- While you're developing your website
you will probably be creating printed material.
Yes, the website will have a much stronger presence
and larger viewer-ship
but people still like to hold something physical.
I have post-cards and all types of material
from other designers in my office.
On my bookshelves, taped to my monitor
or on the wall.
I'm sure most of you
like me, have a big plastic bin
of printed materials I've received that I love.
I don't know what I'll do with it
but I'm glad I have it.
The basic elements will be your identity system.
With a stationary package and business card.
There are multiple ways of producing these
and we'll cover these in the next segment.
I found it useful to also have a set of cards or post-cards
that you can use to quickly jot down a note
or send a thank-you.
For many years, designers spent tens of thousands of dollars
producing big, flashy and lavishly printed booklets
show-casing their work.
At the time, this worked.
It reinforced that the designer was experienced
and successful.
This reassured larger corporate clients
who wanted the safety of the tried-and-true.
The problem with this approach however
is that the booklet is out of date
the minute it's completed.
One year later, and the projects were old.
The website took the place of this portfolio of work.
This opens the door to let the printed matter
portray the brand, message, and personality.
It no longer is the place to show every project.
Fortunately, now we can use digital printing
which is more economical in small quantities.
Rather than traditionally printing 5000 posters
you can print 50 limited editions
and mail them to potential and current clients.
Or, if you like a project
tack on another hundred pieces
and send it to your favorite clients and contacts.
Sign and number it
to make it personal.
This isn't the place to show your latest project.
The website does that job.
Nobody wants a poster with a project example.
So, make something that you would hang
in your own house.
I go back to the question
"Would I want that?"
If I would keep it, I'll print it.
Think about the items
that you've kept in that bin or drawer.
They're probably beautifully designed
but also have a unique point of view
that reflects the designer
who created it.