Today has been a very productive ‘sketchbook day’. This has involved going back to the sketchbook individual pages, and ensuring it is in a coherent order. Whilst doing so I ensured that there was nothing missing which would result in a fragmented understanding of the work process.
There were a few pieces which I was aware that were missing at the beginning of the day, namely the contacts sheet from the photoshoot, and also the mock photoshoot write up. These were successfully completed by the end of the day.
I was acknowledged that the sketchbook would have to be bound. I should make a decision as to whether I would get this bound at home (Melton Mowbray) or back at University, in Preston. I decided that I would get as much of the work completed at home as possible, in order to eliminate any stresses on the return journey.
With regards to the report, at the stage it is nearly completed! It is still just over the word count (about 300 words over), however continuous reading through of this should enable me to get the word count down. I was necessary for me to distinguish the persuasion section of the report, as – at present – this was interlinked into the promotion section, which might be questioned where marking is concerned.
What next?
Tomorrow is my last full day at home, therefore I must finish things are finally as a possibly can. This will involve a finally check through of the sketchbook, finalisations to be made to the customer profile box (including an association to the appendix). Moreover, the timelog should be printed off, up to date, and a creative cover to link in with the rest of the project should be considered.
Friday, 8 January 2010
Monday, 4 January 2010
Continued work on the report
Over the last few days work has focused primarily on the completion of the report – a contents page has been created, and each section has been numbered accordingly, therefore the report is really taking shape! It is, however, necessary to considered that page numbers will be different when the report is put onto its A3 scale format.
This will be much narrower as the report will sit into the Wellington boot as if it is a sock (linking to the sock touched on in the report, given away at the promotional launch). It is therefore not necessary to spend a lot of time at present focusing on the structure itself, rather it is more important to concentrate on the content.
The report is still over the word count by 1000 words which is a very significant number. I was necessary to discuss whether sections could be interlinked in order to produce a more coherent report, which was within the word limit. It was desired that the report was visually impacting, as this is what research has pointed towards throughout. Therefore images were included as figures, and referenced in a figure list.
The bibliography was constantly updated with the redrafting, ensuring that if references were taken out of the main body, they were likewise taken out of the report.
What next?
I must continue working on the report, redrafting it. I must also revisit the sketchbook, and make further progress in completing this. It is necessary to likewise revisit the customer profile box to make a few changes/ additions to this.
This will be much narrower as the report will sit into the Wellington boot as if it is a sock (linking to the sock touched on in the report, given away at the promotional launch). It is therefore not necessary to spend a lot of time at present focusing on the structure itself, rather it is more important to concentrate on the content.
The report is still over the word count by 1000 words which is a very significant number. I was necessary to discuss whether sections could be interlinked in order to produce a more coherent report, which was within the word limit. It was desired that the report was visually impacting, as this is what research has pointed towards throughout. Therefore images were included as figures, and referenced in a figure list.
The bibliography was constantly updated with the redrafting, ensuring that if references were taken out of the main body, they were likewise taken out of the report.
What next?
I must continue working on the report, redrafting it. I must also revisit the sketchbook, and make further progress in completing this. It is necessary to likewise revisit the customer profile box to make a few changes/ additions to this.
Tuesday, 29 December 2009
Considering future developments
Today I got round to writing the conclusion of the report, as specified by the report template this should include a SWOT analysis (as produced for the PowerPoint presentation), and a section on possible future development for the Signature Boot. With the benefit of hindsight it is possible to discuss modifying decisions regarding the Signature Boot.
There is the opportunity for additional features to be added, for example handles. This is a feature adopted by top designers Wellington Boots yet something which could be transferred to high street level. This would be a useful feature as many people care their Wellington’s once the festival is over. The Wellington could therefore become a handbag for bits and pieces accumulated over the festival. Moreover, if successful, the product could be produced with a male consumer in mind, sold through Topman.
The customer profile board accompanying this report considers this. It would not be possible to produce a ‘unisex’ Signature Boot because of gender differences in physique and preferences, yet the boot would have slight variations in style and colour ranges, being slightly taller to accommodate for the new prospective customer, and would be available in larger sizes, up to size 11 as sold by Topshop presently. The price would have to be altered accordingly. Possible future campaign for the Topman launch of Signature Boot.
What next?
I have reached the end of the report now with regards to writing it, however it is necessary to continuously redraft this in order to reduce the margin for any errors. It is also necessary to consider a creative format. At present I have considered creating a really long (A3 length) report, and having this particularly narrow. This could then sit inside the Signature Boot. The front cover would be stripey as if it was a hippy persons sock. It would then bound accordingly.
There is the opportunity for additional features to be added, for example handles. This is a feature adopted by top designers Wellington Boots yet something which could be transferred to high street level. This would be a useful feature as many people care their Wellington’s once the festival is over. The Wellington could therefore become a handbag for bits and pieces accumulated over the festival. Moreover, if successful, the product could be produced with a male consumer in mind, sold through Topman.
The customer profile board accompanying this report considers this. It would not be possible to produce a ‘unisex’ Signature Boot because of gender differences in physique and preferences, yet the boot would have slight variations in style and colour ranges, being slightly taller to accommodate for the new prospective customer, and would be available in larger sizes, up to size 11 as sold by Topshop presently. The price would have to be altered accordingly. Possible future campaign for the Topman launch of Signature Boot.
What next?
I have reached the end of the report now with regards to writing it, however it is necessary to continuously redraft this in order to reduce the margin for any errors. It is also necessary to consider a creative format. At present I have considered creating a really long (A3 length) report, and having this particularly narrow. This could then sit inside the Signature Boot. The front cover would be stripey as if it was a hippy persons sock. It would then bound accordingly.
Sunday, 20 December 2009
Reading for Report Writing
Last night I commenced my report writing. I initially looked on-line for advice and guidance about how to write a report. I decided that I would initially focus on report content, before moving on to consider a creative format.
Books which I initially looked at to references included: Living with Colour – the workbook for managing the colours in your home. The book by Dereyck Healey proved very useful when discussing the selection of colours I chose to produce my products in.
