Today I have been working on the production of 3D promotional items. I carefully considered these, bearing in mind which would be the most appropriate for the brand, both with regards to corporate identity, and also with regards to budget.
The items which I purchased include pens, mouse mats and key rings, below I will explain how each of these work:
The pens will be distributed in a goody bag to those people who interact with Lancabot at the ‘meet and greet’ sessions. The goody bags are necessary as counting these will provide an idea of the amount of people who have interacted with the brand, consequently measuring the success of the promotional method and providing an indication of the amount of people who will potentially interact with the brand.
Within this goody bag the key rings will also be provided. These are a nice incentive for people who meet the mascot, and will help extend brand recall and WOM advertising, as people may say “oh, what is the LSF?”, this will then be followed by a discussion of the mascot, where the person met it, and more about the festival.
The third item I purchased is mouse mats. These would be placed around UCLan library. There are a good couple of hundred computers in the library, and many people use these on a daily, weekly and monthly basis – this consequently extends brand awareness and also brand recall if exposed to the brand several times a week. The mouse mat contains information such as the location, time of the event, contact details and the company logo.
I also purchase a cap and a t-shirt, both of these included the company logo and supporting text. These would be worn by staff at the LSF. I will have a photograph taken of me wearing these items, whilst stood next to lancabot. This will present me as the mascot handler, and will make people officially aware of my role. I purchased these in black as this was more of a corporate colour, and more user-friendly than white which would be likely to get dirty very easily.
I shall await the delivery of these before arranging the photoshoot with Lancabot.
Saturday, 30 April 2011
Wednesday, 27 April 2011
Keeping On Track
Yesterday I went back to my primary research file and created summary pages for each of the items analysed. Although I had obviously mentally summarised this as I have gone along, I had not yet summarised these in written terms. This helped to ensure my research was presented as required for the final submission.
From this it was clear that I required a second primary research file. The current one was brimming; therefore I should set about designing this folder today if I get the opportunity, as I am aware that it takes time for production and delivery.
I have ordered a second secondary research file and am currently awaiting the redelivery of this. Once this has arrived I can segment my research accordingly. I must also consider how I am to bind/submit this time log, after I have printed off all necessary pages.
I went through my secondary research files and inserted little trinkets and additional bits that I felt enhanced the overall feel of this research. This helped the person studying my research to see that I had taken an idea and further explored it myself.
What next? Today I have some more research which I must annotate. However, I must remember that today and tomorrow are the only days I am going to spend on going over this research, before I move onto other areas – such as the annotation of the development of my characters – this will require me to go through all of my files and keep these pages together for analysis; something which I will do tonight in preparation for Friday if I have enough time.
I must also stay in close communication with the Mascot company to ensure that the production of my mascot character can be achieved before the deadline – something which is worrying me a little at present.
From this it was clear that I required a second primary research file. The current one was brimming; therefore I should set about designing this folder today if I get the opportunity, as I am aware that it takes time for production and delivery.
I have ordered a second secondary research file and am currently awaiting the redelivery of this. Once this has arrived I can segment my research accordingly. I must also consider how I am to bind/submit this time log, after I have printed off all necessary pages.
I went through my secondary research files and inserted little trinkets and additional bits that I felt enhanced the overall feel of this research. This helped the person studying my research to see that I had taken an idea and further explored it myself.
What next? Today I have some more research which I must annotate. However, I must remember that today and tomorrow are the only days I am going to spend on going over this research, before I move onto other areas – such as the annotation of the development of my characters – this will require me to go through all of my files and keep these pages together for analysis; something which I will do tonight in preparation for Friday if I have enough time.
I must also stay in close communication with the Mascot company to ensure that the production of my mascot character can be achieved before the deadline – something which is worrying me a little at present.
Monday, 25 April 2011
Creating A 'To Do' List
I have just about a month left until submission now, therefore I must work to strict deadlines to ensure that everything is completed, and to the best possible standard.
In order to do this I will write a ‘to do’ list, and will post this on the blog later. This will include days which I will dedicate to accomplishing specific tasks. I will then update the blog post at the end of each day saying if I have achieved this or not – if I haven’t then the timetable will have to be amended accordingly.
I feel as if I wish to make one more primary research visit – to Thinktank museum in Birmingham. I will therefore enquire about this and make sure I take this day out of the timetable. This will keep me focussed on the task in hand, rather than dabbling with different areas of the brief, and hopefully then I will make more progress.
I must also check to see whether the photographer, Dave will be available for the date that the robot mascot is delivered, so that I can arrange a photoshoot for the character. I must consider the location of this. I believe that a weekend would be the best day to arrange the shoot as the streets will be busier and there will be more children about who will be likely to genuinely want to interact with the character. This will make the photographs more natural and less staged – exactly as if they were genuine.
