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Reflective Journal for Industry Based Learning
Introduction
As I sit down to write this reflective journal, a smile graces my face. It marks the nearing end of my degree journey in the BA Creative Industry, bringing me closer to the finish line. I would never imagine expanding my knowledge and skills in a new and fresh venture, from the make-up industry to crafting unique and original pieces with a fellow student I met during this course.
At the outset, I planned to establish myself as a freelance beauty therapist and makeup artist. However, my perspective gradually shifted as we assembled our team for the Cultural project.
While I always had the intention of offering services or items for sale, I never anticipated that woodcraft would become one of them. Today, I can confidently say that this journey has awoken a newfound passion for creating, one that I knew existed within me but waited for the right time to shine.
My Industry Research
Initially, I anticipated furthering my expertise and passion in the industry where I currently work, considering it both my profession and hobby. However, everything shifted in January 2024, prompting a significant change in direction. I now reflect on the remarkable journey of creating my job, a venture that has become a defining aspect of my career path.
https://sites.google.com/view/industry-based-learning/industry-based-project/my-industry?authuser=0
SwaveArt Project
Today, I am excited to introduce the SwaveArt Project, which kickstarted our journey and inspired Jakub and Myself to establish DaVinci Enterprise Ltd.
https://sites.google.com/view/industry-based-learning/swaveart?authuser=0
Learning experience and new ways of thinking
“If you are starting up a new business, it's not enough to shake things gently. It's about thinking big. Being innovative. Making a difference.” (Shayler, 2018)
https://sites.google.com/view/industry-based-learning/industry-based-project?authuser=0
From the start, I felt excitement but simultaneously a touch of apprehension as I embarked on this new academic journey.
The first lesson immediately captured my interest, affirming my decision to pursue this degree. Coming from a background in Beauty Therapy and Media Makeup, I felt a strong urge to evolve and explore new horizons with my existing skills. Embracing the challenges that this course brought did not intimidate me; rather, I saw it as an opportunity for growth and transformation.
In our class discussions, reflecting on my key skills and areas for development was insightful. While I already possess strengths in teamwork, creativity, and organization, I recognise the importance of enhancing my communication, decision-making, and leadership abilities. Setting personal goals to maximise my learning experience was crucial for me. I was determined to make the most of this opportunity and today I can say it worked out pretty well.
Crafting a SMART plan allowed me to outline specific steps for achieving my goals, ensuring accountability, and staying focused on progress. By maintaining a positive attitude, staying organised, and committing to continuous improvement, I aimed to meet my deadlines and expand my skill set effectively. This process is clearly documented and demonstrated throughout my personal development journey within DaVinci Enterprise Ltd in my final SWOT analysis.
I was strict with myself and followed my vision; I have set the stage for an exciting and transformative academic experience raising my standards higher.
By following reflective practice, starting with the ERA model, I have systematically engaged and deepened my understanding, enhanced my skills, and improved my performance. It was a new way of learning as this method is an ongoing process, and each cycle of reflection led to further growth and development.
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" by Carol Dweck explores the concept of fixed and growth mindsets and how they influence our behaviour, achievement, and success. Dweck argues that individuals with a fixed mindset believe their abilities and intelligence are static traits, leading them to avoid challenges and give up easily in the face of setbacks. On the other hand, those with a growth mindset see their abilities as malleable and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Through research and real-life examples, Dweck demonstrates how adopting a growth mindset can lead to greater resilience, learning, and fulfilment in both personal and professional lives. (Dweck, 2006)
DaVinci Enterprise Ltd
DaVinci Enterprise Ltd is a dynamic and innovative company at the forefront of the creative industry. With a passion for craftsmanship and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in producing unique and original pieces that captivate the imagination. Our diverse range of products reflects our dedication to creativity, quality, and customer satisfaction.
At DaVinci Enterprise Ltd, I believe in pushing the boundaries of traditional craftsmanship while embracing modern technology and trends. We like to call ourselves a team of skilled artisans and designers who work tirelessly to create products that are not only visually stunning but also functional and practical. From handmade wooden pieces to bespoke artworks, each item is meticulously crafted with attention to detail and a focus on craftsmanship. A selection of our unique products is currently stocked at Falkland Cottage Craft Shop.
