erinnorgarb

[erinnorgarb]

My Dribbble account is where I upload most of my works (the ones that are lucky enough to get finished and finally posted!) 

[erinnorgarb]

Reflection 6: Start With Why - Simon Sinek.

I enjoyed reading about the way Sinek so passionately talks about the Golden Ratio and Golden Circle and how even Mother Nature’s beauty has order to it. The meaning behind the Golden Circle is a particularly relevant theory to remember in the 21’st century when competition is strife and there is such a lack of authentic and original design out there. Albeit that Sinek uses Apple as an example, they’re still obviously contributing to an insane amount of consumerism. However, their marketing and design tactics are something we could all learn form as the principles are a good way to remind oneself of why we do what we do in all aspects of our life. In order to do this one must start with: WHY, WHAT & HOW. 

Remembering to start from the inside out. If we truly focus on why we’re doing something and how it’s impacting us, we will become much more thoughtful with how we give away our time. Not to mention we will do things passionately and whole-heartedly if we do things that have a purpose to us. 

[erinnorgarb]

A little frame by frame animation I made of a dog running. (Music by Alice Phoebe Lou). 

[erinnorgarb]

TASK 6: WHY? (Building Your Own Business)

Thinking about my distant future and daydreaming is something I tend to do quite often, albeit that it scares the sh*t out of me, I still rather enjoy dreaming! However, my career which was once a rather distant dream is now becoming more real than ever, so it’s time to start taking it a little more seriously than a casual daydream/nightmare.

I would like to say, that as a ‘designer’ (of sorts) I’m someone who has more than just an appreciation for a good font and an aesthetic chair (albeit that those two shouldn’t be overlooked!). I believe that as a designer of any shape, size and form we all have a fundamental responsibility in this day and age, more so than ever, to create work that gives back to the planet and its people in some way. Whether that’s creating sustainable solutions for packaging, or materials that are ethically sourced, or creating advertisements that steer away from mindless consumption…it’s about using our creativity mindfully where we can. My dream in life isn’t extravagant, it’s quite simply to have my own dog/s (plural is more likely) and own a coffee/surf shop with my future (lol) partner. Or more realistically, I would love to run my own design team that tackles projects for local companies. Thus, what I put out there on my various social media platforms I take into consideration, as it contributes to your personal brand, which one day, I will hopefully turn into a career of sorts. Eeek!

[erinnorgarb]

REFLECTION 5: Talent Is Not Enough: Business Secrets for Designers by Shel Perkins

Independent Contractor Agreement summarised to its core:

1 Services

When entering a company as a designer of sorts, you will sign a document stipulating the t’s & c’s of the company and what they expect from you (your services) in return for their payment and your working hours. However, you need to agree to this before signing as well as both parties needing to have written proof of the said agreement for future reference.

2 Compensation

First things first; money. The company you work for will stipulate how much they will be paying you in their contract as well as when they will be paying you for your services. Above your salary, the company should reimburse you for any work related costs spent on the work itself (petrol, living expenses, health etc). However, the tools you buy for the project will therefore be owned by the firm as they are reimbursing you in the end.

3 Intellectual Property Ownership

When signing the contract, you ultimately sign away ‘your’ work. As whatever you do for the company will technically be owned by them, allowing them to make changes in the future to your work if they wish to do so, as well as them owning the rights to this work. They will need your permission when signing documentation for trademarks, copyrights etc - this happens once they have paid you in full which grants them ownership of the work.

4 Originality and Non-infringement

All of your work as a designer or artist that enters the public realm should be original and authentic. If your work is said to be that of ‘copyright infringement’ you are in sh*t street because the original owner of whomever work you’ve copied can sue you, as well as you putting your company at risk, albeit you pledge to the company that the work is yours and they will remain out of trouble - as well as the company also having to sign that their side of the story is legit and won’t get you into trouble either. So be original and don’t try and scam people because ti can put you and your company at risk.

5 Confidentiality

When starting at a company you will most likely have to sign an NDA which means that anything you learn or work upon that isn’t already public knowledge is to remain within the business and not shared with your bellies or other competitors. Whatever information is theirs you are not allowed to share, even once the contract is over.

