Gretchen Garrison Design Blog

Networking

2009-09-12T18:10:00.001-07:00

I've been working on my online networking skills. I'm not sure how it's going to help me and my business, but it sure is fun. I have a good friend that has set me up on Twitter. I've had an account for months, but just now I'm getting really into it. The same friend has taken me to a networking meeting in Denver. It's fun but really makes me push the envelope with myself. I consider myself a shy person when I first meet someone. I do think that living in another state for seven years, forced me to go out there and meet people. Not to be shy. I think it's good to get out of your comfort zone, then interesting things are likely to happen.

Using Flash

2009-07-22T05:53:00.000-07:00

I've been keeping busy lately working on a Flash header project for Theory Factory. Theory Factory is a virtual company that I've been a part of for the last 8 years. It was started by a couple of old colleagues from my Quark days. My job for the company is to create flash elements for web sites. I really enjoy working in Flash. It's a nice change from print and static web design.

One of my clients www.jewelrybycari.com, uses Flash technology throughout her site. The way her site is set up is a smart way of using Flash in that they are separate swf files for each page. This way, you can put searchable tags on each page of her site.I wouldn't recommend creating an entire web site in Flash... since most Smart Phones can't view Flash sites. Also, it's impossible to search these sites. Using Flash minimally throughout your site is an added plus. It creates a little interactivity in a smooth and sophisticated way.

2009-06-14T18:51:00.000-07:00

The process of designing is important to discuss with prospective and current clients. I always try to be clear with people that I work for, what goes on "behind the scenes", of any project I take on. I also get as much information about the project, what they want to achieve, and where they want to go from there, upfront, so there are no surprises and misconceptions of their time and mine. My favorite part of being a graphic designer is to research, learn, and discover a new industry I'm designing a project for. Whether it be a logo, a brochure, or a web site... or all of the above.