2communiqué news » conference

critique – Franchise Times

admin — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 14:55:10 +0000

This issue’s cover critique is of Franchise Times, submitted by editor Nancy Weingarten.

The overall presence of this cover is authoritative. The logo is understated, the portrait subject is direct, and the smaller information is straightforward—all well composed but lacking in enthusiasm and energy. Based on the content—articles about franchises and franchisees—and the audience, which is mainly entrepreneurs, it would be interesting to see a cover with more energy. Why not relate to the audience by taking risks with the design? Have a logo that is more playful while still being serious. Overall it feels like an old-school trade magazine at a time when trade magazines have become much more visually interesting.

Designing the Edit/Editing the Design

admin — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 16:06:54 +0000

During this one-day seminar will we will discuss the issues faced when creating publications. Multiple sessions will address the importance of respect between edit and design, and how that respect leads to a successful, audience-focused publication. The wrap-up will include troubleshooting—working with less-than-perfect imagery, no-so-exciting editorial, and page-invading advertising.

Minnesota Magazine & Publications Association 2009 Summit & Expo
May 21–22

Parenting Publications of America Slides

admin — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 17:49:40 +0000

We have returned from our speaking engagement at the Parenting Publications of America (PPA) annual convention. We enjoyed spending time with a passionate group of editors, publishers, and designers all focused on creating successful publications for parents. Watch an abridged version of our two-part presentation “Implementing a Design Strategy” in slideshare format.

View more presentations from chrisstcyr.

Parenting Publications of America Lecture

admin — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 17:07:49 +0000

Parenting Publications of America (PPA) Annual Conference
New Orleans Feb. 26-28, 2009

Creative directors, Kelly McMurray and Chris St.Cyr, will discuss how to fine-tune and strategize a magazine’s design and communication for a consistent presentation from issue-to-issue and streamlined production. In session I Kelly will discuss the print side of the equation and in session II Chris will discuss the web compliment. PPA is a national trade association of regional parenting publications that reach across America and around the globe to Australia.

The Critical Steps to a Successful Magazine Redesign

admin — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 20:57:45 +0000

The way editorial and design works together in a magazine is one of the reasons people pick it up and read it. But the actual production of a magazine can be so time-consuming—the development, printing, and distribution—that it’s easy to lose sight of the big picture over time. Once you’re able to step back and take a look at whether the elements of your publication are working together, you might find that it’s time to redesign. Now what?

Step 1. Define why you need to redesign Is your publication meeting reader expectations? Are the design and editorial working as a cohesive package? Is there new direction driven by the editor to be considered? Are there budgetary concerns? Assess the publication from the point of view of all departments: editorial, design, advertising, and circulation.

Step 2. Get Everyone’s Buy-in A successful redesign comes from positive collaboration. Work with all pertinent departments to develop a plan to achieve your goals.

Step 3. Complete Market Research Find out who your readers are. What other magazines and newspapers are they reading? What Web sites and blogs are they visiting? What TV shows do they watch?

Step 4. Determine the Scope of the Redesign Based on the scope of the project, what’s the best way to execute the redesign? Are you looking at minor changes or a complete overhaul? Can you execute the redesign in-house or do you need to outsource it?

Step 5. Set a Schedule and Commit to a Launch Date Whether you do the redesign in-house or outsource it, you will need time to review the design with your staff. There will be lots of back and forth, so be sure to set a realistic timetable to accommodate input from all interested parties.

Now you are ready to kick off the actual process…

Attend the Folio 2008 conference in Chicago, Ill., to hear what happens next. Creative Director Kelly McMurray will lead the session titled “The Six Steps to a Successful Magazine Redesign” on September 23 at 9:45 a.m. Visit Folio Show for more information and to register. Can’t make it? Email me, and I’ll send you a copy of the lecture.