Task 4 - Who else is out there – how good are they?

BRIEF

Based on the principles that have been introduced in lecture 4 of the Enterprise module and your responses to the previous tasks, evaluate the Strengths and Weaknesses of three practitioners or design agencies as objectively as you can.
What opportunities for your own practice have revealed themselves to you as a result of this analysis and evaluation?
Do not use subjective language or make unfounded comments about other peopleʼs businesses.
It is essential that you make references to SWOT and evaluate its usefulness as an analysis or evaluation tool.



Having to look at who else is out there, and to analyse how good they are, I have created SWOT analysis of some graphic design companys that I like and are inspired by. From doing this I would like to figure out were I fit in as a designer and also what I can learn from each company.

I WOULD LIKE TO STRESS THAT I AM IN NO POSITION TO STATE THAT I AM BETTER THAN ANY OF THESE PROFESSIONAL, WELL ESTABLISHED COMPANY'S. I AM COMING PURELY FROM A HYPOTHETICAL POINT OF VIEW TO HELP ME GAIN AN UNDERSTANDING OF ANY GAPS IN THE INDUSTRY.


Mark Studio - Manchester
Mark Studio is an independent branding and graphic design studio, who like to keep things simple.

What I like about Mark is the brand identity's and logo's they have created. I love their use of type and it's appropriateness. Their work is simple and effective, uncluttered and clear.
Strengths -

• They work hard to understand each client's business, to find what makes their brand different, and then develop an engaging and effective way of communicating that difference.
• Focus on Branding, which proves to be innvoative and effective
• Impressive, loyal client list
• Positive testimonials form clients
• Award winning

Weaknesses -

• There is a main focus on design for print

Opportunities -

• Expantion on design for screen, as the outlook of the future seems to more digital.

Threats -

• Competition from other brand focused design companys in Manchester.

Optical Juice - Huddersfield
Optical Juice is a small, independent graphic design.
''We strive to build personal working relationships with each of our clients, gaining a clear understanding of their business and in turn offering graphic solutions to fit... We enjoy what we do, have a great passion for design, and take pride in the individuality of our work.' Some of the studio services they offer include: brand creation, Web design, print design, advertising, e-marketing, interior graphics and signage, photography
Strengths -

• Multi-disciplinary both for web and print design, means they cover alot of services
• Testimonials
• Large range of clients
• Customer care - small business so can offer a delicate, responsive and personal service to their clients.

Weaknesses -

• Multi-discipline - not focussed (however this is also a strength)

Opportunities -

• Could possibly offer internships or placements, to give students a chance to experience the industry. Fresh eyes and ideas.

Threats -

• Competition from other multi disciplinary design companys

New Future Graphics - London
New Future Graphic is a multi-disciplinary design studio based in London, consisting of three designers.
'We work closely with our clients to deliver inventive, enduring and precise visual solutions that bring ideas to life and get results. We focus on the core values of the product, brand and message. Our diversity of skills and size enable us to tackle each project with a dedicated hands-on approach that makes the most of your budget.''

The services they offer include: design, image making, branding, illustration, moving image or digital.
Strengths -

• Multi-disciplinary both for web and print design, means they cover alot of services
• Online shop

Weaknesses -

• If they want to expand their client list they may have to hire another designer to help cope with the workload .

Opportunities -

• Could possibly offer internships or placements, to give students a chance to experience the industry. Fresh eyes and ideas.

Threats -

• Being based in London means they'll have alot of competition

There are opportunities within the industry, however when I leave university I will be competing against other graduates and practitioners, therefore spotting these opportunities is very important, along with having the same values of my client/employer.
My portfolio needs to reflect this, yet also be specific in what I am about. The positives of being at Leeds College of Art is that I have the advantage of the facilities, and have the support I need to develop a strong portfolio that shows my capabilities. This will help me stand out from the rest.
With a strong portfolio, and a passion driven ambition to succeed in the graphic design industry, I am optimistic about the future. I do not see this as a 'job', it is a lifestyle and one that I wish to persue through literally living and breathing design.