In celebration of the last posting for this course and consequently this blog for, er, ever? I have decided to do away with the theme! Sorry folks, that's it! The last batch was posted yesterday! If you can all manage to carry on through the tears of sadness, which I'm sure you all have right now, I'm going to start the actual post. Apparently there was four total reading reflections for this course...? I'm not sure though; I couldn't find that information on the blog site, I just happened to be reviewing grades through Carmen when I discovered a couple of 0's. Oh well I guess. Here is the last segment for that series though, and thankfully, the last assignment for Design 200!
Chapter 9: Contexts
Well, chapter nine begins by discussing where and how design can be found. The field is so broad and diverse that it can't be viewed like a typical professional trade (the book gave examples such as law and medicine). By this I mean, design means so many things, standardized rules and regulations just don't work very well for designers. Never the less, design does have its applications and conforms to some patterns. A prime example would be the business world. Here, there are many, many different ways to structure and organize design, but the applications are the same: a list of rules and criteria are established (guidelines for creativity, if you will) and from there, it is left up to the team of designers to work their magic. Some companies police the designers harder than others of course, but all designs serve one ultimate goal in this realm: to make the company a profit. Of course, business isn't the only field which employs designers. Government (and economies) reflect design as well, on a macro scale to be sure.
Chapter 10: Futures
Where is the field of design headed? The book includes two recurring patterns: variations upon what design means when applied, as well as the effect of technology. Take for example computer software. How many people are graphic designers, working on striking computer generated visuals or designing captivating web page displays? None of this would have been possible in the past without computers and their programs. Industrial systems and process involve complex machinery which need to be designed to work. Even the applied process of design changes with the future; instead of one person or a small team collaborating to do an entire project, tasks are now divided and separated. The chapter discusses in length the effect of the modern world countries upon the 'Third World' countries. Can design help these nations? Can it come up with ways to avoid exploiting cheap labor elsewhere? It seems the chapter focuses heavily on the possible applications of design in the future. Almost as if design has an obligation to create a better and more efficient tomorrow while protecting the very people it serves. And it seems to rely heavily on the technology which we can create today and in the future.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Thursday, May 26, 2011
"J10": The Long and Winding Road
A simple posting here; a course reflection in which the entire quarter is examined. More so, the assignments and overall instruction gets to be evaluated this time. And no worries Gabe, I felt like you did an excellent job! The course itself was really slow at first, and honestly, I thought pointless. I won't lie, I regretted taking it in the first couple of weeks. Some of the assignments just felt...childish. However, as we got going, there were some really cool assignments that I felt lived up to a 'design' course, such as the letterform seek and find. Basically, any assignment where we had to take pictures and argue why they worked. Those were alot of fun and I felt like it was a great teaching experience. And the final project at the end? Great idea. I felt like like the project was a great teaching experience because it taught the value of group work, presentation skills, and of course, design elements. Things I would change? Less 'frivoulous' assignments. For instance, why so many peer dialogues? And why do we need to reflect on EVERY course lecture day? Not all of them offered material which could be assessed and critiqued for a 'deeper meaning'. So if I were to change things, I would give a few less assignments on the blog and possibly make the big Assignments a little different. Some were just goofy and didn't feel adequate for a college level course. But overall, the way the course was structured was superb and Gabe, you made it a really awesome experience. I was glad I had you for an instructor.
"CR05": All Together Now
Yet another Beatles song; it is representative of the great job which everyone in the class did on this project. It was a tremendous success. This will probably be my shortest posting of them all. This reflection covers the last two days of the class, which were spent presenting the various products created by all of the groups. I say this will be the shortest because I don't have a clear memory of the particular products and their uses. But that doesn't mean they were not interesting or useful. For example, a couple I remember: there was a 'tent bed' which would provide an experience similar to camping for children in the home. And there was the solar curtain which took the suns energy and powered a wireless, remote electrical outlet box. The thing to take away from these two classes; all of the groups showed tremendous amounts of creativity and did an excellent job creating their product and presentations.
"J09": Paperback Writer
Paperback Writer, by the Beatles, is symbolic of all the documentation of this product; it's like publishing my own book in a way. And if you'll notice, I'm revisiting the Beatles again. It seems fitting to end the year's postings in the same way I began it. This journal's purpose was mainly to reflect upon the project as a whole. As a quick overview, I'll have links to my groups blog posted. I plan to discuss what our specific project was and then I intend to focus more on my own personal contribution to the groups success. As far as posting images, however, that I can't do because I did not come up with any of the drawings. That wasn't my personal area of expertise that I brought to the table.