A further book which proved useful was Fashion Brands – Branding Style from Armani to Zara. I used the index page in here to locate any information on the brand Topshop which could be used to support my arguments for choosing this brand.
Colour in Industrial Design, written by Dale Russell was invaluable when it came to discussion colour both in my product and my forms of promotion, resulting in a well-rounded argument as to how I made my ‘colour ways’ decisions.
The most useful book that I looked at up to this stage was actually quite dated, however Fashion Advertising and Promotion, by Arthur A. Winters and Stanley Goodman proved very useful in content regarding my methods of promotion. It also included diagrams which would be extremely pertinent, and should be used as figures within the report to illumine claims and discussion.
What next?
Next I should continue to read the above book Fashion Advertising and Promotion. I have extracted quality quotes and made note of page numbers of diagrams. By the end of today I should put these in their relevant sections of the report, enabling myself to structure the report around them. I must also continue to read other texts.
Books which I initially looked at to references included: Living with Colour – the workbook for managing the colours in your home. The book by Dereyck Healey proved very useful when discussing the selection of colours I chose to produce my products in.
A further book which proved useful was Fashion Brands – Branding Style from Armani to Zara. I used the index page in here to locate any information on the brand Topshop which could be used to support my arguments for choosing this brand.
Colour in Industrial Design, written by Dale Russell was invaluable when it came to discussion colour both in my product and my forms of promotion, resulting in a well-rounded argument as to how I made my ‘colour ways’ decisions.
The most useful book that I looked at up to this stage was actually quite dated, however Fashion Advertising and Promotion, by Arthur A. Winters and Stanley Goodman proved very useful in content regarding my methods of promotion. It also included diagrams which would be extremely pertinent, and should be used as figures within the report to illumine claims and discussion.
What next?
Next I should continue to read the above book Fashion Advertising and Promotion. I have extracted quality quotes and made note of page numbers of diagrams. By the end of today I should put these in their relevant sections of the report, enabling myself to structure the report around them. I must also continue to read other texts.
Saturday, 19 December 2009
Starting to write the Report
I have just returned home for Christmas. The practical part of this project was handed in on Thursday – in time for the deadline. It is now time to commence on the report writing. It is necessary to refer to the PowerPoint I completed in Dragon’s Den style.
I looked at the different sections included here, and intertwined this into my research and former knowledge into report writing and compiled at contents list which, at this initial stage, included the following: List of Tables and Figures, Abbreviations, Product, Price, Place, Promotion, People and Persuasion. When researching into formatting a report I came across a section for inclusion entitled acknowledgements.
It is from here that I was inspired to include Collin Williamson, for accompanying me around his plastic factory, and Sarah, Mike and Laura from Wedge Wellies for helping me realize the weaknesses in my product and helping me overcome them. Research also taught me that the front page of a report (the title page) is very important for setting the tone of the report and thus should not be overcrowded.
It did however suggest that a company logo could be included. This inspired me with regards to my ‘creative format’ I considered that I could write this report from the perspective of a company. It was up to me to decide whether this would be an official from Topshop, a Glastonbury festival representative, or somebody from a creative agency.
What next?
I must continue my report writing. I will utilize the holidays wisely, paying particular attention to the desired writing style as well as the topic, reading behind the subject. Future blog updates will contain information about books that I have read.
I looked at the different sections included here, and intertwined this into my research and former knowledge into report writing and compiled at contents list which, at this initial stage, included the following: List of Tables and Figures, Abbreviations, Product, Price, Place, Promotion, People and Persuasion. When researching into formatting a report I came across a section for inclusion entitled acknowledgements.
It is from here that I was inspired to include Collin Williamson, for accompanying me around his plastic factory, and Sarah, Mike and Laura from Wedge Wellies for helping me realize the weaknesses in my product and helping me overcome them. Research also taught me that the front page of a report (the title page) is very important for setting the tone of the report and thus should not be overcrowded.
It did however suggest that a company logo could be included. This inspired me with regards to my ‘creative format’ I considered that I could write this report from the perspective of a company. It was up to me to decide whether this would be an official from Topshop, a Glastonbury festival representative, or somebody from a creative agency.
What next?
I must continue my report writing. I will utilize the holidays wisely, paying particular attention to the desired writing style as well as the topic, reading behind the subject. Future blog updates will contain information about books that I have read.
Sunday, 22 November 2009
Progress made since last update
On my last blog update I state that I would have to get started on the web design element of this project. Instead, however, I focussed my attentions on the forms of promotion generally.
One was to be a press pack – at present I have the gift sorted - a Wellington boot soap, and have written the press release and have some samples to put inside the pack. I have a theme in mind - a sort of festival wash pack that I am aiming to create.
I must then create the aforementioned website – however to do so I must have all graphics etc completed before this stage. I must then create two other relevant forms of promotion – one would be my blog and Facebook group – I must consider interesting ways to present these.
I felt that billboard advertising would be effective; therefore I started creating the graphics from these, using images from the internet. However, billboards can be seen as an easy-get-out form of promotion, I therefore considered ways in which I could make them more interactive etc.
The images I created were very effective and could be used as banner ads alongside the website. This would ensure continuity throughout the site.
At present I am dabbling in web design for another brief, consequently skills that I learn there can be implemented into this website design; making it holy relevant to the customer.
What next?
Next I must focus on finalising these forms of promotion, I must also work on the elements that go alongside the press pack, even if I finish these in draft at least it is a step in the correct direction. This must include a list of relevant journalists to invite, therefore I will continue along this line of thought.
One was to be a press pack – at present I have the gift sorted - a Wellington boot soap, and have written the press release and have some samples to put inside the pack. I have a theme in mind - a sort of festival wash pack that I am aiming to create.
I must then create the aforementioned website – however to do so I must have all graphics etc completed before this stage. I must then create two other relevant forms of promotion – one would be my blog and Facebook group – I must consider interesting ways to present these.
I felt that billboard advertising would be effective; therefore I started creating the graphics from these, using images from the internet. However, billboards can be seen as an easy-get-out form of promotion, I therefore considered ways in which I could make them more interactive etc.
