Debra Bates-Schrott's Page

Design to Engage

I hope you have finished with your definition phase by the time you are reading this article. With the definition phase completed it’s now time to engage a designer… But how does on do that?



A question frequently put to me is “How do I find a designer?” There’s plenty of listings available, so the ‘how’ is pretty simple. The real important question is ‘How do I engage with and select a designer?’



First you’ll need to determine if your… Continue

Define for Success

As I continue the design strategy discussion from my previous post we move on to the Define phase. This phase can only take place successfully if you have completed deep analysis and can begin to draw solid conclusions.



The first step to defining your strategy is creating or refining a mission statement. You can read more about how to write a mission statement… Continue

Not to be Ignored

In today’s tumultuous times it is more important than ever to take a strategic approach to your publishing efforts. Whether you are launching a new magazine or Web site, or rethinking an already established one, a strategic thought process should rule all creative development. I like to think of this strategic approach in two parts: audience-driven content and content-driven design.



To follow this line of thinking, you would first study your… Continue

Engagement is the first step toward a lasting commitment

Building a great magazine involves a lot of processes, players, deadlines, and content. It’s a relationship that is not easy. Successfully marrying good ideas with quality execution takes planning and patience, especially when creating the cover of the magazine.

We consider the cover to be one of the most critical areas requiring strategy in your magazine, second only to your magazine’s content strategy. It is… Continue

It’s More Than Just Layout

Many who are starting a new magazine move too quickly into the creative phase. I suspect this is the case because most people who have the desire to launch a magazine are somewhat visual people. They get excited and want to see their ideas come to life. Something they can show their friends and hold in their hands.



Just like almost all business endeavors, proper planning, research and strategy should be completed before moving to the fun… Continue