What sets DaVinci Enterprise Ltd apart is our unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability. We strive to minimise our environmental footprint by using ethically sourced materials and eco-friendly production methods. By embracing sustainability, we not only contribute to a greener planet but also appeal to conscientious consumers who value ethical and environmentally responsible products.
As a customer-centric company, we prioritise the needs and preferences of our clients, ensuring that every interaction with DaVinci Enterprise Ltd is seamless and satisfying. Whether they are shopping for themselves or searching for the perfect gift, everyone can trust us to deliver exceptional quality and service every time.
Guided by the invaluable insights of our lectures, we have navigated through challenges with determination and resilience. From the initial conceptualisation to the final execution, our team has worked tirelessly and seamlessly to bring our vision to life. The journey from October until now has been a whirlwind of activity, filled with highs and lows, but through it all, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to excellence.
Overall, I have to say that what we accomplished was an amazing start to present people with our creativity. Both of us have the same vision for expansion and we are pushing forward each day to grow personally and professionally.
Teamwork
Teamwork makes the dream work (Maxwell, 2008)
Every step of the way, we have encountered new challenges and opportunities for growth. From refining our marketing strategies to fine-tuning our product offerings, we have embraced each hurdle as an opportunity to learn and evolve. With each passing day, our understanding of the industry has deepened, and our confidence in our abilities has grown.
Despite the challenges, the journey has been incredibly rewarding and I am now a proud owner of DaVinci Enterprise Ltd. We have seen our ideas come to life, our products resonate with customers, and our business flourish. It's been a testament to our teamwork, dedication, and passion for what we do. This is why I often use We instead of I.
As I reflect on the journey so far, we are filled with gratitude for the support of our mentors, the dedication of our team, and the enthusiasm of our customers. With each new day, we are excited to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity, innovation, and excellence, as we strive to make DaVinci Enterprise Ltd a beacon of inspiration in the creative industry.
Skills
I now realise that if I had solely pursued freelance makeup artistry, I would not have acquired as many skills as I have through running my own business.
Marketing Strategies: I have gained expertise in devising and implementing effective marketing strategies tailored to the unique needs of our business. This understanding of market competition, selecting appropriate platforms, and promoting products to enhance popularity and visibility. It is a constant task that I have to engage with daily, getting to know our audience's likes and dislikes.
E-commerce Management: My experience with various e-commerce platforms has equipped me with the skills to effectively manage and promote our business online. This involves navigating through the complexities of online retail, optimising product listings, and leveraging digital marketing techniques to drive sales.
Social Media Marketing: I have learned how to utilise social media platforms to promote our business and engage with our audience effectively. This includes crafting engaging content, fostering community engagement, and staying attuned to emerging trends in social media marketing.
Audience Engagement: in this process, I have developed a keen understanding of how to engage with our audience in meaningful ways while also considering their mental health and environmental impact. This involved tailoring marketing efforts to resonate with our target audience and aligning the business practices with sustainability principles.
Adaptability and Resilience: One of the other skills on this journey with DaVinci Enterprise Ltd has undoubtedly required adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges. I have learned to navigate through obstacles, pivot when necessary, and persevere in pursuit of my goals and our visions.
Establishing our business while learning new skills
Reflecting on this journey, as stepping into the unknown demanded courage. I do not look back now, it has proven to be a catalyst for growth, both personally and professionally. The rapid learning in a short period has opened new doors for both of us. It has not only broadened our knowledge and skills but at the same time pushed our confidence and communication skills. For myself, this helped me to explore diverse avenues for expansion and growth. Now we feel great about expanding our ideas and offering more products or services.
The pivotal turning point came before the All-staff event, where the collective energy propelled us towards a significant milestone in establishing our company. It was at that moment that we recognised the depth of our commitment and understood the enduring dedication required for long-term success.
Product design and development: I have likely gained hands-on experience in designing and developing all products, whether they are unique handcrafted items, artwork, or other creative pieces. This may involve my skills such as understanding different types of wood materials, paintings, digital designs, 3D printing, and engraver control. Artistic technique skills are essential for bringing our creative vision to life and ensuring the quality and craftsmanship of our products.
Photography and Visual Content Creation: Given the importance of visual presentation in e-commerce and marketing, I have developed skills in visual content creation to showcase our products effectively. With photography, I have only helped, including skills such as lighting setup, composition, video content for social media, being a model, and styling to capture high-quality images that highlight the unique features of our products.