What next? I will print off the brief now and start to devise a ‘to do’ list. I believe that I will dedicate the next two days to finishing off the research, and then after that I will start formatting the boards, considering a creative border to put on these, orientation, font types and headings etc. This must all be print screened for inclusion within my report. I must also go back to my university network and start annotating the screen prints I created on there, as none of these were annotated. I will update the blog with news of the to do list and how I plan to approach each task.
In order to do this I will write a ‘to do’ list, and will post this on the blog later. This will include days which I will dedicate to accomplishing specific tasks. I will then update the blog post at the end of each day saying if I have achieved this or not – if I haven’t then the timetable will have to be amended accordingly.
I feel as if I wish to make one more primary research visit – to Thinktank museum in Birmingham. I will therefore enquire about this and make sure I take this day out of the timetable. This will keep me focussed on the task in hand, rather than dabbling with different areas of the brief, and hopefully then I will make more progress.
I must also check to see whether the photographer, Dave will be available for the date that the robot mascot is delivered, so that I can arrange a photoshoot for the character. I must consider the location of this. I believe that a weekend would be the best day to arrange the shoot as the streets will be busier and there will be more children about who will be likely to genuinely want to interact with the character. This will make the photographs more natural and less staged – exactly as if they were genuine.
What next? I will print off the brief now and start to devise a ‘to do’ list. I believe that I will dedicate the next two days to finishing off the research, and then after that I will start formatting the boards, considering a creative border to put on these, orientation, font types and headings etc. This must all be print screened for inclusion within my report. I must also go back to my university network and start annotating the screen prints I created on there, as none of these were annotated. I will update the blog with news of the to do list and how I plan to approach each task.
Sunday, 24 April 2011
Easter Holidays - Work Load Devised
I am currently going back to my original research and ensuring that it is all up to scratch. This includes highlighting and annotating, and ensuring that it flows coherently within the correct research folder. I will consider purchasing section dividers.
I must also go back to the print screens of my final outcomes which were included within my report - this will allow me to show development, and I print screened different stages throughout - therefore this simply needs annotating and then filing.
I am also going to go back to my primary research and find different trinkets, buttons and beads which correlate to the trends seen on page - this will make my research file more interactive and will show my understanding of trends and how they can be found in a variety of different domains.
I will also start printing the blog off today, this is to ensure that all printed work is up to date.
Aim for today: I aim to have finished annotating the entire secondary research folder. I should also have gone through the contact sheets from all three photoshoots and annotate these photographs with regards to suitability. I must also go through my emails and print those which are relevant to research and development. I will print summmary sheets for my entire primary research.
I must also go back to the print screens of my final outcomes which were included within my report - this will allow me to show development, and I print screened different stages throughout - therefore this simply needs annotating and then filing.
I am also going to go back to my primary research and find different trinkets, buttons and beads which correlate to the trends seen on page - this will make my research file more interactive and will show my understanding of trends and how they can be found in a variety of different domains.
I will also start printing the blog off today, this is to ensure that all printed work is up to date.
Aim for today: I aim to have finished annotating the entire secondary research folder. I should also have gone through the contact sheets from all three photoshoots and annotate these photographs with regards to suitability. I must also go through my emails and print those which are relevant to research and development. I will print summmary sheets for my entire primary research.
Sunday, 17 April 2011
Going Back To The Brief
Today I have referred back to the Final Presentation brief. Listed below are the assessment requirements, it is important that I familiarise myself with these:
ASSESSMENT REQUIREMENTS AND PROCESS
You are required to present your final campaign work at your allocated space for your final degree show, plus
• A media plan (relates to dates of contact with specific press/media/mags for
PR activities and insertion of ads – included in report and A3 Board)
• A campaign plan with time line (details/dates of activities of whole campaign – included in report and A3 Board)
• 2xA3 research boards, showing evidence of analysis, summary and collation
• 2xA3 development boards, referencing inspiration points and influences, plus the development process of the concepts and ideas
• Research and development folder/sketchbook
• A comprehensive personal time management log to include reflection and evaluation, can be digital
The full campaign must be submitted in A3 folio format, accompanied by a display of selected promotional literature and products.
I will start working through this list methodically. I have to remember that I have already been working on the promotional items and have completed three photoshoots - however, these must be enhanced and reworked to match a consistent style and theme.
Also within the brief I must complete the following aims:
• To develop and exhibit expertise in research skills and market awareness
• To develop a high level of competence in promotional/written work
• To refine and consolidate expertise in creativity and presentation skills
• To develop and demonstrate proficiency in personal time management
I feel that I have successfully developed and exhibited expertise in research skills and market awareness as I have completed a series of interviews and been on many primary research trips. I have also developed a highly level of competence in written work. I must continue to work on these aims
ASSESSMENT REQUIREMENTS AND PROCESS
You are required to present your final campaign work at your allocated space for your final degree show, plus
• A media plan (relates to dates of contact with specific press/media/mags for
PR activities and insertion of ads – included in report and A3 Board)
• A campaign plan with time line (details/dates of activities of whole campaign – included in report and A3 Board)
• 2xA3 research boards, showing evidence of analysis, summary and collation
• 2xA3 development boards, referencing inspiration points and influences, plus the development process of the concepts and ideas
• Research and development folder/sketchbook
• A comprehensive personal time management log to include reflection and evaluation, can be digital
The full campaign must be submitted in A3 folio format, accompanied by a display of selected promotional literature and products.