The images I created were very effective and could be used as banner ads alongside the website. This would ensure continuity throughout the site.
At present I am dabbling in web design for another brief, consequently skills that I learn there can be implemented into this website design; making it holy relevant to the customer.
What next?
Next I must focus on finalising these forms of promotion, I must also work on the elements that go alongside the press pack, even if I finish these in draft at least it is a step in the correct direction. This must include a list of relevant journalists to invite, therefore I will continue along this line of thought.
Saturday, 14 November 2009
Recent Achievements:
Progress over the last couple of days:
Great progress has been made since the last blog update. Research has been conducted into Guerrilla Marketing techniques, as explored by Levinson. The analysis of art work I the form of dressed trees was also an area that was looked into.
I took inspiration gained from the analysis of these ideas into photoshop, and experimented with trees and Wellington boots simultaneously – the outcome was more experimental than desirable!
Most notably I managed to create another form of promotion. This came as a blog, this was linked with a widget to my Facebook ‘Signature Boot’ page, and facilitated updates that a typical fashion-related blog site would launch, for example updates, forums of discussion and debate – facilitated by the commenting option. I had to think about how I would present this to my peers in the most effective way – a book? On boards??
Next I considered a ‘relevant’ form of promotion, by this I meant something which specifically related to my product and customer identity. I therefore chose badges. I used Illustrator as the software to create these badges. Through research I discovered that there were two main sizes – 77mm and 58mm, therefore I worked along these guidelines using circles to represent the edge of the badge.
This in itself was a form of promotion, and a fairly effective one – people would go around wearig these badges, consequently it links to bandwagon advertising, people would spark up conversation centred on the badges, and by the end of the discussion they would feel as though they ‘had’ to have the badge.
I would send these off to a professional company to get made up. Again I had to think of a way that these would be presented – would I superimpose them onto garments on photoshop, or would I present them physically on a garment or board for my hand in.
I also chose my press gift – this was to be a Wellington boot soap – green in colour, consequently it linked to the concept of the environmentally friendly Wellington, whilst also coinciding with previous areas explored throughout the campaign – ensuring continuity.
What next?
Next I must work on the four forms of promotion, starting with the website design – this will be my primary focus for the next few days.
Great progress has been made since the last blog update. Research has been conducted into Guerrilla Marketing techniques, as explored by Levinson. The analysis of art work I the form of dressed trees was also an area that was looked into.
I took inspiration gained from the analysis of these ideas into photoshop, and experimented with trees and Wellington boots simultaneously – the outcome was more experimental than desirable!
Most notably I managed to create another form of promotion. This came as a blog, this was linked with a widget to my Facebook ‘Signature Boot’ page, and facilitated updates that a typical fashion-related blog site would launch, for example updates, forums of discussion and debate – facilitated by the commenting option. I had to think about how I would present this to my peers in the most effective way – a book? On boards??
Next I considered a ‘relevant’ form of promotion, by this I meant something which specifically related to my product and customer identity. I therefore chose badges. I used Illustrator as the software to create these badges. Through research I discovered that there were two main sizes – 77mm and 58mm, therefore I worked along these guidelines using circles to represent the edge of the badge.
This in itself was a form of promotion, and a fairly effective one – people would go around wearig these badges, consequently it links to bandwagon advertising, people would spark up conversation centred on the badges, and by the end of the discussion they would feel as though they ‘had’ to have the badge.
I would send these off to a professional company to get made up. Again I had to think of a way that these would be presented – would I superimpose them onto garments on photoshop, or would I present them physically on a garment or board for my hand in.
I also chose my press gift – this was to be a Wellington boot soap – green in colour, consequently it linked to the concept of the environmentally friendly Wellington, whilst also coinciding with previous areas explored throughout the campaign – ensuring continuity.
What next?
Next I must work on the four forms of promotion, starting with the website design – this will be my primary focus for the next few days.
Wednesday, 11 November 2009
Considering marketing techniques
After a workshop today I had become more aware of Guerrilla marketing techniques, first implemented by Levinson. It is a popular marketing strategy that encourages intercept encounters, for example creating a tangible form of promotion for the consumer.
I had an initial idea of making a tree look very much like a hippy, by tying ribbons in the branches at the top (the hair), and then by having bracelets on the branches slightly further down, (the arms) maybe some knitwear along the way, and then the Wellington boots down by the roots at the bottom. When I looked further into this, something similar had already been done, however this just goes to demonstrate that the concept is viable.
An issue surrounded how I would go about representing my intentions; would I edit these pieces in on photo shop, or would I actually have to go about creating this in real life.
I still wasn’t convinced with this idea, and thus I continued to experiment in my mind.
I had an idea about a way to represent a form of promotion for a magazine; this was in crossword format; the answers would either be readily provided for the reader, or alternatively they would just be left the clues. I must fid a way to specifically suggest that it is the Signature Boot that I am referring to amongst all of this.
When it came to creating the crossword, I used Illustrator – that way I could ensure that I was correctly aligning the boxes, I referred to an original crossword for clues about authentic layout, and typical additions etc, I wanted this to look as real as possible yet with something, possibly the logo, that made the viewer think – hang on a minute… this is a promotion!
I could set up a scheme whereby every correct purchase got 10% off of the purchase of a pair of signature boots. However I must consider the 10% student discount that the Topshop is renowned for. Yet I could use this advantageously.
What next?
I must now continue to work on ideas as to how I would represent my forms of promotion, whether a photoshoot will be necessary, or whether I will rely on digital imaging to help portray my campaign.
I had an initial idea of making a tree look very much like a hippy, by tying ribbons in the branches at the top (the hair), and then by having bracelets on the branches slightly further down, (the arms) maybe some knitwear along the way, and then the Wellington boots down by the roots at the bottom. When I looked further into this, something similar had already been done, however this just goes to demonstrate that the concept is viable.
An issue surrounded how I would go about representing my intentions; would I edit these pieces in on photo shop, or would I actually have to go about creating this in real life.
I still wasn’t convinced with this idea, and thus I continued to experiment in my mind.
