In my last module I set myself a target for this module to use Illustrator within my project. I used illustrator within my Alternative Techniques module, but not enough to feel more confident with the program. Therefore it's necessary to continue to grow my skills and continue using the program as much as possible. Editorial Design does not really require this use, so I will need to find some way of integrating it. Below I have created a SWOT analysis to evaluate my progress so far, and where I would like to be following this module.
Strengths
I believe InDesign is a strength as I feel confident when working on the program. I also believe my idea generation has become a strength due to my sketchbook work at the beginning of the year, and therefore I feel my project will be stronger when compared to last year’s Editorial creation.
Weaknesses
Again, I want to use illustrator and expand my skill set on the program whilst I still have the opportunity for help through experts, such as my tutors. I believe Illustrator is still a weakness of mine. Researching and creating my own body copy is something I have found difficult in the past, but I would like to create something quite interesting and therefore my research is an important step.
Opportunities
The brief has been set to be quite open, allowing me to choose my own creative directions alongside the subject matter and content. I feel this is the opportunity to experiment with something I wouldn’t usually, such as creating posters or cards. The brief allows me to deviate from what I usually perceive to be “editorial design” such as a brochure or magazine spread, and is reliant solely on the use of a grid system and layout.
Threats
Computer malfunction will be a threat so it is important to back my work up regularly. Time management and organisation is a threat to this module as it includes research, idea generation, collating body copy and the creation of the final outcome so it is necessary to create a plan to follow. As this will be created using InDesign, saving the files correctly is essential. Packaging files will mean the threat of losing and misplacing images will be reduced.