Digital Design for Print and Web: An Introduction to Theory, Principles, and Techniques

APPENDIX I

Using the Seven-Step Design Process

Kristen Krawford

1. Identify the audience, problem, and communication goals by creating a scope document, abbreviated GACMIST, that specifies the following:

G: Goal—the goal is to produce a poster that will grab the attention of college students and educate them on the need for having an online portfolio.

A: Audience—college students.

C: Concept—the concept for this poster is based on the portfoliovillage.com Web site, which explains why a college student needs an online portfolio.

M: Messages—the messages and copy will be provided, but I will be able to add or eliminate copy based on design purposes. The main message is that everyone needs a professional portfolio.

I: Images—some suggestions of imagery for a college-based online portfolio include college students, a portfolio, a laptop or computer, and postmodern graphics.

S: Style—the style of this poster should be hip, fresh, and very edgy and graphic, with bright or muted colors—something that will stand out to both average and more artistic college students.

T: Theme—the theme of the poster is based on new and exciting tools available to a college student.

2. Research the audience and the medium to clarify themes and output specifications. Gather information to be used in the conceptualization and creation of the work.

In order to create a poster that will attract college students, I began by considering the colors, symbols, and fonts that are associated with young students. Once ...