DESIGN MANAGEMENT
As a long-time manager of a creative teams, I have worked with designers across the spectrum of experience and skill. I’ve guided the development of exciting new product lines and directed work on projects that inspire no new energy. Lack of inspiration is a real wet blanket when it comes to consistently creating good design and inspired editorial content, no matter the background of the designer or writer. So how does a creative lead inspire a team?
Encouraging creatives to play when low energy is sapping their spirit is vitally important. Energy begets energy, so generating momentum through inspiration can jump start creativity and move creative staff forward again. Exploring the broader world of art and design, tapping into trends, finding the the fun in what we do, and supporting an environment where ideas–both technical and creative–flow freely brings out the best work from everyone, the team lead included.
Shown here are new takes on old ideas: Doodles for Kids– we refreshed a well-worn tween scrapbook format (previously thought of a “girl” product) by selecting an illustration style that was quirky and fun and centered the book’s theme on Doodling. On another format, instead of going all girl, we introduced the dead. Just in time for the zombie apocalypse.