6 Conflicting obligations

This agreement is to ensure that you aren’t doing work for other company/companies on the side as some business won’t even allow you to freelance or display the work you are doing for them to the public without their permission first as they somewhat ‘own’ you to a degree. Read this fine print carefully!

7 Term and termination

This begins the day the designer starts their work right up until their contract is said to finish. However, this can be terminated with 10 days notice from either party, but if the company ends things without the designer breaking any of the ‘rules’ then the company must pay them for what they have done/spent up until that point.

8 Assignment

One cannot outhouse their work from a 3rd party unless the company has given you permission (in writing) to do so - else the contract can be considered void.

9 Independent contractor

Unfortunately as a consultant you get little to no employee benefits and thus when you sign this contract you are stating that you are responsible for paying all your own taxes and that it will all be legal.

10 Equitable Relief

If you violate/infringe upon the contract the company can sue you. “A breach of contract occurs when one party to the agreement fails to fulfil an obligation or breaks the 'Terms and Conditions' as set out in that agreement.”

11 Miscellaneous

Any changes made to a contract by either party must then notify the other party in order to make an agreement surrounding them. If one party fails to meet their obligations due to unforeseen circumstances out of their control then they wont held accountable. And lastly, anyone who takes over your contract remains bound to its t’s and c’s as well.

All in all, read the fine print carefully and get someone (who knows their stuff) to go over any contracts with you before you sign your soul away. And that’s all for today folks!

[erinnorgarb]

TASK 5: TO FREELANCE OR NOT TO FREELANCE?

My initial thoughts on freelancing were largely positive, as the idea of working from home and being surrounded by less people seemed rather pleasant if you ask me, However, this sort of luxury does come at some form of ‘cost’. But firstly, I would assume that some of the pros of freelancing would include:

Pros:

-Being able to work from anywhere that has wifi essentially.

-Dictating your own schedule and work hours/preferences.

-Being your own boss.

-Keeping all the savings/profit that you make.

-Interesting and unique job opportunities.

-Having the last say when it comes with who to work with/for.

The Cons:

-The earnest is on you to manage your time and priorities.

-You take full responsibility for just about everything that happens.

-It can get lonely.

-Finding work can be hard and scarce.

-Dealing with clients directly can be intimidating (as opposed to having a company who can sort minority of that admin out).

-Lack of stimulation.

What would you need to have in place in order to become independent?

-Good time management.

-Ethical design practices.

-Good wifi lol.

-A comfortable and productive work environment.

-A strong support system where you can share your ideas, get feedback and stay motivated / inspired.

-An organised and structured schedule or daily planner.

-A good accounting system and structure to deal with the admin and monetary side of things.

How would this way of working relate to your personality and lifestyle?

I would say this particular lifestyle would suit  me to a degree, as I am quite socially anxious and prefer being in my own space. However, with this being said, I do feel as though perhaps its better for me to step out of my comfort zone and work in a new environment I wouldn’t usually picture myself in. I think it’s the initial stages that are the most daunting, after you’ve settled into your new work environment and made some friends (hopefully) then things will cool down. It’s nice to be able to get feedback and input from those around you in the environment, as well as keeping yourself motivated in a more formal setting (as opposed to your bedroom or workspace). I think I would also enjoy making connections locally and with other freelance designers which could have the potential to blossom into some new and exciting projects too.

Why would you freelance?

I would consider freelancing, as the flexibility is the most appealing part to me. One would be able to do some travelling abroad while simultaneously working too, as one becomes a ‘digital nomad’. To a degree, I might find it less stressful as you are your own boss and don’t have to follow someone else’s way of thinking or working. However, this could also be seen as the challenging/stressful part too. Not spending money and time on commuting is also appealing.

Why not?

I feel as though I would constantly be stressed about where my next commission or payment will come from. Thus always worrying about meeting financial deadlines etc. I would need to be very good at budgeting too if I decided to go this route. I feel as though I wouldn’t be motivated or pushed enough if it was solely me driving the process. I enjoy waking up and having a routine in the morning of going to work etc. It makes you feel (and hopefully one is) accomplishing something rad.

When would you work as an independent practitioner?

Once I’ve gained enough work experience to understand the ins and outs of the industry and when I have a strong portfolio to attract clients.