I had an idea about a way to represent a form of promotion for a magazine; this was in crossword format; the answers would either be readily provided for the reader, or alternatively they would just be left the clues. I must fid a way to specifically suggest that it is the Signature Boot that I am referring to amongst all of this.
When it came to creating the crossword, I used Illustrator – that way I could ensure that I was correctly aligning the boxes, I referred to an original crossword for clues about authentic layout, and typical additions etc, I wanted this to look as real as possible yet with something, possibly the logo, that made the viewer think – hang on a minute… this is a promotion!
I could set up a scheme whereby every correct purchase got 10% off of the purchase of a pair of signature boots. However I must consider the 10% student discount that the Topshop is renowned for. Yet I could use this advantageously.
What next?
I must now continue to work on ideas as to how I would represent my forms of promotion, whether a photoshoot will be necessary, or whether I will rely on digital imaging to help portray my campaign.
Saturday, 7 November 2009
Achievements since my last post:
What I have achieved:
Right, well it’s definitely gone past midnight, so this qualifies as Sunday’s blog.
Achievements of … well, yesterday!
I communicated with Octavia, a girl from my course who I also think would be the perfect model for my project because of her quirky looks – she also has the wardrobe of an indie-type girl, which definitely helps.
Whilst talking through town I was inspired by a Tanya doll that I saw. It was the black equivalent of a Barbie doll, and clothed in bright colours – this made me see that bright hippy-esque attire would look so vibrant and lovely on a black model, and therefore I went about sourcing one of these, considering a girl from my course for this also.
I considered the use of another girl I had been around campus, but tracking her down was a major issue as I had no form of contact and didn’t even know her name.
I produced a questionnaire to help me further my progress within this project. I needed to be absolutely positive that the line of thought I was continuing down was correct for the product, for example had I eventually got the brand right, and was the festival endorsement correct – all of these things needed to be assessed and evaluated.
It was also necessary to find out more about my customer, for example the age of those who are buying into wellies, their gender, desires and requirements.
What next?
I have printed off 50 copies of this questionnaire, because of the sheer expense of printing, I am going to ensure that I hand these questionnaires out in person, because this amplifies the likelihood of: A. getting the questionnaire back, and B. getting is back with haste! I aim to have collated all of the information into an Excel spreadsheet by the end of tomorrow for analysis.
Right, well it’s definitely gone past midnight, so this qualifies as Sunday’s blog.
Achievements of … well, yesterday!
I communicated with Octavia, a girl from my course who I also think would be the perfect model for my project because of her quirky looks – she also has the wardrobe of an indie-type girl, which definitely helps.
Whilst talking through town I was inspired by a Tanya doll that I saw. It was the black equivalent of a Barbie doll, and clothed in bright colours – this made me see that bright hippy-esque attire would look so vibrant and lovely on a black model, and therefore I went about sourcing one of these, considering a girl from my course for this also.
I considered the use of another girl I had been around campus, but tracking her down was a major issue as I had no form of contact and didn’t even know her name.
I produced a questionnaire to help me further my progress within this project. I needed to be absolutely positive that the line of thought I was continuing down was correct for the product, for example had I eventually got the brand right, and was the festival endorsement correct – all of these things needed to be assessed and evaluated.
It was also necessary to find out more about my customer, for example the age of those who are buying into wellies, their gender, desires and requirements.
What next?
I have printed off 50 copies of this questionnaire, because of the sheer expense of printing, I am going to ensure that I hand these questionnaires out in person, because this amplifies the likelihood of: A. getting the questionnaire back, and B. getting is back with haste! I aim to have collated all of the information into an Excel spreadsheet by the end of tomorrow for analysis.
Completing the press release - ahead of schedule
Yesterday I managed to work on into the early hours, and consequently completed my press release for the Signature Boots; I put Topshop in as the brand as at this point I was convinced that this was my new line of enquiry.
The release came up to just over 500 words, which is the appropriate length for a press release; it is typically suggested that 500 words is the minimum.
However, I next had to consider how I was to format this. My initial idea was to format is on a scarf; this would then also incorporate the press gift. The scarf would have to be purchased from the Topshop store as a self endorsing item.
However, it is important to consider the technicalities, how would I attached the release to the scarf in such a way that it would be readable, whilst also being wearable after the journalist has written the desired article.
My next idea was to have the press release formatted inside an empty packet of face wipes. Face wipes are obviously a festival necessity; this is where this link comes into play. However it is important to consider how this would work. The last sentence that the journalist would write would have to be placed in the face wipe packet first, so that it would be pulled out last – so on an so forth. It is the necessary to consider what type of fabric or material would be best; bearing in mind that it must be malleable.
My final idea was to print the release onto fabric and then to make it into something, for example a hat, socks, or a scarf – or any other festival related item.
What next?
I must consider further ways to format the press release, whilst considering other elements of the press pack.
Ultimately, I must think of the concept of my model and contact these models; who would work best etc.
The release came up to just over 500 words, which is the appropriate length for a press release; it is typically suggested that 500 words is the minimum.
However, I next had to consider how I was to format this. My initial idea was to format is on a scarf; this would then also incorporate the press gift. The scarf would have to be purchased from the Topshop store as a self endorsing item.
However, it is important to consider the technicalities, how would I attached the release to the scarf in such a way that it would be readable, whilst also being wearable after the journalist has written the desired article.
My next idea was to have the press release formatted inside an empty packet of face wipes. Face wipes are obviously a festival necessity; this is where this link comes into play. However it is important to consider how this would work. The last sentence that the journalist would write would have to be placed in the face wipe packet first, so that it would be pulled out last – so on an so forth. It is the necessary to consider what type of fabric or material would be best; bearing in mind that it must be malleable.
My final idea was to print the release onto fabric and then to make it into something, for example a hat, socks, or a scarf – or any other festival related item.
What next?
I must consider further ways to format the press release, whilst considering other elements of the press pack.
Ultimately, I must think of the concept of my model and contact these models; who would work best etc.
Friday, 6 November 2009
Completing my 'customer profile board'.
