Learn
What do I believe in?
I believe in listening and asking questions to understand what problem a company, department, or person is looking to solve, before building a strategy. Communication, research, and collaboration are the foundations to discovering creative designs with purpose, insight, and relevance. I love research. It is the first step in the design process and in “design thinking” to which I enjoy the most. In particularly, researching companies and their history, brands, and competitors. The ability to find that nugget of information from that research that will transform the current problem into a creative solution and strategy. I believe in creating well-defined work that enhances the customer experience, changes perceptions, and sets companies apart from their competition. Above all, I always want to learn more.
I read blogs about logos, (before and after), leadership, management, and how I can improve myself professionally. I also read about the psychology of people’s behaviors through their brand interactions. I find it fascinating, how we as designers, can help influence people. And how, we as marketers can interpret that information to change people’s lives and habits.
Strategy
How do I work?
There are many methods to utilize depending upon the desired outcome. Developing customer journeys, design thinking, service design, or lean techniques are just the beginning to developing a strategy that meets business objectives. These are the building blocks to creating a marketing campaigns and a meaningful brand. Though none of which are able to work correctly without proper presentation or communication.
What has been my experience?
I have lead small groups to develop brands and their identities by hosting brainstorming and design thinking sessions. I have taught people about their company, its history and its beliefs though employee “Boot Camps.” Even developed process maps to better the department. The most satisfying accomplishments are done as a group. Yes, you can have individual recognition. But nothing is more rewarding then pulling something together from nothing as one group with a desired focus.
Design
What have I done?
I have predominantly been and in-house designer through my career. That means that I have had to wear many hats and figure out how to do things with little direction. From working with executives to determine new business objectives for new logos, to developing marketing collateral and event signage, there hasn’t been much that I have not dabbled in.
I still love to design, and my style is clean and polished. My designs work best off a grid system and modular in nature. This meticulous nature is why I like to design brand standards and make sure others are using them correctly.
Manage
What have I managed?
I have helped build an entire cross functional marketing team from three people to eight while training developers, designers and copywriters along the way. I learned how to manage and motivate my employees, building on their strengths, not their weaknesses. Communicating the vision and allowing people to be a participant, not a task taker builds trust and respect. Having a strong vision empowers the employees and provides easier collaboration between the UX designers, band managers, junior designers, and management.
Who have I worked with?
I have worked with sign makers to put logos on buildings, while procuring the proper permits from city or county. I have designed office settings and interior graphics. Worked with trade show vendors to develop booths for major venues. Printers, trade dress (such as vehicle decals), advertisers, and web development agencies; check, check and double-check. I have even designed an entire resort in Gateway, Colorado. All of these I worked to manage the project’s scope, budget, and client expectations.
I feel that it is important to design, manage, and find new ways to move a company forward.