I will start working through this list methodically. I have to remember that I have already been working on the promotional items and have completed three photoshoots - however, these must be enhanced and reworked to match a consistent style and theme.
Also within the brief I must complete the following aims:
• To develop and exhibit expertise in research skills and market awareness
• To develop a high level of competence in promotional/written work
• To refine and consolidate expertise in creativity and presentation skills
• To develop and demonstrate proficiency in personal time management
I feel that I have successfully developed and exhibited expertise in research skills and market awareness as I have completed a series of interviews and been on many primary research trips. I have also developed a highly level of competence in written work. I must continue to work on these aims
Saturday, 16 April 2011
Communication Regarding The Mascot Costume
Today I have been communicating with more mascot costume companies, enquiring about the production of the Lancabot character into a full-sized mascot costume. I have also purchased a guillotine so that I can cut down all of my research to the appropriate size for binding. I have also purchased an additional secondary research file as I was aware that mine was very full, brimming with magazine tares and the like. I will also consider printing pages from Google books, or scanning these, and also from downloading images files from the internet to print.
Today I have been highlighting my research and segmenting this into files, I have also decided that tonight I will print off my blog so far, so that I can keep this printed and ready to bind nearer the time.
I will check my emails over the weekend, yet the likelihood is that the mascot companies will reply on Monday. I have sifted through my photos from Blackpool Pleasure Beach and also from Preston Harris Museum, and I will annotate these tomorrow and then print the research off to be included within the A3 research folders.
What next? I am currently trying to find out what the resubmitted essay must contain, as this was missed off of the brief. I will refer back to the original brief and begin comprising a checklist of what I need to do by what date. I am also aware that I may have to produce a portfolio, so I will ensure that all work for this is available and within a folder and that I am able to print this off when necessary. I will update the blog once annotation is complete and when I have familiarised myself with the requirements of the brief.
Today I have been highlighting my research and segmenting this into files, I have also decided that tonight I will print off my blog so far, so that I can keep this printed and ready to bind nearer the time.
I will check my emails over the weekend, yet the likelihood is that the mascot companies will reply on Monday. I have sifted through my photos from Blackpool Pleasure Beach and also from Preston Harris Museum, and I will annotate these tomorrow and then print the research off to be included within the A3 research folders.
What next? I am currently trying to find out what the resubmitted essay must contain, as this was missed off of the brief. I will refer back to the original brief and begin comprising a checklist of what I need to do by what date. I am also aware that I may have to produce a portfolio, so I will ensure that all work for this is available and within a folder and that I am able to print this off when necessary. I will update the blog once annotation is complete and when I have familiarised myself with the requirements of the brief.
Friday, 15 April 2011
Today I have been working on the designs for the postcards and promotional material in general. I have created both landscape and portrait designs. Within these I have used the key colours of the characters. Three of these designs are completed and I am just waiting until tomorrow so that I can download the appropriate text to support this. With the next I am attempting to appeal to the teenage audience, whereas the illustrations will entice younger children, and consequently their parents. For example “Be there, or be square”, and “it doesn’t take a genius to work it out”. I will send these cards off to be printed before the end of the weekend. This will provide me with plenty of time to review these and make changes if necessary.
I will also consider creating badges and stickers if possible. The idea of creating birthday cards is also plausible – however it is likely that the LSF would use an online method of creation for these, namely e-cards. However, this is still something which I could trial. I will consider printing t-shirts on vista print as a mock up, or see if there are any personalised embroidery sites online. Once I have received the t-shirts I can consider creating a photoshoot for these, to display the clothing option.
I have also not given up on the idea of creating a mascot costume, therefore I will get back in touch with this company.
What next? I have a couple more magazines to read and review. I will then consider the best possible way to format these within the research files. I must also consider how to present this blog. I will scan in the research articles and annotate these tomorrow, devoting the whole weekend to this so that hopefully I will be up to date with this before continuing with the promotional work.
I will also consider creating badges and stickers if possible. The idea of creating birthday cards is also plausible – however it is likely that the LSF would use an online method of creation for these, namely e-cards. However, this is still something which I could trial. I will consider printing t-shirts on vista print as a mock up, or see if there are any personalised embroidery sites online. Once I have received the t-shirts I can consider creating a photoshoot for these, to display the clothing option.
I have also not given up on the idea of creating a mascot costume, therefore I will get back in touch with this company.
What next? I have a couple more magazines to read and review. I will then consider the best possible way to format these within the research files. I must also consider how to present this blog. I will scan in the research articles and annotate these tomorrow, devoting the whole weekend to this so that hopefully I will be up to date with this before continuing with the promotional work.
