Being an artist, I’m influenced by so many things. It’s the combination of these things that keeps my head thinking of all sorts of creative ideas that I can use on a daily basis.
Every once in a while however, we all run into major “creative block” and feel stuck and we’re not able to create new insightful work. Whenever we run into these blocks, it’s always helpful to be reminded of what inspires us.
I came across an influence map online the other day and decided to make my own. Influence maps can be made out of anything—artist’s work, music, paintings, movies etc. I suggest that everyone try making one of these, in case the ol creative block rears its ugly head.
What other ways do you keep your creativity in your industry flowing?
Often in the creative world, we sell our “reaching-the-moon” design concepts to clients. More often than not however, budget permits us to only purchase a telescope. But it is our job as designers to find creative ways to meet and exceed our client’s vision, while working within any guidelines that come with the project.
Lee Morris with fstoppers took on the great task of producing a beautiful and professional photo shoot while limiting himself to only using an iPhone.
I think this video is proof that with a little creativity and hard work we can really stretch how far we can go with our everyday projects. Just because some budgets in the B2B market are not as large, that doesn’t mean we can’t find ways to still accomplish something great and unique.
What other ways do you save time and money without sacrificing the end result?
As a society we have reached a point where Google is needed on a daily basis. One of my favorite things about Google is its unique point of view on branding. Changing your visual identity multiple times a year is usually frowned upon, but with Google it’s expected.
I find myself looking forward to seeing the creative ways Google will make special occasions or dates even more special with its ingenious logos. Most recently, the Pac Man spin on the Google logo created quite a buzz.
What do you think about Google’s take on visual branding? Is there a way to incorporate this style of thinking into the B2B world? Please share your favorite Google logo with me.
Are you a big fan of all things design related? Are you a fan of Twitter? I stumbled upon this new Web site called Dribbble that takes the best from both worlds and combines them.
Instead of sharing your daily thoughts 140 characters at a time, Dribble gives you 400 x 300 pixels of space to share visual creativity. Another great feature is that, like Twitter, Dribbble allows you to “follow” your favorite designer, illustrator or developer and keep up with what they are working on.
As Twitter can be helpful to trend what’s happening in this great b2b world of ours, I believe that Dribble can also help us keep up with all things design related and keep things fresh!
Are there any other b2b resources you use to keep at the top of your game?
In design there is always a risk in deciding what imagery to use in your advertising. I stumbled upon this flickr page that poses the question, “what if we went in another direction?” The site showcases a wide range of “re-worked” movie posters from the past.Coming from an art background, it was like a breath of fresh air to see a more risky approach that still holds true to the content but that is presented in a new and fresh way. I feel that B2B advertising can gain from this theory as well. Instead of always sticking to what others do, why not push the envelope and do what no one else is doing? Get that creative edge and really stand out.
What do you think? Is breaking apart from the pack too risky? What other examples really stand out to you?
Coming from an art background, it was like a breath of fresh air to see a more risky approach that still holds true to the content but that is presented in a new and fresh way. I feel that B2B advertising can gain from this theory as well. Instead of always sticking to what others do, why not push the envelope and do what no one else is doing? Get that creative edge and really stand out.
