Embedded Files
Good designs are often taken for granted, so it's important to explain the design rationale.
My design process is different depending on the situation, but I always begin with an audience analysis. Mainly I focus on the audience’s goals, knowledge level, and expectations. I also consider the ethos of the company and its goals for the document. Then I will usually sketch out the layout, which is important for print documents since space is usually limited.
When I begin creating the design I usually start by experimenting with images and color, which is my favorite part. Experimentation gives me the freedom to be more creative and try out multiple design options. This is why I've learned to make multiple copies of my designs.
In the documents below you will see how I can create sophisticated-looking print designs using software, like InDesign and Photoshop. Embracing new technology has given me more learning opportunities, especially during my independent study on InDesign (Advanced Document Design) as well as my work as a tech writer.
You can also see my social media page for other examples.
FINAL-UWC Brochure final draft.pdfThis is a tri-fold brochure that I created for the University Writing Center (UWC). The purpose of this brochure is to promote the UWC across campus. It was created using InDesign without a template. All of the images featured are labeled for reuse with modification.
One of the design constraints was adhering to UA Little Rock's maroon and silver branding. The two colors are not that eye catching, and it is difficult to coordinate with other colors. To mitigate this problem I used white space strategically to create contrast and make my images pop. I used images to add color and create interest.
UWC Newsletter third draft.pdfI created this mock newsletter for my independent study, Advanced Document Design. It is much easier to think rhetorically about the audience and organization if it is not hypothetical. For this assignment the design was more important, so I didn't focus much on the writing. The text is used as filler.
The purpose of this newsletter is to build regular communication with the UWC clients. Since they strive to create a low pressure learning environment I wanted the newsletter to reflect a casual and inviting tone.
I used InDesign because it is perfect for newsletter creation. I didn't use a template because I wanted to room to experiment. The final draft looks effortless, but the design went through major revisions.
The first draft is completely different than the final version. The final draft is more personal, but still professional. In my final version, all of the images are mine except for Dr. James' photo. I used my own images to add a personal touch and create more consistency. The fall trees helped me find a better color scheme that complimented the UA Little Rock branding. It also reinforced my fall theme.
UWC bake sale flyer final draft with UA Little Rock logo.pdfThis flyer was made September 2018 in my independent study working with InDesign. It was made for the University Writing Center's bake sale.
The flyer was meant to be used in print form and in digital form for social media. The flyer was posted in the student center, so it needed to be very eye catching. This is why I chose such a bright and colorful image.
For the main heading at the top I used a decorative font that was reminiscent of piped icing on a cake. The font used for the information part of the flyer was a serif font called, Elephant. I liked the contrast of thick and thin lines in its serifs that made it stand out on the white background. It has a more formal tone, but it is still friendly. I ended up changing the image of the cupcakes because the original was not licensed for reuse. The new photo is even more vibrant than the one on the first draft.
Report abuse