Product Packaging and Presentation: as our products are sold online, I have acquired skills in product packaging and presentation to ensure that the products are well-packaged, branded, and appealingly presented to customers. This involved designing our packaging materials such as engraving our logo into cardboard, creating branding elements, and arranging product displays for online and offline sales channels. Our products are sold in three shops where I am involved in setting up and replenishing the stock as necessary.
Customer Service and Communication: While not directly related to product creation, my experience with DaVinci Enterprise Ltd may have also helped me develop skills in customer service and communication. This includes effectively communicating with customers, addressing their inquiries and concerns, and providing excellent service to enhance their shopping experience. Working in the creative industry taught me patience and people handling.
A funding application: We have been awarded £500 by Business Getaway, which was directly invested in our business. Additionally, we have received £200 as part of the Russell Trust Scholarship after submitting our application. This funding will further support our entrepreneurial endeavours. Notably, this marks my fifth award from this organization, underscoring my commitment to my studies at Fife College and now at Queen Margaret University.
Events and new skills
As DaVinci Enterprise Ltd, we are interested in community events for several reasons.
Markets, Events, and Exhibitions are effective ways for current promoting and marketing strategies depending on a geographic location. While this approach does not limit the experience of meeting new customers, from time to time it could be overwhelming. Not knowing the audience and having a positive mindset allows one to develop a new kinder, self-positive personality (Pescher, Reichhart, Span, 2014) We do this because, for a young business flexibility to adapt to a new environment is a learning opportunity for faster growth.
Local Engagement: I have learned that community events provide an opportunity to engage with our local community on a personal level. By participating in these events, we can build relationships with local residents and businesses, fostering a sense of connection and belonging.
Brand Exposure: Community events offer valuable exposure for our brand. By showcasing our products or services at these events, we can increase awareness of our brand among local consumers and potentially attract new customers.
Market Research: Community events allow us to gain insights into the preferences and interests of our target audience. By interacting with event attendees and observing their reactions to our offerings, we can gather valuable feedback that can inform our marketing and product development strategies.
Supporting Community: Participating in community events is a way for us to give back to the community that supports us. Whether through sponsorships, donations, or volunteer efforts, we can contribute to the success of these events and help strengthen the fabric of our local community. We already are, by helping out with clean up in our area and to our benefit we have met some talented local artists.
Networking Opportunities: Community events provide a platform for networking with other local businesses, community leaders, and potential collaborators. By establishing connections within our community, we can identify opportunities for partnerships and collaborations that can benefit our business in the long term.
Through the process of applying for, researching, and organising stock for community events, I have personally acquired a range of valuable skills.
Organisation: Managing inventory and coordinating stock for events requires the meticulous organisation to ensure everything is in place and ready for the event.
Inventory Management: I would have developed skills in tracking and managing inventory levels, ensuring sufficient stock is available to meet demand without overstocking.
Communication: Effective communication is essential when liaising with suppliers, event organisers, and team members to coordinate stock requirements and ensure smooth operations.
Problem solving: Dealing with unexpected challenges such as last-minute stock shortages or delivery delays can help hone my problem-solving skills and ability to think on my feet.
Time Management: Working, studying, and balancing multiple tasks and deadlines, such as ordering stock, coordinating deliveries, and preparing for events, requires strong time management skills to ensure everything is completed efficiently.
Customer Service: Interacting with customers at community events provides an opportunity to develop customer service skills, including assisting customers with inquiries, providing product information, and addressing any issues or concerns.
Attention to Detail: Paying attention to detail is crucial to ensure accuracy in design planning, in-stock orders, labelling, and inventory records, reducing the risk of errors or discrepancies.
Branding, marketing, community engagement, environment, sustainability
https://www.davincienterprise.co.uk
https://www.facebook.com/share/FCRTEoPukHqJDm3t/
https://www.instagram.com/davinci_enterprise/?img_index=1
https://www.linkedin.com/company/davinci-enterprise-ltd/
In reflecting on my learning journey, I have gained valuable insights into the intricacies of marketing strategies within creative and cultural businesses. Through the exploration of established businesses and their promotional efforts across various eCommerce platforms, I have come to appreciate the importance of strategic thinking in selecting the most effective platforms for market competition and product visibility.
