This is a homework assignment for a Publications Course.

1. Top 10Public Relations Publications Casey Sherwin

2. What did I learn? Throughout this semester I have learned the process of creating complex publications that have a purpose. That purpose may simply be awareness, or might be more complicated and be intended to achieve economic gains. Anyway you look at it graphic design is a useful tool and the following slides will briefly describe what was learned.

3. Contrast The use of contrast throughout publications. After reading the book “The Non-Designer’s Design Book,” by author Robin Williams I found: “The idea behind contrast is to avoid elements on the page that are merely similar. If the elements [...] are not the same, then make them very different.” The simple use of contrasting images, shapes, colors, and sizes makes for much more interesting publications.

4. Repetition Repeating common visual elements of the publication provide a uniform look that is very pleasing to the eye.

5. Alignment Aligning your images and text appropriately in order to keep the page looking neat and organized. Also this helps to reduce stress on the eye. The words you are Reading Are aligned for your convenience!

6. Proximity According to Robin Williams: “Items relating to each other should be grouped close together. When several items are in close proximity to each other, they become one visual unit rather than several separate units.” Keep important aspects of your document together so they can be easily located when necessary.

7. Typography Typography can be an effective tool if used properly. An artist can spend all their time creating a radiant, eye catching design, but if the publication doesn't capture the attention of the intended audience than it is useless. This is when selecting certain fonts, type sizes, and type designs can help turn an average publication into a remarkable one that proves effective in the end. (tough font to read huh, don’t use these please)

8. Photograph Selection The lesson focuses on how to use the correct image for the right reasons. Planning your selections around the importance of lighting, layering, and composition should be your ultimate goal.

9. InDesign Adobe InDesign is the production software we used throughout the semester. The software is a little tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it you can create just about anything. Business cards, memos, brochures, flyers, posters… http://www.adobe.com/products/indesign/

10. Time is Money There is no greater lesson that can be learned than this, if you are planning on making a profit through the use of your publications. Take the time to focus on all aspects of your design, do research, and then work hard to create a design that not only you are happy with but your public is in love with!

11. Finally, Ask Questions! The most important thing that I learned during my time in Public Relations Publications is, never hesitate to ask questions if you are lost. This is the only way you can learn something you don’t understand. It is the only way you can teach yourself right from wrong. ASK QUESTIONS PEOPLE!!!

12. Thank you, Dr. Nixon Dr. Nixon it has been a pleasure and I appreciate all your hard work. I have learned a lot from you and will go forward with my knowledge, hopeful to do great things! Sincerely, Casey Sherwin