When not?

Once I’ve just gotten out of college as I feel as though it would be at least necessary to intern for a bit beforehand to gain some insight and make some connections.

[erinnorgarb]

A quote by Ram Dass that I really liked & ended up illustrating. 

[erinnorgarb]

ASSIGNMENT 4:  JOB HUNTING

Junior graphic designer and Takealot for Mr D Food

What about this position appeals to you?

-The position doesn’t sound too intimidating in terms of it being for a junior designer (which applies to me as a graduate) which is a good place to build experience, as well as Takealot being a big reputable company, so hopefully their work ethic will follow suit too. Albeit that graphic design is a rather open ended term, it would hold space for me to improve my software skills too. 

What about this positions intimidates you?

-The fact that they also are a large brand so the stakes are high if you mess up. It may be quite conservative to a degree and overwhelming. 

What more would you need to know about this position before you apply?

-The pay, the work hours, the location, what exactly do they expect on a day to day basis?

How does this position relate to your envisioned career trajectory?

-Albeit that it’s graphic design and not UI/UX design, the experience gained in the work place and the years one can add to their resume definitely help. A job within the design realm is what I would be thankful for as a first job to kickstart ones experience into a more niche position.

2. UX Designer For Takealot

What about this position appeals to you?

-The fact that it coincides with where I’m wanting to head in the future of being a UI/UX designer. Thus the job will give me important feedback and insight into the industry. Takealot has a pretty decent reputation and name for themselves, thus it would be a good opportunity to be able to work for them (provided they have a comfortable work environment).

What about this position intimidates you?

-That they are usually looking for someone with a few years experience & who knows what they’re doing. And as a graduate it’s hard to get experience without being experienced (in a sense) - a catch 22 at it’s finest.

What more would you need to know about this position before you apply?

-Location, pay, the time period/frame.

How does this position relate to your envisioned career trajectory?

-Being an UI designer would preferably be where I would like to head towards in the distant future. Thus, the job would aid me in the sense that it would give me valuable insight and expense of the UI/UX industry which I find quite intimidating.

3. Junior Designer at Digitas Liqourice

What about this position appeals to you?

-I would be able to broaden my software skills in digital design which would ultimately help me with any of my freelance work (provided I am allowed to freelance on the side). Would be able to gain work experience and time in the industry. Will improve my team working/people skills. Web design is my preferred option as opposed to the UX side of things (albeit that they go hand-in-hand with each other).

What about this positions intimidates you?

-The fact that they are a very team oriented company which intimidates me as I would prefer to work remotely. I would be worried that my software skills aren’t strong enough, as it can take years for one to become proficient in a particular software. However, one would learn as they go too.

What more would you need to know about this position before you apply?

-The work times (flexi hours etc), location, the pay, software licenses etc.

How does this position relate to your envisioned career trajectory?

-Web design is something that interests me a lot, as I feel as though it combines both ones eye for graphic design, illustration etc with the more practical side of things. Would benefit my career in terms of UI design. Would also give me the opportunity to incorporate my illustrative work and perhaps some motion work too.

[erinnorgarb]

REFLECTION 4:  ‘Build A Network Even If You Think You Don’t Need One’ - By Dorie Clark

Albeit that the thought of networking makes my introverted soul ache a little, it is important to realise how this could potentially affect ones connections and opportunities if we’re unwilling to put ourselves out there. Networking doesn’t happen overnight, or solely at intimidating conferences. It’s also about having a mindset that is open to connecting with people whom you would/could potentially benefit from. Take note of the people you meet and always make a concerted effort to remember their names and story, because you never know when you may need them, or if they may need you - also, it’s just polite to do so. Living in the creative hub that is Cape Town, I feel as though I need to make more of an effort to get out of my comfort zone and go mingle with creatives. Whether this means making more of an effort to talk to strangers when in social setting or attending more conferences, if one doesn’t do it, they’ll never know. Chances that I will regret doing it are probably slim too. This doesn’t solely have to be a physical task, but also remembering to frequently check what design related events are happening, chat to friends and join groups in order to stay updated and seek out future opportunities. Meeting interesting people and making friends should be something we would want to do, however I think the term ‘networking’ has turned some creative introverts off a little. Personally, I think one has to find a way they feel would best suit them in order to connect and build meaningful friendships and networks through.