As a team, we have expanded to digital infrastructure delivering goods on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, LinkedIn, and many more. Everyone uses smart devices that are driven by software and algorithms to reach marketing objectives. Many studies have been conducted to measure the success of brand advertisements, customer behaviours, and care (Hanlon,Tuten, 2022)
Applying current and emerging marketing strategies, particularly on social media platforms, has been a focal point of my learning experience. Understanding how to engage with communities while aligning with emerging trends has been crucial for our business growth and relevance in today's dynamic market landscape. However, it is equally important to consider the ethical implications of our engagement, ensuring that our marketing efforts contribute positively to the well-being of our audience and the environment.
Moreover, I have realised that success in marketing strategies requires a comprehensive understanding of the power of the Internet and its impact on consumer behaviour. (Kolb,2016) By leveraging this knowledge and continuously adapting to changing trends, we can effectively plan, promote, and sustain our business endeavours. Furthermore, the emphasis on sustainability awareness has underscored the importance of responsible business practices, aligning our efforts with the growing environmental consciousness of our audience.
Present and future directions/collaborations
How I think about our business and what we want for our future.
“Consistently leaning into your fears, you create a new way of addressing them. This practice becomes a habit, this habit becomes your life.” (Victore, 2019)
The digital artisans in the modern world are tools for businesses to use in a “digital economy” DaVinci Enterprise Ltd has been expanding on this ideology from the very beginning as the easiest way to start and be part of a thriving community (Meyer and Williamson, 2020)
Looking ahead, the company envisions expanding its reach through strategic partnerships with complementary businesses and exploring opportunities for international expansion. Embracing emerging trends in sustainable and ethical production methods will be integral to our future direction, aligning with consumer preferences for environmentally conscious products.
Additionally, DaVinci Enterprise Ltd aims to enhance its digital presence and optimise e-commerce platforms to streamline customer engagement and increase accessibility. Investing in research and development to innovate new products and services that resonate with evolving consumer demands will remain a priority.
Overall, the company is committed to continuous innovation, collaboration, and sustainability as it navigates the dynamic landscape of the creative and cultural industries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my academic journey has been one of excitement, growth, and transformation. From the outset, I embraced the challenges of exploring new horizons with my existing skills and setting personal goals following my SMART plan.
On this learning journey, I was equipped with the necessary tools and insights to navigate the complex world creative industry. By applying these learnings, I am confident in our ability to not only achieve business success but also make a positive impact on our audience and the broader community. My way of thinking has dramatically changed so have my habits and priorities.
Growing skills and my experience with DaVinci Enterprise Ltd have likely equipped me with a diverse range of practical skills related to product design, crafting, marketing, branding, sustainability, photography, packaging, and customer service, all of which are essential for the success of our young business.
Overall, community events align with our values as a company committed to serving and supporting the communities in which we operate. By actively participating in these events, we can not only raise awareness of our brand but also make a positive impact on the lives of those around us.
DaVinci Enterprise Ltd is more than just a company – we are a creative powerhouse dedicated to pushing the boundaries of imagination and craftsmanship. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, we are proud to be leaders in the creative industry, inspiring individuals and businesses alike to embrace their creativity and passion.
References
Dweck, C.S. (2006). Mindset : The new psychology of success. New York: Ballantine Books.
Hanlon, A. and Tuten, T.L. (2022). The SAGE handbook of social media marketing. Los Angeles: SAGE.
Kolb, B.M. (2016). Marketing Strategy for the Creative and Cultural Industries. Routledge.
Maxwell, J.C. (2008). Teamwork makes the dream work. Petaling Jaya: Advantage Quest Publications.
Meyer, A. de and Williamson, P.J. (2020). Ecosystem edge : sustaining competitiveness in the face of disruption. Stanford, California: Stanford Business Books, an imprint of Stanford University Press.
Pescher, Reichhart, Span, (2014) Understanding Interactive Online Advertising: Congruence and Product Involvement in Highly and Lowly Arousing, Skippable Video Ads. Journal of Interactive Marketing,
Shayler, M. (2018). Do disrupt : change the status quo or become it. San Francisco, California: Chronicle Books.
Victore, J. (2019). FECK PERFUCTION : dangerous ideas on the business of creativity. Chronicle Books.
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