Collaboration

More perspectives open the design to more possibilities.

Scourges of designer cognitive biases

If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go brilliantly, go together.

Small Matters

Small Matters

Audio is no small matter but a cork pop sound effect may seem small. The critique concerned the quality fo sound effects The incorporation of audio elements is pivotal as they significantly contribute to the overall immersion of an experience.

Critiques on sound effects underscore their potential for misinterpretation and distraction, necessitating careful consideration in their placement and elaboration. The practical application of Foley criteria is that sound effects should not be heard (Talijan, 2024).

Basically this means understand what it is to appeal to the listener in tonality.

Interpretation Matters

Interpretation Matters

The flat design used for a motion video of dancers didn't read clearly. Design critiques regarding the flat aesthetic of a motion video reveal the significance of clear visualization of symbols and icons, which should serve to direct viewers' attention towards specific content or themes (Lawes, 2023).

Design critiques regarding the flat aesthetic of a motion video reveal the significance of clear visualization of symbols and icons, which should serve to direct viewers' attention towards specific content or themes. Changes were made by bending the arms to represent a more realistic human icon.

Keep it simple and understand semiotics.

Emotions Matter

Emotions Matter

A product designer consulted for the Colony Of Voice vision board came back with, '...the sea in the background creates a slightly unsettled feeling, almost a bit seasick.' The vision board is a communication tool for the design work, imagery can be used to communicate atmosphere (Felton, 2013)

Feedback from a product designer consulted on the Colony Of Voice vision board highlights the importance of strategic elimination of elements to enhance communication, thereby promoting clarity in design solutions. The representation of texture was removed from the vision board and addressed in more detail in the style guide.

First impressions are not based upon deep technical evaluation, so make a good one over a complete one.

Purpose Matters

Purpose Matters

There shouldn't be elements that do not contribute to the design because the can damage the design (Karjaluoto, 2014). The removal of extraneous flourishes can significantly contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of designs. Design principles emphasize the importance of aligning all visual elements with their intended function and purpose.

The gaps between intentions and reception sometimes reside in nuance. The strategic placement of imagery is vital for establishing a coherent atmosphere. Inappropriate use of chaotic or distracting elements can undermine design intent.

When showing not telling, it needs clarity not point of view. If it becomes discussable it may be too late.

Context Matters

Context Matters

Templates serve as essential tools for maintaining consistency across repetitive tasks by ensuring uniformity and reducing the likelihood of errors. They are a poke-yoke or mistake-proofing mechanisms. However, presenting templates in a manner that is overly detailed or cluttered may elicit negative feedback from clients.

Conversely, displaying the desired outcome while omitting unnecessary details can foster greater understanding and appreciation among target audiences.

If you give your child great instructions on how to ride a bike, don't skip buy medical supplies because it better to check the bike for problems but then appeal to the spirit of the rider.

Motion Matters

Motion Matters

The critique of the Colony of Voice animated logo was centered around its perceived lack of velocity, necessitating adjustments to streamline motion without compromising key visual elements. Applying traditional animation techniques and incorporating digi cel methods can significantly enhance the quality of motion design by leveraging established standards in animation (Shaw & Colette, 2022).

The number of elements in motion was reduced, and for the main moving logo, one of the 12 principles of animation was applied — squash and stretch. Proper application of established animation techniques can elevate motion design quality by introducing more fluid movements and polished visual elements.

This is a visual example of the curse of knowledge, and in this case there isn't time to explain everything about the brand in one motion design.

Polish Matters

Polish Matters

Designing a style guide centered on experiential education rather than referential memorization requires careful consideration of user experience versus explicit instructions. Effective design should foster intuitive understanding, avoiding potential confusion or misinterpretation.

The incorporation of elements that provide clarity and context is crucial for effective communication design. Details were also provided for further reference during the design process.

This just means too much complexity in expected experiential outcomes is the same as asking the user to have a crystal ball. Make it plain and simple.

Artificial (AI) Matters

Artificial (AI) Matters

Artificial intelligence's integration into the future of graphic design may present both opportunities (Alkahteeb et al., 2025) and challenges. While AI offers the potential to streamline repetitive tasks, it also raises questions regarding the role of human designers in an increasingly automated industry.

Self-evaluation revealed gaps between desired outcomes and actual capabilities concerning the creation this video explanations utilizing AI due to limitations such as lack of resources, time, and personnel.

There are advancements that will need to be accepted to keep up with the market.

References

Alkahteeb, S. S., Almomani, I. G., Zoubi, M. K., Issa, M. M., Al Smadi, M. A., Jaradat, H. A., & Abualhumos, T. M. (2025). Artificial Intelligence in Graphic Design Processes: The Impact Analysis and Challenges. Journal of Mu’tah Lil-Buḥūth Wad-Dirāsāt: Humanities & Social Sciences Series, 40(1), 35–52. Academic Search Complete (191562826).

Felton, G. (2013). Advertising: Concept and copy (Third edition). W.W. Norton & Company.

Karjaluoto, E. (2014). The design method: A philosophy and process for functional visual communication. New Riders.

Lawes, R. (2023). Using Semiotics in Marketing: How to Achieve Consumer Insight for Brand Growth and Profits (2nd ed). Kogan Page, Limited.

Shaw, A., & Colette, J. (2022). Motion Design Toolkit: Principles, practice, and techniques. ROUTLEDGE. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003200529

Talijan, E. (2024). Introduction to Foley sound. Soundtrack, 16(1), 3–10. Academic Search Complete (179696108). https://doi.org/10.1386/ts_00029_2

The Purpose and Value of Templates. (2024, October 30). https://copyenglish.com/the-purpose-and-value-of-templates/