Creating a problem to be solved with graphic design can be challenging. So, where to start? How about some brainstorming?
Q: What is the real problem?
A: I need portfolio pieces.
Q: What sort of pieces would you like to have?
A: Uh… good ones?
Q: Right! Seriously now… What are you wanting to accomplish?
A: I want to develop a portfolio that shows my ability to solve a design problem creatively.
Q: Good, good… What is your design problem?
A: Ah yes, well, about that…
Q: Come on now. Think! Think!
A: How about a guide to unheard uses for the two hot dogs without buns?
Q: Well, I suppose…
A: How about a guide on how to affix a stamp to an envelope?
Q: Umm… I don’t think…
A: Ooh, ooh, I know! A guide on how to boil water!
Q: Oh boy… This is going to be a long year.
Brainstorming is, usually, my favorite process of design. My second favorite would be finishing a project. So, that leaves many processes in between that are critical, but not ones that bring great pleasure for me. Question and research takes place before brainstorming. These steps are arguably more critical than the steps that follow as they steer design to a preferable solution if they are done correctly.
Up until this semester in school there has not been emphasis from instructors on the processes that take place before brainstorming. Having learned their importance so late has made me begin to wonder if my ignorance has been a fatal blow to all the work I have done until now. A big indicator of this is the amount of work that I’ve presented in my Portfolio Preparation class judged as not being portfolio ready. At this point, I will need to create at least three new pieces for my portfolio.
In the mean time, I’ll continue to fight the urge to think that I’m not cut out to do design.
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