Wednesday, 13 April 2011
Post submission update
I submitted my dissertation on Monday – both the creative and standard version. This is a great weight off of my mind, and as these submissions amounted to a double module, I am satisfied that I have achieved highly in these and that, consequently, these will pull up my overall average mark.
I also received through the post both of the folders that I had produced and am very pleased with these. I have taken the last few days off to recover from the previous submission.
However, my plan of action is as follows:
1. To finish highlighting my research folder
2. To annotate the research folder - this may require me to scan in the magazine tares.
3. I must sort the research into primary and secondary files.
4. I must consider a way to format this blog, and consider printing this out while I have little work to concentrate on.
My next task is to consider any primary research venues which I have no yet visited, or which I should revisit to enhance research – for example Blackpool Pleasure Beach – I should coincide this with the launch of Nickelodeon land.
From this I will work on the promotional postcards, I will experiment with the speech bubbles for these, and also the background for the website. Once the postcards are completed I will send them off to Moo.com to be printed – it is likely that these will not be my final designs, however – allowing me to see these in a ‘final’ state- will allow me to make amendments which will enhance the overall theme and effect.
What next? I will ensure that research is completed by the end of next week – and the time log. This then gives me around four weeks to work on the promotional material.
I will also consider a press pack and how to make this 3D. I will update the blog once I have made further progress.
I also received through the post both of the folders that I had produced and am very pleased with these. I have taken the last few days off to recover from the previous submission.
However, my plan of action is as follows:
1. To finish highlighting my research folder
2. To annotate the research folder - this may require me to scan in the magazine tares.
3. I must sort the research into primary and secondary files.
4. I must consider a way to format this blog, and consider printing this out while I have little work to concentrate on.
My next task is to consider any primary research venues which I have no yet visited, or which I should revisit to enhance research – for example Blackpool Pleasure Beach – I should coincide this with the launch of Nickelodeon land.
From this I will work on the promotional postcards, I will experiment with the speech bubbles for these, and also the background for the website. Once the postcards are completed I will send them off to Moo.com to be printed – it is likely that these will not be my final designs, however – allowing me to see these in a ‘final’ state- will allow me to make amendments which will enhance the overall theme and effect.
What next? I will ensure that research is completed by the end of next week – and the time log. This then gives me around four weeks to work on the promotional material.
I will also consider a press pack and how to make this 3D. I will update the blog once I have made further progress.
Wednesday, 6 April 2011
Bibliography Progress
Today I have been through my entire research folder and included these documents in my bibliography. This successfully shows my wider reading throughout the course of my study – and not just the texts which have been directly quoted and referenced within my report.
I have been through this bibliography and ensured that the style I have used for referencing is consistent with the Harvard referencing style throughout. I have also remembered today that because my work is now 1.5 line spaced, this means that I now need to go back to my contents page and amend this.
I will see if there are any more articles for me to include within my research file and bibliography and this will help me in the long run, as it will mean that my research file is almost prepared for submission.
Today I set myself the ‘to do’ list with the following tasks included: bibliography, badges, vectors, print off report and read through, submit to be proofread, and summary.
Of these I still have the following tasks to complete: vectors, persuasion and summary (as well as the aforementioned contents page). I aim to have these tasks completed by the end of tonight so that tomorrow I can go back to look at my report formatting.
I must remember to print off my contents lists so that the report headings follow this. If I dedicate tomorrow to the report format, this means that when I get my report back on Friday (and literature review from Wiser), I will be able to simply insert this within the document. I may reconsider the size of the document, as at present it means that text is heavily segmented.
What next? Next I will look at the vectors PowerPoint and see if I can enhance this area of my report and I know this is an important section for inclusion. From this I will research summaries and what are to be included within these.
I will update this blog post later saying how many of these areas I have covered, and what I have left to do tomorrow.
I have been through this bibliography and ensured that the style I have used for referencing is consistent with the Harvard referencing style throughout. I have also remembered today that because my work is now 1.5 line spaced, this means that I now need to go back to my contents page and amend this.
I will see if there are any more articles for me to include within my research file and bibliography and this will help me in the long run, as it will mean that my research file is almost prepared for submission.
Today I set myself the ‘to do’ list with the following tasks included: bibliography, badges, vectors, print off report and read through, submit to be proofread, and summary.
Of these I still have the following tasks to complete: vectors, persuasion and summary (as well as the aforementioned contents page). I aim to have these tasks completed by the end of tonight so that tomorrow I can go back to look at my report formatting.
I must remember to print off my contents lists so that the report headings follow this. If I dedicate tomorrow to the report format, this means that when I get my report back on Friday (and literature review from Wiser), I will be able to simply insert this within the document. I may reconsider the size of the document, as at present it means that text is heavily segmented.
What next? Next I will look at the vectors PowerPoint and see if I can enhance this area of my report and I know this is an important section for inclusion. From this I will research summaries and what are to be included within these.
I will update this blog post later saying how many of these areas I have covered, and what I have left to do tomorrow.