[erinnorgarb]

ASSIGNMENT 3: INTERNSHIP PLAN

After much research and careful consideration I narrowed my interning options down to the company IO web design, Make Reign, Long beard and Iso Flow. However, I am waiting to hear back from a few of the companies and thus I have chosen a few in case some fall through. I would like to do an internship at 2 of the above places (perhaps something else may come up and change during the time duration) with a minimum of a month at each company in order to get a proper feel for what they do. In the future, I would ideally like to freelance from home, but I feel as though one needs to at least build experience (and money) by entering the industry to gain a sufficient amount of knowledge beforehand. And who knows, one may very well enjoy working for a company, as opposed to freelancing.

College holidays:

April 6-19th

June 20-5 (Do a job shadow somewhere during this time)

Aug 29-13 (Another potential job shadow slot)

Nov 28-feb (Internship 1 & 2)

My top 2 places would be IO Digital, as someone I used to know works there reached out to me and asked if I wanted to intern with them, thus I feel like the personal connection is something to use as an opportunity. Not only do I want to go there for the connection, but their team of multi and interdisciplinary designers appeals to me, as the agency isn’t specific to one form of design. This appeals to me as I won’t solely be focusing on one aspect of design such as UI) which means I would be able to gain a feel for illustration, motion, UX/UI etc. I am also uncertain as to which industry I want to go into at this point, because I really enjoy illustration as well as motion too. Lastly, I feel like interning at MakeReign would be super awesome as their creative team and space in general seems innovative and inviting. They’re also a digital multi disciplinary agency in Cape Town. I would really like to intern one of their UI designers who illustrates as well. As illustration is something I really enjoy incorporating with UI design.

In order to prepare for these internships or short ‘job shadows’ I would need to research the various companies well and make sure I understand what they strive to do & gain a sense of what their overall vibe is like, i.e formal, casual etc. As well as look at who their main clients are, perhaps they have a specific target / niche market etc. It’s also important to make sure you know what software the company will be using in order to know if you’re fluent in it or not.

[erinnorgarb]

REFLECTION 3: How To Be a Graphic Designer Without Losing Your Soul -By Shaughnessy

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS 

Three essential traits designers need in order to stay somewhat sane, according to Shaughnessy are: cultural awareness, communication skills and integrity. These can be considered soft skills which are just as important, nowadays, as technical skills. Because no one wants to work with someone who isn’t a lekker human. However, as Shaunghnessy puts it, we only expand on our capabilities by doing, thus one learns the most by physically doing practical things. So some important skills that may help us with being both an organised, professional designer and a cool human, can be developed by following these traits: ie. the non-designing part of being a designer. It’s particularly helpful to consider these skills as a creative in order to stay structured and organised when you’re head is flowing with creative juices.

-Time Management: don’t let anxiety get in the way of this

-Research: research that leads to a design outcome

-Strategy: combining research with market or audience experience. Combining technical developments which current patterns of behaviour.

-Presentation Skills: basically fake it till you make it

-Writing Skills: practice as often as you can & READ READ READ!

-Professional Skills: A few words can go a long way, so remember their importance and power (when contacting people and communicating).

[erinnorgarb]

Assignment 2: A Practice of Openness

After careful consideration, my ‘practice of openness’ that I am currently experimenting with, is a ritual or even a mindset consisting of multiple things. I would like to implement said ‘ritual’ as often as I can, in order to help myself grow as an individual, working on both my social and software skills haha. In this ritual I’ve looked at implementing tasks, challenges and mantras that consist of:

-Attending various conferences/talks/meet-ups that interest me as often as possible. This will slowly help me grapple with my social anxiety as well as introducing me to potential connections. & obviously helping my brain grow and gain knowledge of all the delicious things this world has to offer!

-Creating at least one form of design from a tutorial every weekend. I am currently teaching myself C4D because its rad, but with that being said it will require a lot of effort and practice, thus whenever I get the chance, I will try and further develop my skills in this software or anything that I enjoy for fun & can include in my portfolio!

