Francis: Reading One

One description that really struck me in the opening chapter of the reading, Advertising by Design, was how the author described advertisement (or “ad”). Advertisement is “a specific message constructed to inform, persuade, promote, provoke, or motivate people on behalf of a brand or group.” Since I work as a graphic designer at the Ray Meyer Fitness and Recreation Center and “advertise” their programs and events, I always remember to inform the audience and promote the event or program. However, I forget to try to persuade, provoke, motivate, or “call them to action.” It was refreshing to be reminded by this book that you need to focus on all aspects in order for an advertisement to be truly effective.

Product placement, later brought up in the chapter, was another effective way of advertising that I have forgotten about. Below is an image of Lady Gaga in her music video “Telephone” that I found was a perfect example for me since none was given in the book.

Still being an avid Lady Gaga fan from the very beginning, I even was influenced by Coca-Cola’s product placement of Diet Coke in one of my favorite artist’s music videos of all time. I remember watching the music in high school and desperately wanting a Diet Coke because it was associated with Lady Gaga. It is funny to realize the effectiveness of product placement after it has grasped a hold of you.

In Chapter Two, it was interesting to go through the six phases of a project. I especially found the section on “Creative Briefs” to be interesting because I have never heard of that concept before, which is something I found would be helpful in the future. The next two chapters reminded me of important concepts that I have learned in previous graphic design classes. However, it was stimulating to read them in a different context, in regards to advertising.