Tuesday, 5 April 2011
Progress Update
Today I have been working on the ‘to do list’ which I created yesterday. Therefore I will talk you through my progress in relation to this list.
I have checked my emails and rectified the issues with the folders within which I am to present my research. I have now ordered two of these – a primary research folder and a secondary research folder. I have also today been considering how I am to present my time log and I will need to print this out too – would this be suitable for inclusion in a folder too? This area requires more thought.
II have put on my ‘to do’ list today that I must send over the images for the badges. These can be images from both the indoor and outdoor shoot. If I send them over to Carnegie badges then the workers will show me print screens as to what the final outcome will look like – I can then decide whether I wish to proceed with purchasing these badges. I will complete this task tonight before I leave the library.
I have 1.5 spaced my standard format of my essay, and then made sure that all of the text is within the appropriate pages, as opposed to going half over one page and onto the other. I also paginated my report so that the up to the methodology was not numbered, and then the rest of the document was page numbered.
Today I also printed off the marketing report check list and compared these items against the report that I have structured. I concluded that I have successfully included all necessary areas. However, a couple of areas did require more work – for example the vectors, persuasion section, and the measurement of the success of different promotional items. I will work on these either this evening or tomorrow, depending on the amount of time I have left tonight.
My most proud achievement of the day is that I have in fact finished the literature review. I feel that this is to a high standard and actually reflects the structure of an official literature review (the one included within this report is to be a more succinct and concise version due to time restraints). I have also given this to a Wiser advisor to read through and to check for grammar and punctuation. I must collect this on Friday at 12pm, so that is a date for the diary!
I have two key areas to concentrate on today: bibliography (to include all key texts within my research file) and glossary. I must look on the UCLan website for the glossary and ensure that I have integrated key terms within my work and that they are in the correct context. Once I have done this I will update the blog tonight with key tasks and objectives for tomorrow.
I have checked my emails and rectified the issues with the folders within which I am to present my research. I have now ordered two of these – a primary research folder and a secondary research folder. I have also today been considering how I am to present my time log and I will need to print this out too – would this be suitable for inclusion in a folder too? This area requires more thought.
II have put on my ‘to do’ list today that I must send over the images for the badges. These can be images from both the indoor and outdoor shoot. If I send them over to Carnegie badges then the workers will show me print screens as to what the final outcome will look like – I can then decide whether I wish to proceed with purchasing these badges. I will complete this task tonight before I leave the library.
I have 1.5 spaced my standard format of my essay, and then made sure that all of the text is within the appropriate pages, as opposed to going half over one page and onto the other. I also paginated my report so that the up to the methodology was not numbered, and then the rest of the document was page numbered.
Today I also printed off the marketing report check list and compared these items against the report that I have structured. I concluded that I have successfully included all necessary areas. However, a couple of areas did require more work – for example the vectors, persuasion section, and the measurement of the success of different promotional items. I will work on these either this evening or tomorrow, depending on the amount of time I have left tonight.
My most proud achievement of the day is that I have in fact finished the literature review. I feel that this is to a high standard and actually reflects the structure of an official literature review (the one included within this report is to be a more succinct and concise version due to time restraints). I have also given this to a Wiser advisor to read through and to check for grammar and punctuation. I must collect this on Friday at 12pm, so that is a date for the diary!
I have two key areas to concentrate on today: bibliography (to include all key texts within my research file) and glossary. I must look on the UCLan website for the glossary and ensure that I have integrated key terms within my work and that they are in the correct context. Once I have done this I will update the blog tonight with key tasks and objectives for tomorrow.
Monday, 4 April 2011
'To Do List' Check
Today has been a very very productive day so far and although I have only made minor changes to my report – grammatically and with regards to figure numbers and so on and so forth, I know that these minor changes will impact on the overall mark I will achieve by promoting a better-rounded project.
Yesterday I wrote myself a ‘to do’ list for today. These included:
Blog
Order folder
Order badges
Marketing report checklist
Read and amend essay
Literature review
References
At present I am about half way through this list. I have ordered the A4 folder which my secondary research will be placed in. The majority of my primary research, for example visits to places have been included within A3 research files, however research such as printouts from articles online and magazine tares have are A4 scale and therefore should be included within the A4 research files which I have purchased.
Once this report has been handed in, I have so much more research to both print off and update – research is one of my strongest areas, therefore I should ensure that this is executed to the best of my ability, as I know my final outcomes will be weaker, and the research files may pull up the weaker area.
I have read through and amended my essay today, ensuring that all figure numbers etc are correct and that the references in text also correspond with the reference list –I usually work on this just before submission, so I am glad that this is out of the way.
Today in lesson I received the Literature Review hand out, therefore I will be able to start working on this immediately. Once I have finished this I will print this off tomorrow morning and take it to a Wiser advisor to read through. This will benefit me and it will ‘force’ me to get on with this tonight, so that I have something to show for my work tomorrow – so that I can get help and guidance on it, and so that I can be content that it is completed and within my report.
