Monday, August 10, 2009
Saturday, August 08, 2009
Free Wi-Fi Flowers
Great promotion: New York, Chicago, Seattle, San Francisco and LA will get the benefits of free solar-powered Wi-Fi and power outlets via giant Toyota flowers. (via @organicinc)
Friday, August 07, 2009
Wednesday, August 05, 2009
Scratching the Surface
via 30gms.com
Now this is talent—graffiti artist Vhils now produces fine art. If you're in London be sure to check out the show at the Lazarides Gallery.
Sunday, August 02, 2009
If your walls need some love
I think Anthony Burrill sums it up rather nicely. Find this and others on http://www.concretehermit.com/shop/
Monday, July 27, 2009
When Driving Becomes Writing
iQ font - When driving becomes writing
Download the font here. And visit the font designers at PLEASELETMEDESIGN.
Friday, March 13, 2009
The New Designer
In a recent post on Notes on Design, Ken Hanson took a moment to discuss the watering down of the term 'design' and decided to write down his thoughts on redefining what designers truly are. You can download the manifesto here.
Manifesto of “The New Designer”
- We are essential to success in this increasingly complex,
technology-fueled age.- We are evangelists for the combined power of technology,
creativity and communication.- We know that good design is not a luxury. It is a necessity.
- We are the stewards of a new economy driven by the consumer,
hungry for ideas.- We create simplicity out of complexity. We use our talent to serve,
define, inspire, plan and create.- We are driven to see the entire landscape, identify patterns
and create sustainable solutions.- We believe in the nobility of creating solutions that are elegant,
effective, measurable and beautiful.- We are the conduit for the information people need,
the things they seek and the human connections they crave.
Little Architects with Big Ideas
Freshwater HouseChenchow Little Architects from Sydney. A new firm I recently found and love their use of space and contrast. Be sure to check out the entire slideshow by clicking on one of the gray silhouettes in the upper right.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
PreFAB
The more I read about prefab, the more I'm interested. Dwell Homes by Empyrean are probably one of the best I have come across, at a respectable $250/ft.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Feeling the Nudge
Okay, okay. I heard a rumor that people are reading this blog. Okay, a good amount of people that are nudging me. And since I have no real excuse otherwise, I think I'll warm up the engines.
I have some new interests, some new fascinations and I plan on letting you in. So as I clear out the rust, check back for some points of inspiration. You don't turn off the designer when you go home.
Let's start with Designtide Tokyo 2.0. In it's 4th year reconsidering "design as a concept and way of thinking that anyone can share and participate in" it is a design hub that showcases a new perspective emerging from Japan.
Banquet Table lamps for Swarovski, 2008. t.n.a. design studio
I have some new interests, some new fascinations and I plan on letting you in. So as I clear out the rust, check back for some points of inspiration. You don't turn off the designer when you go home.
Let's start with Designtide Tokyo 2.0. In it's 4th year reconsidering "design as a concept and way of thinking that anyone can share and participate in" it is a design hub that showcases a new perspective emerging from Japan.
Banquet Table lamps for Swarovski, 2008. t.n.a. design studio
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Losing The Focus
I couldn't agree more with Laura Ries
in her article about Starbucks diluting its brand by venturing into the fast food market.
What Laura goes on to say, and where I can chime in once again, is that Dunkin Donuts has to focus on the "fast" in order to win. Being that they were just acquired and have started using the new tagline, "America Runs on Dunkin'", I don't think they are really on the right strategy. But we shall see.
Given, I'm not a big fan of Dunkin Donuts to begin with (another discussion entirely), I really do agree with the notion that Dunkin' needs to position itself as the opposite in order to create radical differentiation in the market.
in her article about Starbucks diluting its brand by venturing into the fast food market."It's the same old story. A company narrows its focus and becomes a big brand and a big success. Then it gets arrogant, cocky and greedy and decides it can take over the world and be all things to everybody. Wrong.
When will company leaders learn? Starbucks is a strong coffee brand because its brew packs a powerful punch. Dilute the thing with too much water and you'll end up with a lousy brand and a terrible cup of coffee."
