Inspiration for my portfolio re-design

Fuel Brand

Although not the best for immediate UI, this site draws attention through its initial sparsity. The way it spans the entire screen gives it quite a strong presence and I like the use of quite basic hues.

The site could be criticised for not being formed in a more typical website way - a positive or a negative?

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Rareview

I really like this site for a number of reasons.

#1 being the glossy box that holds the key text. This in itself is quite straight forward and to the point. This glossy box look has been made popular, and familiar to the public by Sky's use of similar graphics.

#2 The flowing rainbow colouring also has a nice soothing effect on the eye and limits any chance of the site feeling dead.

#3 I like the chunky but simple navigation bar at the top. It holds its own without being too distracting on the rest of the design.

In fact I had a look at the inside pages and particular liked the impact this purpley (turning to pink) hue had. It really stood out on the page and felt different - thinking about it, how many purple sites can you recall?

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Tick Tock

This one is very graphic design oriented, but the large text has impact. That page upon which it sits is the actual wrapper div and holds all content within, scrolling above the fixed background. The colour palette would be a little limiting for a portfolio that needs to impress, but big type works for me....

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FOUR24

Of all the sites, this one I liked the most. The colours is warm and welcoming, being quite uplifting at the same time. The gradient people probably wouldn't identify but as with the las recommendation, I think the gradient helps define the positive characteristic of this site. It draws your eye to the center and lights up the important content.

Furthermore, the type is large and draws the eye, being flanked by additional contemporary typefaces. Subtle illustrations add more character to this visual piece, such as the flame within the O. More importantly, if you care to look at what the site is about you would never associate the two.

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Jon Wallace Design

Again, I like this site for being 100% width and having clearly defined sections, that have lovely gradient and drop shadow effects to subtly please the eye.

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Adworks

Lastly, in comparison with the other finds, this one could feel a little uninteresting, no doubt due to the heavy greys in use. However I think it holds good ideas for demonstrating work. The five icons, once clicked (although hovering and slideshow could achieve the same effect) allow you to quickly demonstrate your capabilities, with the important visual proof then displaying center of the screen. At the same time, it allows you to neatly present your homepage whilst also categorizing for efficiency.

A person visiting a portfolio site will probably be encouraged to spend some time there if they see a range of the work, not instead of hiding it behind a "portfolio" link.

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These sites all offer useful pointers for my redesign. Importance lies in drawing attention through colour and type and sizing, but then also the work needs to maintain this. Expect follow up designs soon!

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SPP - catalogue images - presentation ideas #2

Hi-res screenshot:

Graphics grid:

Zoom grid:

Span/spray:

Cover flow:

3D stack:

SPP3 - catalogue pictures - presentation ideas

From the looks of this it would appear that I'm a bit of an Apple fanboy. Whats good though is that the mobile designs I've completed as part of PRP will be easily contextualised when displayed on a phone screen.

Likewise putting my work on the laptop screen, particularly the first one which is at an angle, makes it seem stylish and realisitc. The one that looks straight on feels a little dull and lifeless. Too clean cut.

Only problem is such an idea is that you wouldn't be able to get a close look at the work. Perhaps trying out a zoomed birds eye view of a desk will work?

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SPP3 - portfolio pictures presentation

I've decided to put in a bit of research to see how professional companies out there display their web work.

It's harder to put together than you think. After all, a website is typically viewed in landscape parts, not in it's entirety (of course there are exceptions to this).

Here is the range of what I discovered:

Liquid light - slanted landscape zoom

Net dreams - hi res, straight forward

Addictivity -slanted portrait zoom

Bourn - browser screen capture

Soula - specific graphic zoom

Turbo Web - 3D stack

NClud - 2D stack spread out

Consider Creation - iPad & desktop

Un.titled - monitor

The Pixel - wooden picture frame

Skive - top left zoom

Tick Tock Design - laptop

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Particular stand outs include the forward thinking, iPad design, alongside un.titled and ticktockdesign who using the screen or monitor on which the site would be typically viewed. It makes sense to put the context into the image too. Looking at it you know it to be a website. However, it does mean that the size of the actual website is smaller and doesn't have the same impact due to competing with the frame within it sits.

The others which zoom in give a more arty/graphics feel, which is good. But doesn't really indicate from the start that I am a web designer.

I shall give these monitor frames, along with altering the perspective of the image, to see which stand out as feasible for my images. One consideration is browser URL bar visible or not??