What I have completed:
Today I completed my ‘customer profile board’; I use inverted commas as such, because it is more of a box. I have kept in with my theme of ‘keepsake’ throughout this project, and my customer profile board really reflects this.
I have used a wine case with two separate compartments, in one section I have included details about my primary customer, and in the second I have included details about my secondary customer.
I feel that this is a very successful way of representing my target group without using the traditional means of presentation. It reflects the whole concept of keeping things for sentimental value. The male and female shown are boyfriend and girlfriend and the box acts as mementos of things they do together, or have brought each other.
Today I have also been further communicating with Colin at Smile Plastics. It seems that the only option for me is to buy the £85 roll of plastic sheet – unless either of us thinks of an alternative.
I will maintain this conversation until we reach a solution.
Next stop:
Write the press release. To this I must think of a style I need to go along with, I feel the hippy-esque attitude that I used in my presentation really worked, and will look around for more hippy terms and phraseology. I will also have to think of puns for feets, boots and anything shoe-related.
Today I completed my ‘customer profile board’; I use inverted commas as such, because it is more of a box. I have kept in with my theme of ‘keepsake’ throughout this project, and my customer profile board really reflects this.
I have used a wine case with two separate compartments, in one section I have included details about my primary customer, and in the second I have included details about my secondary customer.
I feel that this is a very successful way of representing my target group without using the traditional means of presentation. It reflects the whole concept of keeping things for sentimental value. The male and female shown are boyfriend and girlfriend and the box acts as mementos of things they do together, or have brought each other.
Today I have also been further communicating with Colin at Smile Plastics. It seems that the only option for me is to buy the £85 roll of plastic sheet – unless either of us thinks of an alternative.
I will maintain this conversation until we reach a solution.
Next stop:
Write the press release. To this I must think of a style I need to go along with, I feel the hippy-esque attitude that I used in my presentation really worked, and will look around for more hippy terms and phraseology. I will also have to think of puns for feets, boots and anything shoe-related.
Thursday, 5 November 2009
What I have achieved:
Achievements:
Today has been more of a brain-storming day, rather than a practical work day.
My main focus was to consider how to display my customer profile board, bearing in mind that I had the primary customer of the teenage girl, and the secondary customer of the teenage boy.
These were to be represented through my previously-purchased Barbie and Ken dolls, however how could I present these in an interesting and appropriate format?
Inspiration actually came from a box I was intending to use for a previous project of mine.
The box was a wooden wine holder with two separate compartments, I initially considered putting Barbie in one, and Ken in another, however I ultimately decided that it would be more effective to put these on the lid that slid off. I would then fill the contents of the box with things that brought to mind hobbies, clubs, outings, holidays - things that my teenagers would typically do.
This box represents a keepsake box - very much like my Wellington boot, which is a keepsake item.
Little cards and photographs would be placed inside, maybe with hand scrawled notes, in keeping with the theme.
What next?
Unfortunately an incident with this box meant that it was broken and thus not suitable for use. I therefore must purchase one of these, and ensure I have everything else required for use, e.g. photographic paper, and luggage type tags.
Today has been more of a brain-storming day, rather than a practical work day.
My main focus was to consider how to display my customer profile board, bearing in mind that I had the primary customer of the teenage girl, and the secondary customer of the teenage boy.
These were to be represented through my previously-purchased Barbie and Ken dolls, however how could I present these in an interesting and appropriate format?
Inspiration actually came from a box I was intending to use for a previous project of mine.
The box was a wooden wine holder with two separate compartments, I initially considered putting Barbie in one, and Ken in another, however I ultimately decided that it would be more effective to put these on the lid that slid off. I would then fill the contents of the box with things that brought to mind hobbies, clubs, outings, holidays - things that my teenagers would typically do.
This box represents a keepsake box - very much like my Wellington boot, which is a keepsake item.
Little cards and photographs would be placed inside, maybe with hand scrawled notes, in keeping with the theme.
What next?
Unfortunately an incident with this box meant that it was broken and thus not suitable for use. I therefore must purchase one of these, and ensure I have everything else required for use, e.g. photographic paper, and luggage type tags.
Wednesday, 4 November 2009
Primary research - visit to the Smile Plastics factory
My Visit to Smile Plastics Factory.
I left this morning to visit the plastic factory, and arrived in Southport to derelict building, full of huge machinery – and lots of recyclable plastics in store!
It was so educational/exciting and all of the other clichés.
I took lots of photographs to be analysed in my sketchbook – I am to have completed this by tonight.
Colin also allowed me to take samples away with me for analysis, which I did.
Next I must annotate these and display them in my sketchbook, or alternatively find a means of displaying them that will carry the weight.
I sent Colin an email post my visit, I thanked him for the opportunity and said that I would definitely like to use Smile Plastics further in my project, stating specifically that I would like to purchase some plastic from him – this came in a massive roll and would be suitable for my entire press pack contents and container, however it was important that I attempted to get the cost, as this was £75 at present, a very hefty sum!
What next?
I will attempt to complete my customer profile board.
I left this morning to visit the plastic factory, and arrived in Southport to derelict building, full of huge machinery – and lots of recyclable plastics in store!
It was so educational/exciting and all of the other clichés.
I took lots of photographs to be analysed in my sketchbook – I am to have completed this by tonight.
Colin also allowed me to take samples away with me for analysis, which I did.
Next I must annotate these and display them in my sketchbook, or alternatively find a means of displaying them that will carry the weight.
I sent Colin an email post my visit, I thanked him for the opportunity and said that I would definitely like to use Smile Plastics further in my project, stating specifically that I would like to purchase some plastic from him – this came in a massive roll and would be suitable for my entire press pack contents and container, however it was important that I attempted to get the cost, as this was £75 at present, a very hefty sum!
What next?
I will attempt to complete my customer profile board.
Tuesday, 3 November 2009
Today's achievements:
My Productive Day:
Today has been very productive; I have printed off, stuck down and annotated a lot of work that has not been documented – due to lack of ink and the postal strike.
I visited ‘Toys R us’ and purchased some very hippy-esque clothing for my Barbie and Ken dolls, ready for the production of my customer profile board. I also utilised a poster from inside the Glastonbury Review, which I will consider using as a backdrop for my customer profile board.
