The Eclectic Studios Process
Over the years we have developed a process that keeps projects on
track without sacrificing creativity. One of the biggest challenges
in a creative effort is communication. When a team is trying to create
something completely new, it can be difficult to describe because
there are few points of reference. The first step of our design process
is Resonance Strategy. It's a technique we've developed to get an
accurate understanding of the parameters and goals of a given project.
1. Resonance Strategy:
When we first meet a new client we get to know them, their brand,
their business and their needs. Before we can help a business improve
their company through marketing we need to fully understand the
situation. In short, we need to know where we are before we decide
where we are going. One of the techniques that we use to get a
strong understanding of our client's current business situation
is the Eclectic Studios Resonance Strategy. The strategy session
takes less than an hour. It's a client interview made up of pointed
questions and reactions to conceptual ideas. Each step we take,
each question, each answer, each proposed solution gets us closer
to understanding the big picture. With each step we get closer
to being perfectly in sync with our new client. By the end of the
session we're in perfect step—in resonance, and ready to
develop a strategy for moving forward.
2. Research
We search the Internet to find our client’s competitors. By
analyzing the posture of the competition, we determine the major
advantages our client has in the marketplace. If desired, we
perform additional research. This may include sending questionnaires
to existing customers or conducting surveys of potential buyers in
the marketplace. For larger projects, we can leverage our partner
network to perform rigorous market research or to test market concepts.
3. Design
We involve all our designers in the initial brainstorming process.
Using information gathered during the Resonance Strategy session
and research data, dozens of ideas are generated. Out of
this pool of ideas, the best designs are refined, sketched, and
submitted as concepts for review. The concepts are presented with
an explanation of the strengths and weaknesses of each from design,
marketing, and production standpoints. Any revisions suggested
by our client are made and the final specifications of the project
are laid out. A Project Blueprint is created for designers
and developers to reference during the rest of the project. The
Project Blueprint is a project management document which outlines
colors, dimensions, fonts, and other aspects of the final design. The
more complicated, or unique aspects of the project are explained
in this document so that they can remain top of mind with the development
team. This planning is especially important for larger projects
to maintain continuity.
4. Development & Project Status
Depending on the project, a variety of raw materials may need to
be gathered. This may include photography, copy writing, video,
and 3D-computer modeling. As the project is assembled, progress
reports are made to the client. After the first functional draft
of has been completed, we deliver physical proofs or post them
online at a test location where our client can view the construction
process. This allows our clients to review the project and provide
feedback during construction to avoid ‘delivery surprises.’