First, I should thank my group. It was a pleasure working with you all and I wish you the best. The group included myself, of course, as well as Gered Bowman, Daniel Comai, and Bridget Mears. Their links are posted here in the respective order in which the names were presented:
http://design200classblog.blogspot.com/
http://dancsp11.blogspot.com/
http://bridgetmears.blogspot.com/
Now, let's discuss the project a little bit. What did we work on? Well, our attempt to place Coleman within the home took form in, essentially, two products. Or at the very least, two components to one product. We created a modified treadmill, which would focus heavily on the Coleman brand. That was our hardware; a treadmill which was light weight and easily collapsed/moved. Now, what made it unique was the combination of software, through which we enlisted the aid of Wii. We created an interactive game which would work in conjunction with the treadmill and simulated a hiking/camping experience for the user. As for how we worked as a group, things went very smoothly. There was no arguments and everyone got along very well. We didn't have an assigned leader; each of us took charge when needed and for the most part made group decisions on the direction of our project with everyone having an equal say. I felt like everyone presented a valuable work towards our project on both a personal and group based level.
Looking now at personal work contributed, I was largely an idea guy. I critiqued most ideas, as well as presented as many as I could come up with. From there, you could probably consider me the group's marketer or business representative. I tried to manage our time in order to get the project done by the due date. My handiwork is most apparent upon the power point; I combined all of the awesome visuals, courtesy of my fellow group members, and added comments to make it coherently presentable. Lastly, I made sure to learn all I could about our personal product so I could field as many questions. So all things considered, I feel we did a great job on our project. If there is anything I wish I could have done extra, I wish I knew more about the various programs used in design so I could have done some mock ups for the group.
And as I mentioned in the overview, I didn't have any sketches or drawings to provide as evidence. All I have is the finished product, since I put it together in a power point. While I can't post that here, I have it saved in my personal records and shall definitely remember it in the future.
First, I should thank my group. It was a pleasure working with you all and I wish you the best. The group included myself, of course, as well as Gered Bowman, Daniel Comai, and Bridget Mears. Their links are posted here in the respective order in which the names were presented:
http://design200classblog.blogspot.com/
http://dancsp11.blogspot.com/
http://bridgetmears.blogspot.com/
Now, let's discuss the project a little bit. What did we work on? Well, our attempt to place Coleman within the home took form in, essentially, two products. Or at the very least, two components to one product. We created a modified treadmill, which would focus heavily on the Coleman brand. That was our hardware; a treadmill which was light weight and easily collapsed/moved. Now, what made it unique was the combination of software, through which we enlisted the aid of Wii. We created an interactive game which would work in conjunction with the treadmill and simulated a hiking/camping experience for the user. As for how we worked as a group, things went very smoothly. There was no arguments and everyone got along very well. We didn't have an assigned leader; each of us took charge when needed and for the most part made group decisions on the direction of our project with everyone having an equal say. I felt like everyone presented a valuable work towards our project on both a personal and group based level.
Looking now at personal work contributed, I was largely an idea guy. I critiqued most ideas, as well as presented as many as I could come up with. From there, you could probably consider me the group's marketer or business representative. I tried to manage our time in order to get the project done by the due date. My handiwork is most apparent upon the power point; I combined all of the awesome visuals, courtesy of my fellow group members, and added comments to make it coherently presentable. Lastly, I made sure to learn all I could about our personal product so I could field as many questions. So all things considered, I feel we did a great job on our project. If there is anything I wish I could have done extra, I wish I knew more about the various programs used in design so I could have done some mock ups for the group.
And as I mentioned in the overview, I didn't have any sketches or drawings to provide as evidence. All I have is the finished product, since I put it together in a power point. While I can't post that here, I have it saved in my personal records and shall definitely remember it in the future.
"CR04": New Design
To be honest, I was surprised I found a song title in my music library which it so well. It's by Thousand Foot Krutch, which is a blend between rock and pop. As has been the case for awhile now, the course reflections take a bit of a different turn. No longer are the classes limited to 'slideshows'. In fact, for this particular set of courses, it wasn't really information based at all. It was spent doing group work for the Coleman project. And since all of the days relate to that, this posting will be pretty short since I have a couple more which relate to this project.
Day 13: Ah, the project was officially assigned and begun. We spent most of the first day, as a group, ascertaining who Coleman was in our eyes. From there, we started carving out core values which were important to Coleman and which we could utilize in a new product. Finally, we started brainstorming potential goods.
