Getting Started on a Project
What is a project?
You see, IXLA is essentially a “creative marketing agency,” which is just some fancy term to say we get clients who request design, marketing, and video work, and we do and make what they request. Sometimes, clients want us to design posters, or make a video highlighting their product, or rebrand their company. Stuff like that.
Project Kick-Off
Internal Meeting:
The project lead typically
Client Kick-Off Call:
Clients usually meet with faculty to see if the deliverables are feasible. If the budget and deliverables are stated ahead of time.
One on One Meetings:
Occasionally, faculty & staff will request a meeting with you individually to check in and see what your goals are for the semester. Don’t freak out ( unless you know you haven’t been putting in the effort). This helps us determine where you’re at, what you’re work load is, & the potential of being hired.
Concepts
Basecamp
The project lead should have added you to the appropriate project. You will recieve notifications every time you are tagged or assigned a task.
Posting & Uploading
Please ensure that you are providing small images & files for everything you upload on Basecamp. Once you are closer to refining your final draft, you can upload a medium quality file to send to the client. Typically digital files have to be around 150ppi, unless that are the final client files. Please name your files according the to the round of revisions to avoid confusion ( ex: csunposium_r3.jpg)
Card Table
The project lead should have assigned your task in the card table under the task name ( Initial Concepts). You will be commenting in this card to avoid a long thread on the message board.
*If you have any questions regarding your files, please ask!
Client Meetings
Role
As a creative strategist, you take on various roles. Sometimes you’ll only design & explain your concept to the client, while other times, you’ll have to present for other designers. Being confident and explaining why you did approached your design in a specific way helps the client understand what the intent is and how it will impact their brand.
Note Taker
Don’t rely on Zoom or Google Meet Recordings. Sometimes they save, other times they don’t. However, please make sure you jot down the most important information that the client has emphasized. If you’re presenting, as your peer to take notes!
Cameras on!
Seeing your face often helps put your name out there. This is a friendly way to show that you are paying attention and are interested in what they have to say. Most importantly, it’s a sign of respect.
Feedback & Edits
Feedback from the Client
Some times, clients won’t have any feedback to your client, while other times, there are lots of edits! Please have patience with the team & the client. If there are any class or scheduling conflicts to make these edits please communicate with the team! These edits ( depending on the amount) can take from 2 days to 2 weeks.
Creative Jam
Creative Jam is meant to help you excel & provide you the resources you need to succeed. Faculty and staff are able to support you by providing feedback & helping you adjust your design to improve your design or advise you on any issues!
Closing Out a Project!
Files
Please ensure the project lead has all of your files. These files must be PACKAGED! This helps keep all the embedded links, files, and fonts together. This is especially important if your concepts were chosen and were used to create all the collateral.
Thank You Email!
Remember, it’s always great to look back at all the work you’ve done! Always let the client know that we appreciate the opportunity to work with them.
Reflection
You’ve don great so far! All the work you’ve produced is a reflection of your success. Therefore, take the time to look back at the start of the project, how you can improve, what helped you succeed, and what you want to hop on next!