Ok, Team Graphic Design, it is that time in the semester to take stock once again. I have mentioned that you must keep the scale of your projects manageable. Project One should be print or digital studies that are distinct from your other work—I have accepted some test work for Project Three this past week, but I would like you to keep this work separate from here on out. We looked at your websites today. Several of you are completely redesigning your sites. This is great, but not required. Maintenance is all that I require. Many of you are letting Project Three get too big. To be explicit, you need do nothing more than maintain a level of feedback which exceeds the general webpage (this is not too difficult given the static nature of such pages), employ meaningful transitions with attention to variables of animation, and present your data set so that it is reasonably digestible to a person of median intelligence. Now, that is not such a difficult task if you use the skills you have learned in your prior design experiences (remember type, remember image, remember studio). As far as the tech side goes, you need do nothing more than move from key frame to key frame while employing those (!) meaningful transitions. This is no more complicated than the use of looping clips, ‘go to’ frame commands, and some well placed audio elements.
Take time to plan on paper and digitally compose in layers (PS and/or Ill/Freehand). Be mindful of your resolution if using bitmap images—this is not print where you can resolve detailed pixel images with clarity. Use vector images where applicable. Draft a detailed storyboard before jumping into production—you should all be at this point or beyond it. Pace yourself and plan what needs to be accomplished weekly and daily. Stick to your schedule and do not get (too) distracted.
The hardest thing to do is to make a meaningful transition. I couldn’t care less if you master intermediate ActionScript. Master the duration and means it takes to transition from one state to another—this can be for editorial impact, navigation functionality, or both. Organization, planning, and a good schedule will save the day. It is much more than making pretty pics—your management skills are now put to the test.