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SPP3 - employment - web designer #9

Another good web design find, courtesy of the jobsite.

http://www.jobsite.co.uk/cgi-bin/vacdetails.pl?selection=934998433&src=search

HTML/CSS/Adobe CS4 Web Designer - Leicestershire - HTML/CSS/Adobe CS4. My industry leading client has a new requirement for a Web Designer. You will ideally be educated to Degree level and have proven experience in interface design, Adobe CS4, HTML, CSS, templating, with a solid understanding of front end troubleshooting/testing, fixing browsers. You will be joining a company that is experiencing a period of sustained high growth. Very exciting times ahead! You will be a key member of this team with the ability to communicate across the board with confidence.Salary is dependant on experience so apply with your CV now for immediate consideration!This role is commutable from Loughborough, Leicester, Coalville, Nuneaton, Hinckley, Coventry, Market Harborough, Nottingham, Melton Mobray and surrounding areas.

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This one seems another great opportunity at a location close to home. The skills required are all achievable for myself, being a Multimedia Graduate with a relevant degree and competency in Adobe Creative Suite.

The debugging required also is a fundamental component in a web designer's toolkit, that I have progressed in through my two years study in Online Environments. Working in a commercial environment should allow for an increased adeptness at achieving cross-browser functionality also.

The other details seem a little vague. Communication skills to inform and explain with the company's other departments and clientele can be provided through commercial experience in face-to-face and telephone customer service positions.

Hopefully these sort of company will be about in June/July time as I feel they offer a suitable junior entry position into the industry.

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SPP3 - CVs

Found this article online from Yahoo and it offers a few tips, most important one being to not talk about "responsbilities" but instead achievements on a job...

Looks like my CV might need updating again!! Obviously it's a case of what the employer wants, but I agree with what is said about concreting achievements, making you seem a more attractive candidate.

http://finance.yahoo.com/career-work/article/108853/10-resume-red-flags

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SPP3 - education - MSc in Internet and Web Technologies

Keele University is actually a place I applied for in the UCAS days, and visited the campus in the countryside, so know it to be a nice place. Their page on this Masters is very detailed, listing almost too much about what modules you can take on the course, but all are really useful and worthwhile components in a web designer's tool kit.

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MSc in Internet and Web Technologies

*Highlights include*

Core Modules:

Networks and Security - In this module students will gain an understanding of contemporary networks, together with the abstractions and protocols that underpin them. Students will reflect upon the appropriate measures to adopt in order to secure information held within an organisation, and communicated across networks. Finally, they will be able to critically assess the software and hardware architectures that may best assure security in typical scenarios

• Web Technologies - There are a number of key technologies that enable the creation of modern, web-enabled enterprise systems. This module provides students with the skills and knowledge to support the design, creation and maintenance of such systems

• Professional Practice - In a business environment, professional skills are just as vital as technical abilities and knowledge. This module provides such skills, to include project management, team building and team working, and communication skills. It also provides knowledge of the ethical, legal and social issues relating to the development and deployment of information technology. Speakers invited from industry will give some of the lectures

• Systems Design - The provision of appropriate design is critical. This module will provide skills in software design and its implementation. It will impart an understanding of the issues involved in design and implementation of business information systems, such that students can participate in and, if required, manage such activities

• Applied Web Technologies - In this module the students will build upon the concepts introduced in the Web Technology module to consider the building of commercially viable Internet or Web applications. We will consider the technology, its application and a critical evaluation of when and where to apply the approach. A typical example of such a technology would be AJAX where we would consider what it is, its strengths and weaknesses and what alternatives exist where it is not appropriate


Option Modules (15 credits each)

Students choose one option module only.

• Content Management - In this module students will study the use of modern, web technologies in the provision of secure and reliable content management systems. They will obtain an understanding of the techniques and processes involved in the design and implementation of such a system

• E-Commerce - Students will explore the creation of modern business systems, through a module providing a theoretical and practical understanding of the problems involved in the development of web-based, electronic, commerce applications.


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I think this course offers a lot of valuable learning - such as content management systems, e-commerce - all valuable assets to be equipped knowledge wise with, as employers so often ask for this. What's more, by being a MSc it should help boost your pay packet too, over regular junior web designers. ]

Once more I am quite interested in the degree, simply because it would help fill in the gaps that my undergraduate studies hasn't had time to concentrate on.

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SPP3 - education - MSc IT Consultancy

This is a slight off shoot, but does tie in well with the part time work I have been doing for Silver Surfers. It is certainly a viable market to try and establish myself in, as the older generations really do appreciate what modern day technology can do for them, i.e. video calls, emailing, photography.