I have also sent my work to Joanna Heaton to look through, and invite her to consider any amendments which I must make.
What next? I will start working on the literature review now. Once this is completed I will put this to one side and prepare to print this tomorrow morning. I will then look through my research file and see if there is any information which can be included within my report.
Yesterday I wrote myself a ‘to do’ list for today. These included:
Blog
Order folder
Order badges
Marketing report checklist
Read and amend essay
Literature review
References
At present I am about half way through this list. I have ordered the A4 folder which my secondary research will be placed in. The majority of my primary research, for example visits to places have been included within A3 research files, however research such as printouts from articles online and magazine tares have are A4 scale and therefore should be included within the A4 research files which I have purchased.
Once this report has been handed in, I have so much more research to both print off and update – research is one of my strongest areas, therefore I should ensure that this is executed to the best of my ability, as I know my final outcomes will be weaker, and the research files may pull up the weaker area.
I have read through and amended my essay today, ensuring that all figure numbers etc are correct and that the references in text also correspond with the reference list –I usually work on this just before submission, so I am glad that this is out of the way.
Today in lesson I received the Literature Review hand out, therefore I will be able to start working on this immediately. Once I have finished this I will print this off tomorrow morning and take it to a Wiser advisor to read through. This will benefit me and it will ‘force’ me to get on with this tonight, so that I have something to show for my work tomorrow – so that I can get help and guidance on it, and so that I can be content that it is completed and within my report.
I have also sent my work to Joanna Heaton to look through, and invite her to consider any amendments which I must make.
What next? I will start working on the literature review now. Once this is completed I will put this to one side and prepare to print this tomorrow morning. I will then look through my research file and see if there is any information which can be included within my report.
Sunday, 3 April 2011
The Brief: Assessment Requirements and Process
I read through the assessment requirements and process. From reading this I was a little confused. The brief stated that I was required to produce a draft submission of layout ideas. This was detailed as a plan/layouts/mock-up of the proposed format and style of the presentation. I will enquire about this to Paz tomorrow, as this is something which I must understand in order to satisfy the criterion for submission.
Other than this I must submit the final reports on Monday 11th April at 10am. I must submit two copies of these, including the digital report. I noted the word count which says 8-10k maximum, therefore I must ensure that I do not massively exceed this, and if I do I will have to be granted permission to do so.
Both of these reports must include a strong visual element – this is something which I feel my report does successfully so far. The second copy need only be in black and white – this is the copy I can take home at the end of the semester.
Within the report submission must be examples of questionnaires/summaries of information, emails, interview details, specific examples such as illustrations and visual. I should consider using the appendices for some of these - I have already made great use of the appendix.
I must paginate the report and use 1.5 line space setting – tomorrow I will double check whether this also applied to the digital submission, as this would increase the page numbers and limit the amount of text per page, meaning that I would have to rework my format.
The word count must be included and the document must be easy to navigate.
Finally, I studied the criteria for assessment and noticed that the written content is worth 70% of the overall submission. The written content must reflect the in-depth research and must include an introduction, structure, fluently written text, appropriate information, conclusion, bibliography, literature review and references.
The visual content is worth a must lower percentage of 30%. However, this is still a large enough percentage to significantly alter the grade achieved.
What next? I am just about to proofread the report again.
Other than this I must submit the final reports on Monday 11th April at 10am. I must submit two copies of these, including the digital report. I noted the word count which says 8-10k maximum, therefore I must ensure that I do not massively exceed this, and if I do I will have to be granted permission to do so.
Both of these reports must include a strong visual element – this is something which I feel my report does successfully so far. The second copy need only be in black and white – this is the copy I can take home at the end of the semester.
Within the report submission must be examples of questionnaires/summaries of information, emails, interview details, specific examples such as illustrations and visual. I should consider using the appendices for some of these - I have already made great use of the appendix.
I must paginate the report and use 1.5 line space setting – tomorrow I will double check whether this also applied to the digital submission, as this would increase the page numbers and limit the amount of text per page, meaning that I would have to rework my format.
The word count must be included and the document must be easy to navigate.
Finally, I studied the criteria for assessment and noticed that the written content is worth 70% of the overall submission. The written content must reflect the in-depth research and must include an introduction, structure, fluently written text, appropriate information, conclusion, bibliography, literature review and references.
The visual content is worth a must lower percentage of 30%. However, this is still a large enough percentage to significantly alter the grade achieved.
What next? I am just about to proofread the report again.
The Brief: Learning Outcomes
In order to monitor how successful I have been in this project, I shall compare my knowledge and current level of progress to the learning outcomes.
These state that on completion of this module, I should have described a thorough range of research strategies and methodologies. I must also develop an awareness of the role and importance of trend and forecasting information in relation to fashion brands and their development.
I should also allow and encourage investigation into a wide range of research methodologies in order to inform both the project and personal development. On top of this, I must fully integrate the use of digital media which demonstrates a level of expertise across a wide range of creative applications.