The fact that I am using Barbie has resonance, relating to a conversation I had with Colin Williams from Smile Plastics, about the melting down and thus recycling of Barbie Dolls into plastic sheets to be used as designer work surfaces etc.
I have communicated with Colin from Smile Plastics who has told me that tomorrow looks promising for on the agenda. I am therefore using the remainder of the night as preparation for tomorrow, for example notebook and pen at the ready, camera on charge, everything packed!
I must utilise the day tomorrow to the best of my ability – I will buy samples of the Wellingtons if that is what is required, although I endeavour to use my charm to get as much free as humanely possible. Tomorrow I must document the day in sketchbook format, annotating images and samples provided for me.
What next?
I must get some sleep in preparation for a very hectic day!
Today has been very productive; I have printed off, stuck down and annotated a lot of work that has not been documented – due to lack of ink and the postal strike.
I visited ‘Toys R us’ and purchased some very hippy-esque clothing for my Barbie and Ken dolls, ready for the production of my customer profile board. I also utilised a poster from inside the Glastonbury Review, which I will consider using as a backdrop for my customer profile board.
The fact that I am using Barbie has resonance, relating to a conversation I had with Colin Williams from Smile Plastics, about the melting down and thus recycling of Barbie Dolls into plastic sheets to be used as designer work surfaces etc.
I have communicated with Colin from Smile Plastics who has told me that tomorrow looks promising for on the agenda. I am therefore using the remainder of the night as preparation for tomorrow, for example notebook and pen at the ready, camera on charge, everything packed!
I must utilise the day tomorrow to the best of my ability – I will buy samples of the Wellingtons if that is what is required, although I endeavour to use my charm to get as much free as humanely possible. Tomorrow I must document the day in sketchbook format, annotating images and samples provided for me.
What next?
I must get some sleep in preparation for a very hectic day!
Saturday, 31 October 2009
Research into River Island Employment
Today I must research further into exactly what it is that River Island looks out for in their staff. To do so I must locate an application form, to check the criteria, to make sure that the ‘people’ I am employing live up to this – if not, specialist training would be given.
What I achieved:
I located the form on the internet, the first and foremost question revolved around availability.
Questions then moved on to age, fashion retail experience, education, and right the work.
I filled in these questions in order to move onto the next stage.
I answered these from my perspective as a Sales Assistant at Newlook, therefore my retail experience was very high, having worked for the company for 3 ½ years.
I received feedback from the first set of questions which says that there was a great match between me and the criteria for a Sales Advisor for River Island, this was demonstrated in a table.
I next had to tell them more about my past experiences, and situations which I may or may not have had to handle.
This was ‘scenario’ type questions, yet there was no opportunity to elaborate of explain. I received feedback from this, then next I had to provide contact details – I would be updated of my progress via email.
I eagerly await this response.
What I achieved:
I located the form on the internet, the first and foremost question revolved around availability.
Questions then moved on to age, fashion retail experience, education, and right the work.
I filled in these questions in order to move onto the next stage.
I answered these from my perspective as a Sales Assistant at Newlook, therefore my retail experience was very high, having worked for the company for 3 ½ years.
I received feedback from the first set of questions which says that there was a great match between me and the criteria for a Sales Advisor for River Island, this was demonstrated in a table.
I next had to tell them more about my past experiences, and situations which I may or may not have had to handle.
This was ‘scenario’ type questions, yet there was no opportunity to elaborate of explain. I received feedback from this, then next I had to provide contact details – I would be updated of my progress via email.
I eagerly await this response.
Friday, 30 October 2009
Sketchbook Day
Today I must arrange a suitable time and date to visit the Smile factory in Southport.
I arranged to meet Colin Williamson on the coming Wednesday, but I took his number as things change in the industry and it’s important to take this into consideration. I must consider how I will get to Southport, the transport links and the costs.
I corresponded further with Sue from the Glastonbury office who assured me that she had put Glastonbury promotions in the post today, so I should receive them shortly which is very exciting!
Today I am going to be scouring Preston high street for different Wellington boots, analysing the prices and looking for a suitable brand from Glastonbury to collaborate with. I will note the competitors what I have no yet considered. I must then put these in sketchbook format.
What I achieved:
Today I have been working on collating all of my findings so far, this included research into existing ‘decorate your wellies’ services and Wellington customisation in general. Furthermore I annotated print screens and printout from environmentally friendly companies, ‘how can I recycle this?’ forum discussions, current services, Wedge Wellies, a case study: A Welly Good Idea and analysis of my PowerPoint slides.
Next I must research further into potential brands which would support my concept and product line.
I arranged to meet Colin Williamson on the coming Wednesday, but I took his number as things change in the industry and it’s important to take this into consideration. I must consider how I will get to Southport, the transport links and the costs.
I corresponded further with Sue from the Glastonbury office who assured me that she had put Glastonbury promotions in the post today, so I should receive them shortly which is very exciting!
Today I am going to be scouring Preston high street for different Wellington boots, analysing the prices and looking for a suitable brand from Glastonbury to collaborate with. I will note the competitors what I have no yet considered. I must then put these in sketchbook format.
What I achieved:
Today I have been working on collating all of my findings so far, this included research into existing ‘decorate your wellies’ services and Wellington customisation in general. Furthermore I annotated print screens and printout from environmentally friendly companies, ‘how can I recycle this?’ forum discussions, current services, Wedge Wellies, a case study: A Welly Good Idea and analysis of my PowerPoint slides.
Next I must research further into potential brands which would support my concept and product line.
Thursday, 29 October 2009
Further research
Searching the net for more information:
Today I stumbled across a blog entitled ‘a welly good idea’. It was all about a second-hand welly swap idea.
The concept came from a mother in Bury St Edmunds and involved a local boutique. The blog was linked to a poem about ‘the boots that walked on landfill’, the whole campaign was launched to support ‘recycle week’, this was something I decided I must look further into.
