that no one knows your business like you do.
Dot Design provide you with high quality, well thought through design and tackle each project with fresh enthusiasm and professionalism. We really enjoy what we do as do our clients, just see our testimonials!
We believe successful design should have a strong idea, be distinctive, memorable, simple and communicate the clients requirements. Any project large or small has the same opportunity for great design!
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Tips to Create an Effective Graphic Design Portfolio
Posted by in Uncategorized on October 6, 2009
To the graphic designer, it is not sufficient just to have a diploma or knowledge in designing. In addition to this, their career is greatly dependent on their graphic design portfolio. This is because it is based on the material produced in the portfolio that you get your future job openings.
When creating your portfolio, you have to concentrate on showing your work to its best advantage and not distracting with too many distractions in it. Of course, you will have to use a clever layout in your designs. However in the process, you have to remember not to forget the purpose of the portfolio, which is to display your work and not divert attention from it.
Variety adds spice to your portfolio
Create a graphic design portfolio with various pieces of your past work. It is better to choose pieces where you have used different concepts and design skills in creating your work.
Remember that variety is an asset for a portfolio as this is the best way of giving an employer an idea of what you can do for them. So, if you have the talent, don’t hide it but flaunt it. But if you don’t have it, don’t despair, work at developing one.
One important trait you have to develop to create an effective graphic design portfolio is to be able to look at your work critically. Don’t add work that is not of good quality; remember that the portfolio is created to reflect your ability in producing high quality designs and in deciding what a high quality design is.
Use expert opinion when creating your portfolio
If you find it difficult to choose the pieces of work to include in your graphic design portfolio, you could consider getting some expert opinion. Many a time, an honest but brutal critique proves great in creating the perfect portfolio.
When creating your portfolio, it is better to include all the best works you have done so far. And if you are a newbie in the field, you may have to include everything you have done so far in the portfolio. Even things you have done for friends and family can be included in the portfolio, so long as the work is something that is complete and clear to look at.
Use the internet to create an online portfolio
You could consider enlarging your graphic design portfolio by volunteering your services for local, non-profit organizations. These organizations are usually more than happy to get some of their work done for free.
And to make things beneficial to you, you could request to have your business name and phone number added in the finished work you do for them, as advertisement of your work. This way, both you and the organization benefit, and you have extra pieces to add to your graphic design portfolio.
With the internet at your finger tips, you can create an online portfolio. This way, people and employers from all over the world will be able take a look at your graphic design portfolio, and decide on the feasibility of hiring you.
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