week 6: strategy
I’ve narrowed it down to two ideas: an experimental and a back-up. Hoping to have a clear direction by the conclusion of the week.
I’m ploughing my way through Phillips, P (2004) Creating the perfect design brief: how to manage design for strategic, New York, Allworth Press required reading. It seems slightly more relevant to designers within corporations /working in a commercial sphere, which for this study project, I am not. Still-the formulaic approach has merit, especially for those of us whose process tends toward chaotic bursts of hyperfocus. Sometimes the creative process defies conformation to a strict procedural format - but it’s good to start with a plan, and have a formal document to return to for when the chaos turns to combustion.
So, plan we must.
Jonathan Hoefler
I recently watched the Netflix Abstract episode on Jonathan Hoefler. What a cool guy, and for someone so talented he has a real humbleness. Exploring his website I came across some practical material on typeface design, the most relevant to this week I have screenshotted <—- here.
inspiration/research
I’m slightly more functional this week but still recovering- the combination of which has been perfect to source out some inspiration. One of my main discoveries has been the book “Good by Design” from viction:ary.
It’s a glorious compilation of projects and interviews illustrating design for social change, progress, general good in the world. The discussion often centers on designers’ processes: v relevant for week 6 and helping me formulate a strategy for tackling this brief.
Braille Neue
One project that had me extra excited was the development of the Braille Neue typeface- combining Braille and latin alphabet, and braille with Japanese Katakana.
Designer: Kosuke TakahashiI am aware Braille is controversial at times, but it is still one of the greatest innovations. It also had me reflecting on the sensory experience which could be valuable to even sighted readers… does the textural and tactile nature of braille help people who have sensory & learning challenges?
PLAN A.
I narrowed my mess of over-ideation down to two options, summarized for the tutorial in the following images. Before advancing with my clear preference (Inclusive tYPE) I wanted to check in with Teresa to ensure it was compatible with the module. We chatted over the obstacles and Teresa advised me on what to be wary of, (addressed in the final plan) before setting me free into the world of type design.
For the record I haven’t done this before, having only minimal explorations in FontMaker. Last module I taught kids about typography and as part of that we “designed” a type face showing how letters are just a bunch of shapes. So I am definitely launching outside of my comfort zone. But sometimes a naive eagerness allows you to go into a challenge thinking something is achievable. Experience can emphasize the roadblocks. If we don’t know it can’t be done…
That being said I am prepared that I wont have a polished final outcome. It could be the world’s ugliest monstrosity of a font-face. Actually it wont be that because there are some abominations of typography out there. But I might come out with something functional, or a solid platform towards it. At the very least I’ll learn.
It’s a beautiful thing to not feel afraid of failing.