What Laura goes on to say, and where I can chime in once again, is that Dunkin Donuts has to focus on the "fast" in order to win. Being that they were just acquired and have started using the new tagline, "America Runs on Dunkin'", I don't think they are really on the right strategy. But we shall see.
Given, I'm not a big fan of Dunkin Donuts to begin with (another discussion entirely), I really do agree with the notion that Dunkin' needs to position itself as the opposite in order to create radical differentiation in the market.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Accenture Interactive Network
Accenture's Interactive Network just made it's debut at Chicago's O'Hare Airport. What a great idea brought to life. The 7x10' HD screen not only informs, but entertains – delivering news, weather, sports, and entertainment – all with the interactivity of a touchscreen. Do you hear something? It's the sound of a new channel of content distribution being created right before your eyes. The extension of this is phenominal, everything from store windows to museums showcasing information, advertising, and interaction. Want to know more? Visit the Technology Labs to see what else they're up to.
Collaboration and Creativity
These last two weeks have been rather interesting, not the least of which being a Webinar conducted by Daniel Pink and Mindjet called '21st Century Workforce Success: Collaboration and Creativity in the Conceptual Age'. It was [as expected] spot on and really got me inspired for the weekend (My work doesn't stop just because it's Friday @ 5pm). I've read some of Daniel's work, but it takes hearing him to understand just what a fast thinker he really is. My next goal will be to see him speak in person, as I'm sure that will be just as intriguing. If you haven't already read them, let me recommend A Whole New Mind, and Free Agent Nation for your bookshelf. And as a side note of interest, you might be interested in this month's cover story for Business 2.0, The Next Job Boom.
, and Free Agent Nation for your bookshelf. And as a side note of interest, you might be interested in this month's cover story for Business 2.0, The Next Job Boom.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
The State of 'Entry Level' Affairs
I recently saw this on R. Bird's blog, About Design.
Now I am not normally the type who is inclined to post on new blogs, most of the time I am quite the lurker. But this post really caused an immediate reponse in me, and it went something like this (pardon the length, but it was due to lack of time).
I certainly see nothing wrong with wanting top-notch talent on a lean team, since in essence every team member you add should be a multiplier. Especially when creating cross-disciplinary teams, it is vital for every member to add value, taking the combined effort of the team to an even greater level. Entry-level designers need to have an entrepreneurial spirit (without the arrogance of a rock star), a thirst for knowledge (with the humble nature to admit when they, in fact, do not know something), and an innate intellect for brand identity as a whole (that it entails every touchpoint the consumer interacts with, not just the Brandmark and stationery system). Having the software skills and design execution should be a given; it is the marketing and business acumen, the constant strive to become better, and the passion for the craft of true communication design that sets the true ‘entry-level designer’ apart from the flock.
How do you feel?
What does Entry Level Designer mean to you?
It's been many years since I've met an Entry Level Designer that measures up to the bar at R.BIRD.
That's not said lightly or for bragging rights. It's a concern.
As every year goes by, our minimum expectations for Entry Level Designer gets deeper and more difficult. At the same time, the candidates we see emerging from academia move farther away from meeting the minimum.
When we hire Entry Level Designers we are more likely to be creating added burdens for the company. That is: more time (and cost) invested in managing and nurturing the talent with reduced output (a.k.a. "lowered expectations").
Of course, "everyone needs to start somewhere." But, in my mind, the starting should have begun much earlier in the cycle.
Take a look at the current recruiting page at RBIRD.com.
I attempted to post the same skills description as a single job opening ad on Creative Hotlist.
It was refused.
Why?
The director said, "this is clearly not one position, it is several. Please create separate job listings...."
I don't think so.
That list of skills and pursuits is an achievable - I think, necessary - model for designers at all levels. So, we continue our looking.
What does Entry Level mean to you?
Now I am not normally the type who is inclined to post on new blogs, most of the time I am quite the lurker. But this post really caused an immediate reponse in me, and it went something like this (pardon the length, but it was due to lack of time).