By doing the above I will satisfy the learning outcome of demonstrating a professional approach in relation to the presentation of both written and visual work. Moreover, along the way I will have analysed research information in order to draw conclusions and make informed decisions which will facilitate with the development of further investigative studies.
The ultimate objective is to apply a level of written expertise across a wide spectrum of academic and professional situations/solutions.
If I compare these learning outcomes to what I feel that I have achieved, I can honestly say that I think I am well on track with producing a successful marketing report.
What next? In my next blog post I will discuss the assessment requirements and process in order to ensure that I have covered all areas of the brief.
These state that on completion of this module, I should have described a thorough range of research strategies and methodologies. I must also develop an awareness of the role and importance of trend and forecasting information in relation to fashion brands and their development.
I should also allow and encourage investigation into a wide range of research methodologies in order to inform both the project and personal development. On top of this, I must fully integrate the use of digital media which demonstrates a level of expertise across a wide range of creative applications.
By doing the above I will satisfy the learning outcome of demonstrating a professional approach in relation to the presentation of both written and visual work. Moreover, along the way I will have analysed research information in order to draw conclusions and make informed decisions which will facilitate with the development of further investigative studies.
The ultimate objective is to apply a level of written expertise across a wide spectrum of academic and professional situations/solutions.
If I compare these learning outcomes to what I feel that I have achieved, I can honestly say that I think I am well on track with producing a successful marketing report.
What next? In my next blog post I will discuss the assessment requirements and process in order to ensure that I have covered all areas of the brief.
The Brief: Introduction
The ‘written and visual’ report should be based on my own research, development and final solutions. The brief states that the report should include:
• In-depth research
• Introduction
• Customer and brand profiles
• Market segmentation
• SMART objectives
• Vectors
• Budget details
• Rationale
• 6 P’s
• Well-informed conclusion
In order to present this in the most informative way possible, visual imagery should be used to illustrate points discussed within the written work. I have achieved this, using figures and illustrations to expand on discussions or to present evidence.
Time management is key to this – one way which my report shows how well I have managed time is because the details in my references, for example “accessed”, state the date that I first accessed the website, and in some cases this was many months ago, showing the span of my research.
With regards to the references, the brief states that these must be correctly formatted and relevant.
The brief emphasises that special attention should be paid to the methodology. It also stresses the importance of including marketing objectives, vectors and a literature review.
Ultimately, a bibliography should be included to show evidence of background reading. However, in my instance I will have to enquire as to what the difference is between references and a bibliography, and consequently I may need to change the title of this section of text.
I will enquire as to whether a bibliography – simply stating the different publications and book titles etc, should be included as well as – or instead of references.
I am a little concerned as I have read that creative and digital formats must be discussed as a proposal and approved before they are produced for the final submission – this is something I have been a little concerned about as I know my strength is writing and that my weakness is format.
In order to ensure that my format is on track – or even acceptable, I will send over my creatively formatted report to course leaders and also the proofreader tonight. Tonight I am also due to send Joanna Heaton, organiser of the LSF, a copy of my report and promotional items.
• In-depth research
• Introduction
• Customer and brand profiles
• Market segmentation
• SMART objectives
• Vectors
• Budget details
• Rationale
• 6 P’s
• Well-informed conclusion
In order to present this in the most informative way possible, visual imagery should be used to illustrate points discussed within the written work. I have achieved this, using figures and illustrations to expand on discussions or to present evidence.
Time management is key to this – one way which my report shows how well I have managed time is because the details in my references, for example “accessed”, state the date that I first accessed the website, and in some cases this was many months ago, showing the span of my research.
With regards to the references, the brief states that these must be correctly formatted and relevant.
The brief emphasises that special attention should be paid to the methodology. It also stresses the importance of including marketing objectives, vectors and a literature review.
Ultimately, a bibliography should be included to show evidence of background reading. However, in my instance I will have to enquire as to what the difference is between references and a bibliography, and consequently I may need to change the title of this section of text.
I will enquire as to whether a bibliography – simply stating the different publications and book titles etc, should be included as well as – or instead of references.
I am a little concerned as I have read that creative and digital formats must be discussed as a proposal and approved before they are produced for the final submission – this is something I have been a little concerned about as I know my strength is writing and that my weakness is format.
In order to ensure that my format is on track – or even acceptable, I will send over my creatively formatted report to course leaders and also the proofreader tonight. Tonight I am also due to send Joanna Heaton, organiser of the LSF, a copy of my report and promotional items.
The Brief: Aims
By reflecting at the brief, I am able to tell whether my report – so far – is meeting the learning objectives and desired outcomes. If it is not, then this gives me ample time to attempt to rectify these troubles.
For example, within my report I have shown evidence of advanced research methodology. However, I could enhance this through the use of magazines, blogs, ezines and ebooks as previously discussed, providing more modern sources and a wider variety of research consumption channels.
The brief also requires that I show expertise in written work – I feel I have achieved this as so far the course leader has read through my work, Wiser has read through a version of the marketing report, and I have also had the report proofread externally by a professional freelancer, in order to ensure that there are no mistakes – this is on top of friends and family.
