Shorter is Sweeter
Communication By Design is long, but can be shortened to CXD with the “X” standing for “by” like in math. Multiply 3 by 4 to get 12 is the same…
Entries by admin
What’s In a Name?
While it may be true, philosophically, that a name is no more than an arbitrary label, it is also true, pragmatically, that names DO matter.
A Solopreneur Can Be “We”
As an independent professional, I am one person. Yet I write and talk about my work in terms of “we.” This is not a contradiction.
Why Drydock?
Like a boat in a “dry dock” — a place in a shipyard designed for repairs and equipment upgrades — CXD is in the midst of a comprehensive overhaul.
Brand Stories
I was so pleased with our RuffWear treat pouch (see yesterday’s post), I ordered a matching harness and leash for this just-returned-to-the-city dog (Wren). Founded and based in Bend, OR, RuffWear is a brand story in and of itself.
Product Branding
I found RuffWear on a search for “best dog training treat pouch” and ordered this one (which is amazing by the way — highly recommended). Great product with impressively sturdy and well-designed packaging and brand identity labeling.
Cast Metal
According to Ephemeral New York, “All over NYC we can find late 19th and early 20th century maintenance hole covers embossed with unusual shapes and designs.” The covers function as branding and on-street identification for the…
Street Art
Using public fixtures as printing plates, the artist collective behind Berlin-based Raubdruckerin creates shirts and bags with artwork reproduced from manhole covers, vents & utility grates. Ink is applied directly via roller, and prints are made individually on location.
Social Responsibility
As the accidental parent of a rescue dog, I was happy to find Doggy Do Good, provider of “pet supplies with a purpose” including these waste bags. Check out the back of the box. Note 1% FOR THE PLANET and that the bags are certified…
Walking Solves All
“Solvitur Ambulando.” Thank you to life coach Michael Balchan for creating this handwritten note (505 of his goal of 1,000 illustrated inspirations) expanding on one of my favorite expressions to live and work by: “It is solved by walking.”
Sidewalk Sticker • 4
Following up on my post earlier this year where I highlighted the NYC Parks Department sticker on my sidewalk announcing I would get a new tree, I am delighted to report my tree arrived, budded, and is now fully-leafed!
Walking Billboard
I don’t know about other cities, but I see this Target reusable tote in active use all over NYC. Whether because of its light strength and handy size, or its clean design, I am not sure. Maybe it is both. I celebrate this forward-thinking…
Motion Photography
Blur of movement in an image tells a story, and expresses a mood or feeling. In this case, the taxi and street in action capture the energy of NYC in a way a static image could not.
Local Messaging
This “opening soon” window at the southwest corner of 72nd and Columbus caught my eye today with its bold color, minimalist aesthetic, and nod to NYC and Upper West Side culture in terms of its messaging. Malin+Goetz, a modern apothecary…
Senseless Loss
Recent challenges notwithstanding, Twitter, the entrepreneurial prodigy, is nothing short of amazing: a global, grassroots communication platform sprung forth from nothing, a joyous brand experience complete with…
Mission Statement
“We inspire, educate and outfit for a lifetime of outdoor adventure and stewardship” is the mission statement of REI (Recreation Equipment, Inc.), a national consumer co-op based in Seattle. Mission statements are one way…
Aspiration Symbol
I am not sure what to call it, but I love this winged cookie — part of Levain Bakery’s brand identity — shown here on their shopping bag. Levain, famous for its ginormous cookies, was founded locally at 167 West 74th Street…
Sort Your Values
Card sorting is a great way to identify and prioritize values. This deck happens to be more personal than professional, but it is super nicely conceived, designed, and illlustrated by Pacific Northwest duo…
Sidewalk Sticker • 3
Following up on my post earlier this year where I highlighted the NYC Parks Department sticker on my sidewalk announcing I would get a new tree, I am happy to share that my “baby” arrived, was planted, and is budding. Spring is on the way!
Initial
Following up on a previous post about the Lyft brand ID, I am also impressed with the New York City Taxi “T” circle icon, and combination design overall. The NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission is back in the news with a just-announced alliance…