The business of replying

As a business owner, responding to emails and phone calls from my clients, colleagues and prospects is critical to my success. Not only is it important to let people know that I have received their message but to do this as soon as possible.
This relates to the saying "treat others as you would like to be treated". I always want to feel that my requests, questions and comments are valued and that doing business with me is important. I want my clients, colleagues and prospects to feel the same.
Although we're all inundated with emails (and still some phone calls too), it's important to respond – and in a timely fashion – to those who help make our business a success.

Green Office Punchlist

I came across this punch list on the AIGA website. There are several valuable tips such as how to reduce paper use and/or using recycled paper, using remanufactured toner cartridges + more. The link to the complete green office punchlist is below.

http://www.sustainability.aiga.org/resources/content/2/9/8/7/documents/CFSD_green-office-punchlist.pdf

QUOTE OF THE DAY

"Without aesthetic, design is either the humdrum repetition of familiar clichés or a wild scramble for novelty. Without the aesthetic, the computer is but a mindless speed machine, producing effects without substance. Form without relevant content, or content without meaningful form."
Paul Rand

TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS

I recently read Malcolm Gladwell's book, Blink, which from my understanding is about the rapid cognitive process that happens to give us on the spot conclusions when seeing something for the first time.

Those initial introductory seconds can be the best and most efficient in revealing one's true feelings about something...it certainly has its place in a designer's world. We can look at something and sense what is out of place or not working, if color is expressing the proper mood, or if even the slightest 2 pixel movement is needed to achieve an element's best position. Sometimes it takes stepping away from a design for a little while so we can return with a fresher look and get a chance for that "blink" reaction.

When we talk about gut reactions, they are often less favorable compared to thoughtful, rational, well-timed decisions. So the question is, when is it valuable to rely on our guts and when is it not? According to Gladwell, extensive market testing is not always accurate. He fills the book with examples from history, such as the failed attempt of New Coke in the 80s and the against all odds success of Herman Miller's famous Aeron Chair.

It's inspiring to know that sometimes, simply going with your gut can lead to greatness.

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS

Every year, it seems more challenging to find creative holiday gifts, whether for clients, colleagues, friends or family. The websites listed below provide some interesting, unique ideas for giftgiving.
http://www.etsy.com/
http://www.uncommongoods.com/
http://www.pennydellpuzzles.com/
http://sfmoma.stores.yahoo.net/

FINE ART, MURALS, COLOR CONSULTING

If you are considering purchasing a new piece of art, having a mural painted or looking for an color consultant for your business or your home, I had the pleasure of recently meeting an expert in this field by the name of Angela Tirrell. In addition to her extensive experience, she is extremely passionate about what she does and loves all aspects of creating custom-tailored artwork for your home or business and managing a project from start to finish. If you would like to learn more about her services, please contact our office at 415.558.9085 or andrea@andreadesigngroup.com

BRAND IDENTITY

WHAT IS YOURS?

This term has been around for awhile now and it's no longer the "term of the day." However, we find that it is still not a clearly understood concept. Many varations of the definition of brand identity exist and it ultimately comes down to this: Your brand identity is the distinct personality of your business, it's how you're perceived by your customer and it's delivering on your promises.

How does this relate to graphic design?

Your logo, color scheme, printed materials, website, etc. are key in adding to your image and company brand. Do you visually communicate that you are a professional business that will take care of your customers' needs? If anything is mismatched, out of date, or of poor quality, think about what this says about your image. Everything you say and do is a reflection upon your business. That is "branding."
Do you need help defining your brand identity? Contact us anytime to help you tackle the challenge.