Last week, a rather spirited discussion arose after there was an announcement by Chris Brogan saying that he was looking into launching a design contest on 99designs. Well, needless to say, a handful of designers were quick to react and try and educate Mr. Brogan about their surprise and disapproval of such an idea. After much back and forth, Chris posts the question, “Designers: so besides cost, educate a business person why one beats the other. Blog your answers? I’ll link to a few in my post.” It’s interesting that he would ask this question, because it appears that this isn’t readily apparent to the average business owner. Well, I am here to help.
With the recent launch of the much anticipated iPad, there has been a virtual firestorm of commentary, critique and speculation on the potential impact this device will have on our culture. Some are embracing the new technology and can’t wait to get one and others are ‘not drinking from that Kool-Aid’ and snuffing it as a fad item.
I’ve been working in this business a long time and have seen my share of successful entrepreneurs and thriving companies. Every once in awhile, I come across a potential client with a business that just doesn’t add up. They could be wildly successful with lots of business coming in the door and plenty of people staffing the place, but for some reason you get a vibe – a weird vibe.
Recently, I’ve heard the question, does a graphic designer need to have an understanding of marketing? Well, quite simply – yes. If you don’t have an understanding of how to market, whether it’s a packaging design, a promotional message or a website, you can’t adequately direct someone to take action – or even care, from interacting with your design. Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m just like any other red-blooded creative guy, ready to run away screaming at lengthy PowerPoint decks and dozens of statistics-laden spreadsheets. But, there is definitely some use to all that drab information, and you just need to know how to process it in your own way. It’s marketing on your own terms.
A Florida high school that is now being sued by the Chrysler corporation for illegally using the well-known Dodge Ram mark for their school mascot. It would have been cheaper to use a designer – really.