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MSc IT Consultancy - University of Kent

This unique course prepares graduates for a career in information technology (IT) consultancy, particularly in relation to small and medium enterprise (SME) clients. It provides:

• The opportunity to learn consultancy skills in the environment of a real IT consultancy, theKent IT Clinic (KITC), working for local SMEs.
• The development of knowledge and skills that are highly sought after by employers and which open up a wide range of careers to graduates, within computing and other professional fields. IBM UK has been a strong supporter of the work of KITC since its inception, precisely because of the skill set it imparts to students.
• A firm grounding in computing including up-to-date coverage of key industrially relevant topics.
• The opportunity to combine modules relating to computing with a selection of modules taught by the Kent Business School as part of their Management MSc programmes.

The course may appeal to graduates seeking a career in consultancy or to practising consultants wishing to round out their skills and achieve formal academic recognition.

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Really liking the looks of this course. The modules that you choose in the latter stage of the course are also really varied and would be of worth to learn, particularly if you wanted to be a self employed consultant, or digital media freelancer: financial and management accounting, computing laws, contracts and responsibility, networks and network security.

The main boast of this course is that there is a one year placement, again, proving great for your CV and also real world knowledge of the job.

What with my baby steps into this type of employment, I am quite interested in researching into this a little further. Part time or distance learning would be a great option - learn whilst you work.

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SPP3 - education - MSc in Mobile Computer Systems

As time goes on, I'm finding that my research area into mobile devices is opening up more doors. Specialising for a Masters therefore could be a beneficial option for the future as mobile is often being touted as the new thing to be in and working on.

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University of Staffordshire - Mobile Computer Systems MSc

This MSc is a computing postgraduate award that provides an individual mobile computer systems flavour for students that already possess a first degree in computing. The major focus of the award is placed on technical and specialist issues of mobile computer systems in order that students learn to develop concepts and theories taught into small mobile computer systems. Students will study topics such as artificial intelligence, imaging, HCI, networking, communications, design of mobile architecture, network infrastructures, standards and protocols, mobile programming tools and environments, and associated management issues. The award also aims to instil sound academic and professional skills required for lifelong learning and development.

WHAT YOU DO
In the PgC stage of your award you study a networking module and three options related around mobile computing. At the PgD stage your knowledge is developed further by study of three mobile modules and an option. At the end of the PgC and before the dissertation is started you can go out on a placement for 12 months. The dissertation forms the final stage of the award and is related to a mobile computing subject.

WHERE YOU CAN EXPECT TO GO

A graduate from this award is likely to find employment in one of the following areas: mobile networking, mobile systems development, Interaction Design, Internet Applications, M-commerce, mobile databases, or mobile multimedia. For high achieving students a PhD could be pursued within the Faculty’s large mobile research community.

CONTACT
For more information about Mobile Computer Systems please contact:
The Recruitment Centre
Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Technology
Staffordshire University
Beaconside
Stafford
Staffordshire
ST18 0AD
t: +44 (0)1785 353565
e: fcet@staffs.ac.uk

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I like this course for the fact that it seems a decent community of mobile based engineers, technicians, creatives all input, rather than a superfluous random course with little backing.

The topics on offer seem really interesting - artificial intelligence, human computer interaction (HCI), standard and protocols. I feel through studying this course I would gain a greater overall balance of skills - existing design skills, and technical competencies through this largely engineering/technology course.

Lastly,to complete the MSc you take a 12 month work placement. This would be great, as so often experience is sought after for job advertisements, whilst also providing me with hands on experience and implementation of the technologies that you learn about.

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Design CVs

Found this cool articles on Smashing Magazine about designing CVs. Some work really well, particularly in terms of layout and use of space.

How to create a great web design CV and resume

In comparison, my CV looks a little on the boring side, but I think there's a fine line where professionalism is concerned.

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SPP3 - employment - web designer #8

Web Designer - £16k - £24k - Leicester Posted on 2010-02-10 09:42:00
Job Type:	Permanent
Job Location:	Leicester
Job Salary:	£16,000 - £24,000 / Year
Web Designer - £16k - £24k - Leicester - Leicester, Leicestershire Web Designer/Developer - £16k-£24k - Leicester - HTML, CSS, Adobe Our client is looking for a Web Designer (HTML, CSS, Adobe Photoshop), to join an established team working with fellow designers and non technical personnel on a number of exciting projects. Key skills include HTML, CSS, Adobe Photoshop Flash / Actionscirpt an advantage ASP.NET / PHP a plus The role would suit a dynamic outgoing person who is looking to work for a leading organisation in a fun environment. The salary on offer is from £16k upto £24k dependant on experience.

Spp3 - employment - web designer #7

Another junior role located, this time courtesy of Job Search.