A further aim on the brief is that I must demonstrate through both written and visual work an in-depth understanding of marketing a fashion/lifestyle final campaign. So far I feel that I have achieved this more through the written communication than the visual, however the visual does satisfy this criterion as I have images from Porter’s Five Forces, Teboul’s Service Triangle and a visual demonstrating the benchmarking of the Lancashire Science Festival, amongst others.
Finally, the aims within the brief state that I must display a professional approach in the visual, written and digital presentation. In order to do so I will use images taken professionally with my characters to narrate the digital submission, for example using speech bubbles. However, for the standard ‘black and white’ version of the submission I will make good use of white space, use font formatting appropriately, for example bold and italics for headlines and referencing etc. I will also use text alignment correctly and adhere to the noted line spacing.
What next? My next blog entry will discuss the introduction on the brief and how I have adhered to this/how I could better adhere to it.
For example, within my report I have shown evidence of advanced research methodology. However, I could enhance this through the use of magazines, blogs, ezines and ebooks as previously discussed, providing more modern sources and a wider variety of research consumption channels.
The brief also requires that I show expertise in written work – I feel I have achieved this as so far the course leader has read through my work, Wiser has read through a version of the marketing report, and I have also had the report proofread externally by a professional freelancer, in order to ensure that there are no mistakes – this is on top of friends and family.
A further aim on the brief is that I must demonstrate through both written and visual work an in-depth understanding of marketing a fashion/lifestyle final campaign. So far I feel that I have achieved this more through the written communication than the visual, however the visual does satisfy this criterion as I have images from Porter’s Five Forces, Teboul’s Service Triangle and a visual demonstrating the benchmarking of the Lancashire Science Festival, amongst others.
Finally, the aims within the brief state that I must display a professional approach in the visual, written and digital presentation. In order to do so I will use images taken professionally with my characters to narrate the digital submission, for example using speech bubbles. However, for the standard ‘black and white’ version of the submission I will make good use of white space, use font formatting appropriately, for example bold and italics for headlines and referencing etc. I will also use text alignment correctly and adhere to the noted line spacing.
What next? My next blog entry will discuss the introduction on the brief and how I have adhered to this/how I could better adhere to it.
Going Back To The Brief
This last week I have been working on ensuring that my report matches the learning objectives, in order to achieve the highest possible grade. I am aware that this report is worth a double module, consequently I should consider how this may pull up my grade if I am on the cusp of a 2:1 / first.
Today I have been through my report and ensured that the numbers correspond with the appendix, and I have also added figure numbers. Once I have written this blog entry, I will go back to the report and ensure that the reference list is all correct, in the respect that there should be no other references which are not in the list, or vice versa.
I will then read through my report and attempt to finish the sections which I have not yet completed, including the vectors section and a draft of the literature review.
So far my word count is just under 11,000 this is where I aim to keep this word count, therefore I should not go above or below this significantly, allowing myself the standard 10% leeway either way.
Also today I will ensure that the format of my report matches the criterion of the brief, for example it must be paginated, and it must also be 1.5 line spacing. Once I have ensured all is correct, I can move on to creatively formatting my report.
However, I am also aware that I must ensure that all information contained within my report is as relevant to the ‘here and now’ as possible. Consequently, I will go through my report with my research file and make sure I have included as much of the information, from as vast a variety of sources as possible.
The references list at the back of the report is segmented into different categories such as “books”, “journals” etc. The two categories which I know I am limited in is journals, and also magazines – which I have not started a category yet.
I have a variety of articles extracted from magazines from the Toy Fair and Spring Fair which I could use further within my report. Therefore I will dedicate tomorrow to reworking my report, and making it as informative as possible.
Today I have been through my report and ensured that the numbers correspond with the appendix, and I have also added figure numbers. Once I have written this blog entry, I will go back to the report and ensure that the reference list is all correct, in the respect that there should be no other references which are not in the list, or vice versa.
I will then read through my report and attempt to finish the sections which I have not yet completed, including the vectors section and a draft of the literature review.
So far my word count is just under 11,000 this is where I aim to keep this word count, therefore I should not go above or below this significantly, allowing myself the standard 10% leeway either way.
Also today I will ensure that the format of my report matches the criterion of the brief, for example it must be paginated, and it must also be 1.5 line spacing. Once I have ensured all is correct, I can move on to creatively formatting my report.
However, I am also aware that I must ensure that all information contained within my report is as relevant to the ‘here and now’ as possible. Consequently, I will go through my report with my research file and make sure I have included as much of the information, from as vast a variety of sources as possible.
The references list at the back of the report is segmented into different categories such as “books”, “journals” etc. The two categories which I know I am limited in is journals, and also magazines – which I have not started a category yet.
I have a variety of articles extracted from magazines from the Toy Fair and Spring Fair which I could use further within my report. Therefore I will dedicate tomorrow to reworking my report, and making it as informative as possible.
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