Day 14 - 16: At this point, things become sort of a blur. I can't distinguish between the next few days, so here is the gist of what happened. We met and decided upon a product which dealt with physical fitness. It took many forms at first, but finally, we decided upon a treadmill. From here, we started discussing the many forms and shapes it could take. We spent along time trying to come up with specifics on size, weight, what it would do differently, etc. Finally, I had the idea that it should be linked to a tv. After all, most people now a days watch tv as they exercise with treadmills, ellipticals, etc. So why not add another component to that? Seemed like the next logical step. Anyways, from there, some of the group members started sketching up our product. We then started developing the software component. By now, we were on our last day. We spent that working on our packaging. We were trying to come up with the best way to ship it and handle it. Like other groups, we wanted to try to create a green campaign or take advantage of a sleek new design for the package. In the end, it didn't happen. At the end of that last class, we divided work and tossed out some rough ideas for some a kiosk. And that pretty much covers these four days of class.
Day 13: Ah, the project was officially assigned and begun. We spent most of the first day, as a group, ascertaining who Coleman was in our eyes. From there, we started carving out core values which were important to Coleman and which we could utilize in a new product. Finally, we started brainstorming potential goods.
Day 14 - 16: At this point, things become sort of a blur. I can't distinguish between the next few days, so here is the gist of what happened. We met and decided upon a product which dealt with physical fitness. It took many forms at first, but finally, we decided upon a treadmill. From here, we started discussing the many forms and shapes it could take. We spent along time trying to come up with specifics on size, weight, what it would do differently, etc. Finally, I had the idea that it should be linked to a tv. After all, most people now a days watch tv as they exercise with treadmills, ellipticals, etc. So why not add another component to that? Seemed like the next logical step. Anyways, from there, some of the group members started sketching up our product. We then started developing the software component. By now, we were on our last day. We spent that working on our packaging. We were trying to come up with the best way to ship it and handle it. Like other groups, we wanted to try to create a green campaign or take advantage of a sleek new design for the package. In the end, it didn't happen. At the end of that last class, we divided work and tossed out some rough ideas for some a kiosk. And that pretty much covers these four days of class.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
"J08:" Survivalism
Survivalism, done by Nine Inch Nails, is a rather interesting song. If I'm not mistaken, the 'group' is just one man and he has made alot of electronic noise to fill in for the various instruments. Not my favorite song by him, but he does have a couple that are awesome. So I chose to explore the design field in relation to accessibility a bit more in depth. I suppose the obvious question now is ‘why’? Hm, well, perhaps because I intend to live to see a ripe old age and realize my body plans to give out before my spirit does? Or perhaps I’m interested in extreme, dangerous sports and hope to garner a few broken limbs? It’s really as simple as that; sooner or later, everyone’s body will fail them in some way. And through design, maybe we can accommodate everyone; not just those who are physically/mentally fit. Now, the links I will provide will focus primarily on examples of cool and innovative features or products which cater to people who are handicapped in some way.
1) Handicap symbol
Perhaps the most generic idea of the field, the handicap symbol has become universally accepted and understood. For the United States, at least, it is readily apparent there are specific locations and facilities made for handicapped people to use. So specific, in fact, it is often illegal for those without the special symbol or pass to use said areas. Someone had to design the sign, of course, which is why it applies so readily to this assignment. But how long has it been around? I think it might be time to change the symbol. Add a modern design twist, or maybe change the color scheme. Anyways, this sight just gives an overview to the symbol and I would like to see some different design takes upon it.
2) Handicap ramps
There is a need for ramps in all buildings now. Due to the semi – recent legislation, all buildings need to be upgraded to fit code to allow for access to all people. Essentially, this will show a few examples of the use and benefits the ramps have, as well as offer some insight behind the construction of them. Why is it important? Well, ramps are a good alternative to stairs; they take up more room but are a smooth and easy option. But they tend to all look the same. Perhaps the field of design could put a new spin on them?
3) The wheelchair accessible motorcycle
So, the idea here is fairly simple, yet fairly new. Attach a side car, or better yet, a modified chassis, to a motorcycle which allows a wheelchair to roll into. By placing a protective ‘cage’ frame on the motorcycle, a person can literally roll their wheelchair up a ramp and sit on the bike without ever leaving their chair. With specialized locking mechanisms, the chair will remained anchored. Also, a gear shift has been installed to allow for easy forward/reverse movement. From that point, it is no different than driving a regular motorcycle. It is nice to see the lack of mobility won’t prevent the proverbial feeling of ‘wind in their hair’.