From this one ladies blog, I was directed to another via hyperlink. This was entitled ‘The Compost Bin’, and was about a recycle fanatic ‘compost woman’, who had innovative ideas for recycling just about everything. Both intrigued and fascinated, I became a follower of ‘Compost Woman’ and ‘The Compost Bin’.
I then looked at ‘the recycle works’, a site about loving ‘your environment’.
They were selling children’s funky welllies for £10, a reduced discount from £15. This included stickers and paint pens. The promotion was clearly focussed towards a younger audience, as the language used involved ‘groovy’ and ‘funky’, very youthful expressive phrases.
A further site, Fizzpotzz parties, offered advice for decorating your own wellies, as well as a kit. It said the initial pair of Wellingtons were ‘plain’, however it did not state what colour they were, I therefore made enquiries about this.
I further looked into discussion forums, and people who would were talking about customising their own boots, to ‘stand out from the crowd’; I therefore knew that there was a market for this.
There were further decorating kits, with tips and advice. I therefore knew which paint I had to purchase in order to make this look authentic in the photo studio environment.
It seems this trend was not only being aimed at 3+, yet an article by the Royal Horticultural Society revealed that gardeners were picking up on this trend too. Fishmongers were likewise ‘doing it in their wellies’.
With regards to the ‘Wear Your Wellies Day’, as previously mentioned above. I noticed that BluePeter launched a Shoebiz appeal, this is obviously very outdated yet it gave me comfort knowing that such events took place on such a day, giving me an idea for my product launch.
Pupils were to play £1 and get to wear their Wellington boots to school, the event raised money for other, less fortunate, children.
What next?
I must collate all of this research into sketchbook format, ready for analysis.
Today I stumbled across a blog entitled ‘a welly good idea’. It was all about a second-hand welly swap idea.
The concept came from a mother in Bury St Edmunds and involved a local boutique. The blog was linked to a poem about ‘the boots that walked on landfill’, the whole campaign was launched to support ‘recycle week’, this was something I decided I must look further into.
From this one ladies blog, I was directed to another via hyperlink. This was entitled ‘The Compost Bin’, and was about a recycle fanatic ‘compost woman’, who had innovative ideas for recycling just about everything. Both intrigued and fascinated, I became a follower of ‘Compost Woman’ and ‘The Compost Bin’.
I then looked at ‘the recycle works’, a site about loving ‘your environment’.
They were selling children’s funky welllies for £10, a reduced discount from £15. This included stickers and paint pens. The promotion was clearly focussed towards a younger audience, as the language used involved ‘groovy’ and ‘funky’, very youthful expressive phrases.
A further site, Fizzpotzz parties, offered advice for decorating your own wellies, as well as a kit. It said the initial pair of Wellingtons were ‘plain’, however it did not state what colour they were, I therefore made enquiries about this.
I further looked into discussion forums, and people who would were talking about customising their own boots, to ‘stand out from the crowd’; I therefore knew that there was a market for this.
There were further decorating kits, with tips and advice. I therefore knew which paint I had to purchase in order to make this look authentic in the photo studio environment.
It seems this trend was not only being aimed at 3+, yet an article by the Royal Horticultural Society revealed that gardeners were picking up on this trend too. Fishmongers were likewise ‘doing it in their wellies’.
With regards to the ‘Wear Your Wellies Day’, as previously mentioned above. I noticed that BluePeter launched a Shoebiz appeal, this is obviously very outdated yet it gave me comfort knowing that such events took place on such a day, giving me an idea for my product launch.
Pupils were to play £1 and get to wear their Wellington boots to school, the event raised money for other, less fortunate, children.
What next?
I must collate all of this research into sketchbook format, ready for analysis.
Furthering my knowledge into 'green' products
Aims:
I must gather more information regarding the customisation of the boot.
Referring back to an old article I had analysed in my sketchbook, I had discussed www.cutouts.net. I therefore decided to revisit this site.
Achievements:
I was intrigued to discover that the company had developed massively. It had a completely new identity, the website had a new format, but the underlying principle was the same. The new identity name was ‘revolve’.
I searched different sections of the website for inspiration, including: news the ‘greenie weenies’, which actually provided me with inspiration for promotion.
I also looked at the different ‘materials’ section. The ranged from Circuit boards, juice cartons, plastic bags, and general plastics.
I read the company mission, which I learnt was not to save the planet, but to make an environmental difference, which was very plausible, considering their campaign.
It was the ‘bespoke’ section of the site which particularly intrigued me. When considering press gifts and packs, personalisation was key to create impact. I therefore enquired to graham@revolve.co.uk, whether there was anything for me in this section, briefly outlining the project.
The site also provided links to other environmentally friendly campaigns, which I found very useful.
I then decided to look down another route, previous campaigns for decorating wellies. I was overjoyed to discover one from Children’s Hospice, South West, who provided hints and tips on how to decorate your wellies, for Wear Your Wellies Day. This particularly inspired me, as – up until this point – I was completely oblivious that such a thing as ‘wear your wellies day’ existed.
I must gather more information regarding the customisation of the boot.
Referring back to an old article I had analysed in my sketchbook, I had discussed www.cutouts.net. I therefore decided to revisit this site.
Achievements:
I was intrigued to discover that the company had developed massively. It had a completely new identity, the website had a new format, but the underlying principle was the same. The new identity name was ‘revolve’.
I searched different sections of the website for inspiration, including: news the ‘greenie weenies’, which actually provided me with inspiration for promotion.
I also looked at the different ‘materials’ section. The ranged from Circuit boards, juice cartons, plastic bags, and general plastics.
I read the company mission, which I learnt was not to save the planet, but to make an environmental difference, which was very plausible, considering their campaign.
It was the ‘bespoke’ section of the site which particularly intrigued me. When considering press gifts and packs, personalisation was key to create impact. I therefore enquired to graham@revolve.co.uk, whether there was anything for me in this section, briefly outlining the project.
The site also provided links to other environmentally friendly campaigns, which I found very useful.
I then decided to look down another route, previous campaigns for decorating wellies. I was overjoyed to discover one from Children’s Hospice, South West, who provided hints and tips on how to decorate your wellies, for Wear Your Wellies Day. This particularly inspired me, as – up until this point – I was completely oblivious that such a thing as ‘wear your wellies day’ existed.