-Simply getting together and working with friends to discuss any new people, platforms, spaces or opportunities we have come across that we feel could benefit one another. Just by working with one another it helps in the sense that you can gain other peoples perspectives and help. This could also be in the form of an online platform.

In order for myself to stay committed to this practice, I think keeping track of what I learn, join or create in a physical diary, journal or platform would be a good way to remind oneself of the benefits and progress. As well as creating a Whatsapp group or emailing system with friends to keep each other motivated and included.

I’m very excited to see where this practice takes me, despite all the awkward interactions that may follow suit, hehe! Trying to remember that stepping out of ones comfort zone, ie my bedroom, is when all the great things start happening!  

[erinnorgarb]

REFLECTION 2:  OVERTHROWING THE TYRANNY OF THE IDEAL BY ISAAC LIDSKY / QUIET REVOLUTION 

‘Becoming Your Own Strongwomxn’

Isaac’s article on overthrowing and overcoming ones innermost critic was certainly insightful during particular time. As a third year, I think it is safe to say we are all rather stressed and this is when our inner critics are very loud and rather overwhelming. This is when it’s important for us to remember that striving for perfection is a thing of the past and will usually leave you feeling disappointed. Striving to grow, learn and adapt is much better and more realistic. Our critics give us unsolicited advice, whereas our ‘strongwomxan’ or whomever you choose to call it, provide us with motivation, courage and a sense of adventure. The ‘strongwoxman’ should keep you rooted in the moment and not let yourself get too overwhelmed by scary idea of the future. In summary, remember that your inner strong beast of choice should:

-Lead by example and teaches by sharing her experiences.

-They volunteer their unsolicited opinions and advice.

-They savour the first step.

-They are rooted to the ground. Their reality is the moment

-The ‘best’ is a fallacy for the inner strong womxn

[erinnorgarb]

‘Interrupt Anxiety with Gratitude’ visual. 8-) 

[erinnorgarb]

Personal Goal Setting

Confidence.

I decided to choose the attribute of confidence, the act of being certain in ones abilities and believing in ones strength. This can be applied in various areas, such as having confidence in ones work, personality, ability to do a specific task etc. This is something I struggle with daily as being someone who has social anxiety, I tend to come across as less confident as opposed to someone who’s extroverted and social. However, this shouldn’t always be the case, as often those who are introverted just simply may not feel the need to talk or display their work (in this particular instance), albeit that they are proud of it! I do feel as though my anxiety hinders me from connecting with and exploring new opportunities, as the thought of professional, skilled people scares me off; despite the fact that I may feel confident about my work. I’m currently reading Quiet Power - Growing Up as an Introvert in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain which has been very interesting. Cain analyses the way society has made quiet people feel meek and unappreciated and how introverts can reclaim their power in their own way. Wunderbar!

This year I look forward to putting my most confident foot forward and taking whatever comes my way with pride, even if it may not be what’s expected!

[erinnorgarb]

REFLECTION 1: MAXIMISE YOUR POTENTIAL BY J.K GLEI

‘The Age of Flux’ 

Glei’s analysis on the age of flux and it’s impact on us as a society as well as on an individual level, I found rather fascinating! It’s almost refreshing to hear that one is living in an age of constant adaptation and evolution, thus one can find various routes and systems that work best for us personally, as we are no longer confined to concrete job titles and monotony anymore, sorry Mom! As creatives, being in an age of flux is very exciting yet daunting at the same time. Technologies are constantly evolving and so are the people using them. Glei’s advice for this dilemma is insightful as we realise our talents are multi-faceted and need constant care and dedication in order to prevent stagnation, hence the best skill one can have in this day and age is “the ability and desire to constantly learn and adapt to all the new skills that are being created around us as we speak.” It’s important to remember that there is no single model that is going to work for everyone and anyone, we’re cooler than that. We’re all complex individuals and thus finding ones best suited niche is going to be a wonky journey with many great insights along the way. It’s comforting to know there are always people out there willing to help you succeed (whether its learning a new technology, finding the toilets at your new job or simply giving you some advice: people generally want to help). Two things I’ve found most important are: remain hungry for knowledge and take advantage of opportunities that come your way, because you never know where they might take you. And lastly, disrupt the status quo!

[erinnorgarb]

Quote and Invoice :)