4) Modern prosthetic arms
Based for wounded military veterans, modern prosthetics are becoming quite advanced. Not only do they ‘fill’ a missing limb, but with the modern medical applications, they can actually interact with nerve endings around the missing limb. And the result is the ability to use the limb as if it was the original. They are still researching ways to make it send a feedback, allowing the user to ‘feel’ how more force they are exerting. It has all sorts of useful applications, and seems to be a prototype for a real plausible solution in the near future. I’m excited to see what the future holds in this area.
5) Lasik eye surgery
The number of people who have diminished to no eye sight is on the rise. Majority of the populace, in fact, is actually plagued by it. And while the idea of ‘near sightedness’ or ‘far sightedness’ might not rank as highly in terms of a disability, but I imagine anyone out there who has to wear glasses or contacts can greatly appreciate the aid given to help them see clearly again. As for this posting, it gives some insight on the modern practice of laser correction. Now, it does away with eye wear. And no longer do people have to have their eyes ‘cut’ on to correct their vision. Modern surgery involves less recover time and is nearly pain free. Not a bad deal in order to regain full eyesight once again!
Saturday, May 14, 2011
"J07:" Voices
Voices is done by Disturbed. I would have to double check, but I want to say this is the 'hardest' rock band I have chosen yet. They are a metal band, and frankly, I would be surprised if anyone in class has not heard of them before. Personally, I'm a fan; my two favorite sub genres are classic rock and hard rock. The connection is the idea that a peer dialogue is based on communication, which can take the form of speech, and thus requires a voice. But more importantly to me for today...yet another peer dialogue down! Today we will be exploring the postings of Dan and Bridget yet again and giving the highlights of their blog.
I'm going to begin with Dan's blog this time. I enjoyed his version of a letter form assignment, based on the things he found. It was funny, because we had identical pictures for a couple of the letters. The letter i was identical and the letter j was the same concept with the clothes hanger. Other than that, the toilet seat was sweet because I had never considered it. Yet, how many times does a person use it? Nice observation. As far as his course reflection content goes, it had some good points. I agree that Dan got some good tips from the various groups that visited us. And I also agree that it was important to see designers becoming business men, and not just another 'worker'. I also wish those guys luck; it has to be hard right out of college, holding a couple of jobs down, trying to get their name out there.
And let us not forget about Bridget! I believe her blog might be a bit behind, so I'll comment on the couple of posts which are most recent. I don't believe I commented on those last time. So I'll start with her found faces. The couple that she took of her own were really cool. The first picture was probably my favorite, though I'm not really sure why. Maybe it was just a really cool angle/item? But I saw it as a goofy looking face all the same. And of course, the plate with the bacon and eggs. It has been done time and time again, yet always is a classic looking 'face'. I bet it was a lot of fun to play around with. The next post was when we hunted down the designer based clues for a scavenger hunt. She provided a lot of specific information on all of the pictures and places we visited. And of course, her own personal twist on the goofy pictures. I think it is safe to say that we all had some fun posing for those pictures. Oh, and I got a kick out of the fact that she had forgotten the name of her magazine too. All I can remember is that I picked one done in Spanish as a joke, since I can't read Spanish.
I'm going to begin with Dan's blog this time. I enjoyed his version of a letter form assignment, based on the things he found. It was funny, because we had identical pictures for a couple of the letters. The letter i was identical and the letter j was the same concept with the clothes hanger. Other than that, the toilet seat was sweet because I had never considered it. Yet, how many times does a person use it? Nice observation. As far as his course reflection content goes, it had some good points. I agree that Dan got some good tips from the various groups that visited us. And I also agree that it was important to see designers becoming business men, and not just another 'worker'. I also wish those guys luck; it has to be hard right out of college, holding a couple of jobs down, trying to get their name out there.
And let us not forget about Bridget! I believe her blog might be a bit behind, so I'll comment on the couple of posts which are most recent. I don't believe I commented on those last time. So I'll start with her found faces. The couple that she took of her own were really cool. The first picture was probably my favorite, though I'm not really sure why. Maybe it was just a really cool angle/item? But I saw it as a goofy looking face all the same. And of course, the plate with the bacon and eggs. It has been done time and time again, yet always is a classic looking 'face'. I bet it was a lot of fun to play around with. The next post was when we hunted down the designer based clues for a scavenger hunt. She provided a lot of specific information on all of the pictures and places we visited. And of course, her own personal twist on the goofy pictures. I think it is safe to say that we all had some fun posing for those pictures. Oh, and I got a kick out of the fact that she had forgotten the name of her magazine too. All I can remember is that I picked one done in Spanish as a joke, since I can't read Spanish.
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