»management«

As designers, we all are expected to be 'creative' at all times! People assume that accessing the creative person inside us is as simple as using a vending machine - put a design brief into the slot and get a creative idea out of the delivery box. But it isn't that easy. Anyone in the creative industry will tell you that it takes effort, discipline & a well defined process to come out with that 'big idea'.

An interesting article that I found on Steve Pavlinas' blog addresses this issue by listing out a few pointers that help catalyse the creative productivity.

1. Define a clear purpose
2. Identify a compelling motive
3. Architect a worthy challenge
4. Provide a conducive environment
5. Allocate a committed block of time
6. Prevent interruptions and distractions
7. Master your tools

Read the entire article here with explanations and anecdotes for each of these 7 points.

Currently reading this book, The High Performance Entrepreneur by Subroto Baghchi. To me this book although simple is great just because it quotes Indian examples of strategy, planning & the road to success. It is a no nonsense book that gives you the facts straight out without the usual sugar-coated writing style.

Most of the books that we usually read on entrepreneurship are of westerners. This is also used as an escapism because we justify their success with access to facilities that are available in the west, governmental support to people without jobs, etc.

Looking forward to Subroto Bagchis' next book.

Never ever did I think that I would have to go through 2 all-nighters in a row after the diploma project. What does that say about my time management skills ? Well.. not too much when the it comes down to a group project.

We interns have been working on a project for the past 2 months and as usual time has whizzed past and its already time for us to go back and present the final product in Seoul in front of a bunch of high profile Samsung management. Two of us, Jee Hye & I have been chosen to represent the entire London team in Seoul. Its really encouraging to have that responsibility but it also puts a lot of weight on our shoulders.

Which brings me to the part where I am typing this post whilst continuing my second all-nighter after last night. Why? As I mentioned earlier, when its group work, we need to distribute work amongst everyone. But that also means that it works like a factory manufaturing plant. Only if one part is over can the other take responsibility to take it to the next level. And this is exactly why I am stil here. I play a part somewhere at the end of the manufacturing chain - therefore dependant on the time management of everyone who comes before me.

Is there any other way than to work like a production line? How does one judge the amount of time that will be taken for a certain phase of a project? As a beginner in the professional design world I find myself searching for tools that will help me organize my time or help me prioritize tasks. Does this come with experience and a few more all nighters ?

Is this normal as a part of the journey in becoming a truly professional designer?