I certainly see nothing wrong with wanting top-notch talent on a lean team, since in essence every team member you add should be a multiplier. Especially when creating cross-disciplinary teams, it is vital for every member to add value, taking the combined effort of the team to an even greater level. Entry-level designers need to have an entrepreneurial spirit (without the arrogance of a rock star), a thirst for knowledge (with the humble nature to admit when they, in fact, do not know something), and an innate intellect for brand identity as a whole (that it entails every touchpoint the consumer interacts with, not just the Brandmark and stationery system). Having the software skills and design execution should be a given; it is the marketing and business acumen, the constant strive to become better, and the passion for the craft of true communication design that sets the true ‘entry-level designer’ apart from the flock.
How do you feel?
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Coverage of the m3 Summit & Remix Hotel Miami
(more to come)
Wednesday, March 22
Upon arriving at The National, I have to say that the evening was shaping up nice.
The environmental artwork on canvas that surrounded the stage promoted Beatport and Remix Hotel perfect, and the visual design was very well done. 
It was very muggy, however, and we were not looking forward to the long journey to Tantra for the Bargrooves Miami Sessions. Not to mention, when you have Carl Cox walk by you and say the music is ‘rave’ it only reaffirms the fact that it’s time to go. So onto the Bargrooves party, which was the perfect blend of ambiance and vibrancy that intimate gatherings should all have.
They had congas set up, which always amps up the dance floor. The agencylife press team was out in full effect, and only after a good time dancing and the slow progression that would soon come to be known as ‘pacing ourselves’ we ended the evening a little after midnight and only about three drinks in.
Thursday March 23
The rain was not very forgiving so most of the OM Records BBQ was rained out, but it was good timing to revisit The Surfcomber (homebase of the m3Summit) just in time for Giant Step’s Opening Night Celebration around 6pm.
Gilles Peterson, a great producer and DJ was the host for the evening and he did a great job keeping it seamless throughout the night. He set the tone for the acts to come, bridging the music from deep house following Peter Kruder to funk and nujazz before J*Davey and then Bugz in the Attic. 
Kruder played a pleasantly unusual deep house set, considering the last time I heard him was with the Rainer Truby trio and it was completely broken beat. 
I had never seen J*Davey live, but had read much about how she is going to throw Kelis off her post, and boy did she deliver. Not only is her voice like a soulful satin, her presence is strong. 
By the time that Bugz came up, the stage was warm and the crowd ready. They were referring to Daz-I-Kue as the Black Wimbeldon, and you can see why.
We continued the night at an industry party held in the Oval Room at The National. 
Kaskade and King Britt were great, and I will make note that I did not see one record… it was all digital mixing. Let’s just say that open bar and a private event with food is always a good thing, and it certainly got us ready for the ESL party.
Miami Eclectique 2006 was great music, and set out to promote Thunderball's new album. Ursula 1000, Jon from Fort Knox Recordings, and J-Boogie really know how to throw down. Not to mention the fact that they are genuinely nice guys, too.
We teased J-Boogie for playing his “Miami Set”, but he was un-phased. He probably wanted to deviate from his normal genre that he is always expected to play at the OM parties. Alex (Ursula 1000) is very personable, and just the type of person we here at agencylife like. Jon, also, was really open and took our sarcasm well (did I mention we had just come from an open bar?). It was about 3am before we got out of the venue, and my feet were exhausted.
Friday March 24
The Sunset Session surprise this night was the Chicago's Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, playing live by the opposite end of the pool, and Jazzanova warming up for their next event. A short trip to the Delano to visit Kruder again, proved my theory that he is moving back into house again.
But the icing on the cake was the BBE and Rapster Records party, Real Music for Real People, at The Shore Club. This is, by far, one of my favorite settings. Who can beat Jazzy Jeff by the pool and Jazzanova in the Red Room? Great stuff.
The line outside of the Red Room was hectic because people coming to the party did not know they had to be on a separate list for that part of the event. Good thing we were on or else we would have sat at the door for literally 2 hours. Besides Jazzanova inside, the pick of the night goes to DJ Language, who I briefly talked to before we left. A very nice guy, and someone who has great taste in music.
