This is a little tip for anyone that was using a test server before publishing there website to the world.
Before putting this blog up I was running it from my computer, so that I could muck about in the coding without everything going to hell. Once I had everything in some semblance of order and more or less working, I followed this helpful article from the WordPress Codex to transfer my site to the new server. I then encountered The Problem. All my images and links were going back to the database on my computer. So all the images where coming from http://localhost.zoddesign instead of www.zoddesign.com. and I don’t know if my humble iMac could handle the strain. You see wordpress uses absolute paths instead of relative paths. I don’t know that much about php and databases so I’m sure there’s a reason for it
» » continue reading Moving your WordPress Site
One of the biggest questions of design, To Spec or not to Spec. For those of you not familiar with the term, Spec work is short for Speculative Work, any job for which the client expects to see a finished product before agreeing to pay. It’s like ordering a Big Mac then refusing to pay because the required big doesn’t meet (or meat) your expectations.
It is one of those problems that just will not go away, and I suspect it pops up in different fields of creative form. All the thought that goes into most creative forms, is hidden from the hoards of consumers that just look at your work and sum it up with a simple “I could do that.”
When you’re starting on a new design project, it is of the utmost importance that you get a detailed design brief. This is the first thing that must be done, before you even think about picking up your sketch book or computer. There are two reasons for this:
• First, it ensures that you, the designer have point a of reference, giving you key points to focus on
• First, the client. knows exactly what they want to achieve from there project.
This will save you time and therefore the client saves money. The main point of the matter is: The more information you receive at the beginning of the project, the more value for money you’ll present to the client.
So lets get started, I’ve set out some pointers for writing a graphic design brief.
» » continue reading Brief Design Briefs
A recent experience with a client who had rather poor communication skills that thusly affected the relationship and design process, made me realize just how important it is to have good communication. You can’t just be a yes man, you have to talk to your client and make sure you BOTH understand each other.
When there is a lack of communication in play, a lot of assumptions are made. And, we all know to ASSUME – makes an ASS out of U and ME. I have seen, first hand, what the lack of communication can stir up. You think you have anticipated everything your client needs then upon presentation the client is dissatisfied with the result. Each of us has our own impression of how things should look and function and it isn’t until one of us is unhappy, that things come to ahead. If we begin with each of our expectations, this can be minimized.
» » continue reading The Art of Communication
It’s a Zoo approached looking for a poster, flyer, and program, for there upcoming play, about social apathy.
The newest micro brewery to hit the shelves, of your local liquor store (well not really).
I was contacted by the Band looking for a design for there CD cover.
This is one of those projects that every thing just seamed to fall into place.
» » continue reading Vicious Circle
The Band was looking for a logo and CD art for there new CD release.
» » continue reading Level
As we wrap up the Olympic season, lets take a look back at this year’s posters and graphics and how the designs have changed over the years. But first some art history, so that we have some idea about what the hell where talking about