Developing a concept based on my SWOT analysis
I felt that, as I had acknowledged a flaw in my product – the fact that if it is muddy you will not be able to write on the boots, I should not only look into developing a solution, but look to develop an alternative.
I therefore thought that, if the Wellingtons were designed with signatures etc BEFORE the event, this would eradicate the problem, however this defeats the whole object of getting festival friends to sign the boots.
I therefore began to look into projects and companies who do such things with Wellington boots, or who provide such a service, and thought of ways I could manipulate this to my advantage.
My aims yesterday were to gain a substantial number of articles / stories revolving around this theme.
Below I have documented my achievements:
I looked into a company called ‘Wedge Welly’. This is a family orientated company who design Wellington with a wedge, and aim the boot specifically at festival-goers.
They are constantly looking for new ideas, I therefore sent my proposal over to them for approval/disapproval.
I had a reply from Mike at the family, saying he would discuss it when the trio were reunited on Friday and get back to me, so fingers crossed he considers it has potential to be developed.
I became a ‘follower’ of this company of Blogspot, and also joined the Facebook group, to be kept up to date with any of the companies developments.
I then came across a discussion forum on a site about ‘How Can I Recycle This?’ One lady had put up a post about ‘how can I reuse of recycle … old wellies?’
She stated that Glastonbury Festival organiser Michael Eaves hates all of the wellies being ditched. I was unaware of this perspective, but it actually grounded my proposal even further, especially with regards to the festival endorsement.
I posted my proposal on the site, and read other peoples comment ideas and perspectives.
I then accidentally stumbled across an ‘information inspiration’ site, in which an article talked about Dunlop recycled Wellington boots. The boots are made from polyurethane, PVC and rubber. The latter is a natural resource, but the former is not. The PVC also has a range of issues associated with it.
Dunlop offer a service which I found interesting. They ‘take back’ old Wellingtons from customers who send them through the post, the boots are ground down and manufactured into new boots. Perhaps Dunlop is a brand I could take onboard…
I visited their website, however, and could find no further knowledge of this. I then read on a blog that this system was no longer in place.
What next?
I must continue to look into the same strategies employed above, working how to target them at my specific demographic.
I therefore thought that, if the Wellingtons were designed with signatures etc BEFORE the event, this would eradicate the problem, however this defeats the whole object of getting festival friends to sign the boots.
I therefore began to look into projects and companies who do such things with Wellington boots, or who provide such a service, and thought of ways I could manipulate this to my advantage.
My aims yesterday were to gain a substantial number of articles / stories revolving around this theme.
Below I have documented my achievements:
I looked into a company called ‘Wedge Welly’. This is a family orientated company who design Wellington with a wedge, and aim the boot specifically at festival-goers.
They are constantly looking for new ideas, I therefore sent my proposal over to them for approval/disapproval.
I had a reply from Mike at the family, saying he would discuss it when the trio were reunited on Friday and get back to me, so fingers crossed he considers it has potential to be developed.
I became a ‘follower’ of this company of Blogspot, and also joined the Facebook group, to be kept up to date with any of the companies developments.
I then came across a discussion forum on a site about ‘How Can I Recycle This?’ One lady had put up a post about ‘how can I reuse of recycle … old wellies?’
She stated that Glastonbury Festival organiser Michael Eaves hates all of the wellies being ditched. I was unaware of this perspective, but it actually grounded my proposal even further, especially with regards to the festival endorsement.
I posted my proposal on the site, and read other peoples comment ideas and perspectives.
I then accidentally stumbled across an ‘information inspiration’ site, in which an article talked about Dunlop recycled Wellington boots. The boots are made from polyurethane, PVC and rubber. The latter is a natural resource, but the former is not. The PVC also has a range of issues associated with it.
Dunlop offer a service which I found interesting. They ‘take back’ old Wellingtons from customers who send them through the post, the boots are ground down and manufactured into new boots. Perhaps Dunlop is a brand I could take onboard…
I visited their website, however, and could find no further knowledge of this. I then read on a blog that this system was no longer in place.
What next?
I must continue to look into the same strategies employed above, working how to target them at my specific demographic.
Wednesday, 28 October 2009
Presentation day
Achievements since my last update:
Since I last updated the blog, I have presented to my peers. The presentation was very well received and feedback was good, however Paz expressed concern over the choice Brand I was assigning the product to. I therefore considered other options. The one which initially came to mind was Topshop. This is because this brand really breaks the barriers with regards to introducing new product lines.
Another issue Paz raised was one surrounding the 20% discount. This was thought of as unnecessary, which I had previously discovered.
I must make further progress on my sketchbook today. I must do this by putting in all of my development work to date.
I have many developmental stages from the website which need printing. Also web conversations which need annotating and samples to be included.
I have a print out of my presentation, which I will annotate so I can see where I have used specific theories etc, and how effective these have been with regards to my forms of promotion.
I have also been conversing with Dick from Glastobury and am awaiting the glastonbury wrist band to arrive.
What next?
After I have got my progress up to date with regards to sketchbook development I must refer to the instructions for this project to see what must be submitted and how long I have to complete this.
Since I last updated the blog, I have presented to my peers. The presentation was very well received and feedback was good, however Paz expressed concern over the choice Brand I was assigning the product to. I therefore considered other options. The one which initially came to mind was Topshop. This is because this brand really breaks the barriers with regards to introducing new product lines.
Another issue Paz raised was one surrounding the 20% discount. This was thought of as unnecessary, which I had previously discovered.
I must make further progress on my sketchbook today. I must do this by putting in all of my development work to date.
I have many developmental stages from the website which need printing. Also web conversations which need annotating and samples to be included.
I have a print out of my presentation, which I will annotate so I can see where I have used specific theories etc, and how effective these have been with regards to my forms of promotion.
I have also been conversing with Dick from Glastobury and am awaiting the glastonbury wrist band to arrive.
What next?
After I have got my progress up to date with regards to sketchbook development I must refer to the instructions for this project to see what must be submitted and how long I have to complete this.
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