Wednesday, March 22
Upon arriving at The National, I have to say that the evening was shaping up nice.
The environmental artwork on canvas that surrounded the stage promoted Beatport and Remix Hotel perfect, and the visual design was very well done. 
It was very muggy, however, and we were not looking forward to the long journey to Tantra for the Bargrooves Miami Sessions. Not to mention, when you have Carl Cox walk by you and say the music is ‘rave’ it only reaffirms the fact that it’s time to go. So onto the Bargrooves party, which was the perfect blend of ambiance and vibrancy that intimate gatherings should all have.
They had congas set up, which always amps up the dance floor. The agencylife press team was out in full effect, and only after a good time dancing and the slow progression that would soon come to be known as ‘pacing ourselves’ we ended the evening a little after midnight and only about three drinks in.Thursday March 23
The rain was not very forgiving so most of the OM Records BBQ was rained out, but it was good timing to revisit The Surfcomber (homebase of the m3Summit) just in time for Giant Step’s Opening Night Celebration around 6pm.
Gilles Peterson, a great producer and DJ was the host for the evening and he did a great job keeping it seamless throughout the night. He set the tone for the acts to come, bridging the music from deep house following Peter Kruder to funk and nujazz before J*Davey and then Bugz in the Attic. 
Kruder played a pleasantly unusual deep house set, considering the last time I heard him was with the Rainer Truby trio and it was completely broken beat. 
I had never seen J*Davey live, but had read much about how she is going to throw Kelis off her post, and boy did she deliver. Not only is her voice like a soulful satin, her presence is strong. 
By the time that Bugz came up, the stage was warm and the crowd ready. They were referring to Daz-I-Kue as the Black Wimbeldon, and you can see why.
We continued the night at an industry party held in the Oval Room at The National. 
Kaskade and King Britt were great, and I will make note that I did not see one record… it was all digital mixing. Let’s just say that open bar and a private event with food is always a good thing, and it certainly got us ready for the ESL party.Miami Eclectique 2006 was great music, and set out to promote Thunderball's new album. Ursula 1000, Jon from Fort Knox Recordings, and J-Boogie really know how to throw down. Not to mention the fact that they are genuinely nice guys, too.
We teased J-Boogie for playing his “Miami Set”, but he was un-phased. He probably wanted to deviate from his normal genre that he is always expected to play at the OM parties. Alex (Ursula 1000) is very personable, and just the type of person we here at agencylife like. Jon, also, was really open and took our sarcasm well (did I mention we had just come from an open bar?). It was about 3am before we got out of the venue, and my feet were exhausted.Friday March 24
The Sunset Session surprise this night was the Chicago's Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, playing live by the opposite end of the pool, and Jazzanova warming up for their next event. A short trip to the Delano to visit Kruder again, proved my theory that he is moving back into house again.But the icing on the cake was the BBE and Rapster Records party, Real Music for Real People, at The Shore Club. This is, by far, one of my favorite settings. Who can beat Jazzy Jeff by the pool and Jazzanova in the Red Room? Great stuff.
The line outside of the Red Room was hectic because people coming to the party did not know they had to be on a separate list for that part of the event. Good thing we were on or else we would have sat at the door for literally 2 hours. Besides Jazzanova inside, the pick of the night goes to DJ Language, who I briefly talked to before we left. A very nice guy, and someone who has great taste in music.
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Project Fast
They're at it again. After taking over the VW account, the first commercials from CP+B have surfaced, along with the site Project Fast. Aimed at young males, the GTI campaign speaks to your inner 'fast', building upon 'drivers wanted' but putting the need for speed and agility at the forefront of the driving experience. Let me just mention that the companion site is how it should be done – one of the best car sites I have ever seen. Hats off to the interactive team, including Jeff Benjamin.
Think small
There's an interesting article on cnet about What the Fortune 1 million can teach the Fortune 100. I'm posting this now before I forget, and will add comments later today.
