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10 Ways to Use Mapping in Web or App Design

Almost everywhere you look these days, you find a map or location-based nugget of information. Almost every app asks for a location and it is becoming more and more common on desktop websites as well.

But if you have not branched out into the world of mapping or location data, it may seem a little intimidating. How can you effectively use mapping services for your website or app? We’ll take a look at 10 ways you can integrate a map today.

This Week in Design: June 20, 2014

This was a big week for users of Adobe software, with a new major release. It’s packed with goodies that may take weeks to fully figure out. The only question is how will you use the new tools? (And we have a few bits of inspiration to get you started there, too.)

Every week, we plan to a look at major product releases and upgrades, tools and tricks and even some of the most popular things you are talking about on social media. And we’d love to hear what’s going on in your world as well. Have we missed anything? Drop me a line at carrie@designshack.net.

Design for Everyone: Considering Accessibility in Visual Projects

Because design is such a visual concept, we don’t always stop to think about how design can impact users with certain disabilities. From vision to hearing or even touch impairments, how you design a website, brochure or even package can look or work a different way to different people.

And while you can’t design so that every element is perfect in every condition for every user, there are some things you can do and think about to make your design projects more accessible to a larger number of people. Simple techniques such as color choice, texture, shading and sound effects can make a difference to users.

Design Science: What Is Gestalt Theory?

If you are like me, it’s been a while since you finished you last formal design class. (And some of us never had any formal design classes.) So a refresher in some of the science behind design seems important. What is gestalt theory and do I really need to understand it?

Today, we’ll focus on one of the guiding principles of design. Gestalt theory is something you likely encounter and use almost every day. But do you understand the theory behind your actions? And how can you make even better use of this concept in your design work?

Inky Deals Giveaway: 11” MacBook Air & Design Resources

We are happy to announce another massive giveaway from Inky Deals that comes with a free pack of premium resources worth $66.

The freebie is sent to the email address you use to enter the contest and is part of the epic bundle. It’s really simple to enter, so read on to find out more!

This Week in Design: June 13, 2014

“I dream my painting and I paint my dream.” ― Vincent van Gogh

We all dream as a part of the process of creating. And the creation is the realization of that dream. But where do the first inklings of thought come from? It’s all of the different places where we find inspiration, from chalk on a sidewalk to conversations at the coffee shop to brainstorming with coworkers. This week, we’ll look at different sources of inspiration to help you think about projects in new and interesting ways.

Every week, we plan to a look at major product releases and upgrades, tools and tricks and even some of the most popular things you are talking about on social media. And we’d love to hear what’s going on in your world as well. Have we missed anything? Drop me a line at carrie@designshack.net.

How to Use Cool Color in Design Projects

Cool and warm colors. These descriptions are commonly used to describe hue choices in a variety of conversations – fashion, beauty, decorating and design. But while we commonly talk about warm and cool, do you really know what these terms mean and how to use the colors?

Today, we will look at using cool color in design projects and create a few color palettes with cool hues. (Also make sure to check out the recent Design Shack article featuring warm colors.)

Freelancing 101: Tips for Working From Home

Working from home can be one of the greatest perks of doing freelance work. It can also lead to the most distractions and enable procrastination. (How many times have you taken the dog for a walk when a project deadline looms?)

You can create a more conducive home workspace that actually encourages you to get things done. Working from home can be an easy, and enjoyable, part of your freelance life if you set yourself up to be productive, happy and avoid home place distractions. Here are 10 ways you can help yourself when it comes to working from home.

This Week in Design: June 6, 2014

Some of the best and most notable design projects in the world collided with brilliant examples to entrepreneurism to create major brands and tools that we use every day. Apple, for one, is a classic example. (An appropriate one with WWDC going on this week.) With that in mind, the focus this week in design is on entrepreneurial thought.

Every week, we plan to take a look at major product releases and upgrades, tools and tricks and even some of the most popular things you are talking about on social media. And we’d love to hear what’s going on in your world as well. Have we missed anything? Drop me a line at carrie@designshack.net.

Design Dilemma: Who Owns My Design?

Our designs are our babies, otherwise we wouldn’t care how clients change them. So, every now and then, the question arises between designer and client as to who owns the files and rights to a design you’ve done.

This time around Case: 123ABC sent a question about retail signage he did. The client wants to be able to own and modify it at will (without him), but he’s afraid it will look horrible and reflect badly upon his professional reputation. Naturally, the client doesn’t want to pay to buy all rights to the design… or do they already own it? Join us as we delve into another mistake-laden Design Dilemma, helping to answer your questions, queries and concerns about the murky world of design.