What makes for effective, vibrant brochure, catalog and direct mail design?

Apply concepts and tools learned in foundation and visual design classes to create pieces to incorporate into your portfolio. Course is conducted in a workshop format; portfolio pieces are developed through homework and in-class critiques. Refinement will occur throughout the course, and work on a computer outside of class is vital.

• Design Foundation and Visual Designer classes or equivalent knowledge
• Completion of InDesign is essential or with program permission

Session 1

• Student introductions
• Review of good design
• Discuss effective collateral materials
• Rules of good brochure design
• Portfolio-building assignments include an opportunity to design a travel brochure, business/self-promotion and/or public service brochure

Session 2

• Client needs/audience/budget
• Information hierarchy
• Catalog formats/grids
• Effective catalog design
• Class critique/discussion
• Review homework with the group
• Choose from client scenarios and develop a design solution for a catalog

Session 3

• Designing for direct mail
• Print production
• Planning
• Class critique/discussion
• Review homework with the group
• Continue to work on portfolio assignments at home. A direct mail piece will be added as part of a collateral campaign

Session 4

• Email campaigns
• Social networking
• Downloadable brochures
• How to prepare final projects
• Class critique/discussion
• Review homework with the group
• Continue to work on portfolio assignments at home

Session 5

• Present final assignments with the group as though presenting to a client
• Discuss how to finalize it for your portfolio
• Discuss online adaptions
• Bring in final projects to share in class