Since the world of graphic design is full of different options and creative niches, it can be very overwhelming for a recent graduate searching for work. Based on last week’s observations, COMD 3503 seems like it will not only educate students on the protocols and expectations of the industry, but also the business aspects as well. Being familiar with software and design principles are important, but so is knowing how to read a contract or how to pitch a product. I feel like a lot of courses are thorough with covering the ABCs of design, but don’t really touch on the skills that are needed in establishing one’s self as a successful designer from a business perspective.

Another thing I enjoyed from last week was the TED Talks presented, although I preferred one more than the other. The first talk about doodling was definitely interesting and had some valid points. However, at the end I was still feeling skeptical and slightly confused. The speaker stated that doodling actually assists an individual in retaining information, but I can recall many instances where I didn’t remember anything after that class was over. Unless my doodling had some relation to the information being shared, I don’t think it ever assisted me in anything besides providing an immersive distraction.

The second TED Talk featuring Chip Kidd was more captivating because apart from Kidd’s presentation skills, I found the subject matter more beneficial. Although Chip Kidd is a design veteran, it was cool seeing how even he isn’t immune from constructive criticism and revision. This was best demonstrated in the cover for Perfidia. His first draft for the novel was passable, but his peers’ criticism led to the creation of a better cover. The new cover was not only simpler, but it also had more cohesive imagery which was easier for readers to understand.

Kidd also addressed how sometimes the execution of a design can be flawless, but the collateral is a disaster. Diet Coke devised a perfect redesign for their cans that had a clean and bold look. Unfortunately, Diet Coke’s advertising campaign “You’re on Coke” was a huge failure. Maybe some found the campaign humorous, but the majority found themselves shaking their heads. It’s obvious that Diet Coke wanted a simple tagline to match their simple design, but in the end it was a huge misstep. This reminded me that a successful design also depends on the media around it.