Web Designer

Web Designer / Developer / Administrator - Warwick

A successful, high profile company in the Digital sector is now seeking to recruit a Website Designer / Developer / Administrator. Your key objectives are to design and content manage the company and customer websites to reflect new promotions and products.

Your key responsibilities will be designing and maintaining customer websites, website administration, Search Engine Optimisation for company and customer sites (working alongside external agency), ensuring all new software is tailored to the localisms of the UK market including new products and software upgrades, providing Customer Support department with support and knowledge on all aspects of the online service and taking escalated calls from Customer Support department.

The ideal candidate will be qualified in a relevant subject and have at least 12 months experience in a commercial environment. You will have proven web design portfolio, be creative in nature and have a high level of written English - vocabulary and grammar. Technically you should have excellent knowledge of content management systems, HTML and CSS programming ability, Adobe Photoshop, dream weaver, flash and illustrator knowledge and a good knowledge of Microsoft Office.

This is a junior role and so carries a salary in the region of £18,000 to £20,000 depending on experience.

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Combining the experience I have in digital design, customer service and qualifications in English this job seems a highly attractive opportunity. In fact, what they request I feel makes me the suitable applicant: CMS, design packages, the Microsoft Office Suite, fluency and capability in oral and written compositions, alongside transferable skills such as an amiable and approachable demeanour, a willingness to achieve, an autonomy in my work which is enhanced in a team based scenario, as well as a disciplined nature to ensure deadlines are met, all underpinned with a creative flair for contemporary design.

The only issue I see with this job advert is that it states this is a junior role, but just prior to this requests a minimum of 12 months experience in a commercial environment. Perhaps they mean general professional experience in a workplace, if so, I can comply again here, also.

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SPP3 - employment - web designer #6

Just discovered a great find, a junior/graduate web designer position and it was posted a mere five minutes before I was reading it and wishing I had graduated already!!

Location:	Leicester, Leicestershire
Salary:	£17-20,000 per annum depending on skills experience
Company:	OCB Media Ltd
Job type:	Permanent
Date posted:	12/02/2010 11:02:14

Junior Web Designer

Degree level Web Designer with a background in website and graphic design demonstrating excellent visual design with a strong technical understanding. The candidate should be able to demonstrate the relevant level of both design and technical skills and also be able to provide a portfolio of previous works. You will need the ability to work with the Senior Web Designer and apply our methodology effectively on client engagements to successfully translate the client’s, and markets, needs whilst applying your knowledge of industry trends and developments to improve service to our clients. A basic understanding of project and development plans and the ability to clearly articulate roles, project goals, and timelines and clearly articulate ideas and thoughts verbally. The ideal candidate will have a passion for design and be able to work individually and within a team..

Duties

·General Templating

·Taking initial page designs from the senior designer and carrying across other standard pages.

·Formal front end testing, troubleshooting, and QA

·Browser fixes

·Take on internal development tasks to improve future workflow

Skills required

·Interface Design

·Templating

·HTML/CSS

·Adobe CS4 Suite-in particular Photoshop

Desirable skills

·SEO

·Knowledge of issue tracking software (e.g. mantis, trac)

·Experience of SVN

·Experience of Google analytics

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First of all, this job is the most appropriate I've found so far. It is in my home town, has a great renumeration package, is suitable for graduates who tend to have none or under a years work experience. I believe it could be the position I SPP3 "apply" for.

The skills required I excel at, being able to hand code XHTML and CSS, initiate and optimize designs in Photoshop (CS3&4) alongside working in Dreamweaver or other similar packages. I can also bring some relevant experience to the table. Whilst working for Active Ingredient in Nottingham I informally played the role of junior web designer, receiving a proposed design from my senior and implementing this, expanding it, then debugging technical issues (e.g. cross browser compatibility).

I pride myself on utilising modern, contemporary design. In particular, I am highly interested in typography and capable of implementing such custom fonts online, where standard fonts can otherwise prove limiting on a design.

I am a great communicator, both verbal and written, enjoying writing for a number of mediums: creative, persuasive, technical, alongside commerical work experience in customer service providing an advanced aptitude for communicating with clients, be it face to face, over the phone, or via email.

The desirable skills set out I can also go some way in providing for. Google Analytics I am a user of and find it of real worth, tieing in effectively with Google's Webmaster Tools. SVN is like Apple's Time Machine, in that you store your data (files etc) and can then assess the changes you make over time and hopefully resolve bugs - an worthwhile component in web design/dev to attempt to limit disruption on your work. SEO I am currently investigating, and so far so good. Implementing consistently throughout a site's build has meant greater efficiency for a project, and my attention to detail proves useful in applying the SEO techniques well.

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