Daniel Francavilla

Designer, Entrepreneur, Activist

Bio + Resume
Tweeting
Websites + Organizations
Blog on DesignCharityLife.com
Today on DanielDaily.ca
iPhone Photos
Photography
Videos + Favourites
Where I've Been
Daniel Design
Designing for Good
Lifestyle Kick
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Profile
- Daniel Francavilla
  
  Designer, Entrepreneur, Activist
  
  Graphic Design | Toronto, Canada Area, CA
  
  Summary
  
  Daniel Francavilla is a Designer, Entrepreneur and Activist. He is a recipient of the Ontario Junior Citizen of the Year Award and the City of Brampton’s Humanitarian Award.
  
  Daniel provides Graphic Design, Communications and Online services through Now Creative Group (the evolution of Daniel Design). Through Now Digital Network, he also creates and manages a network of online media properties.
  
  After traveling to developing countries, Daniel founded ACCESS to help children in the developing world receive an education and to empower local youth to become leaders.
  
  Daniel has written articles for the Toronto Star Global Voices, maintains a blog at DesignCharityLife.com, and has been featured in several publications. He is the founder of Speak Up for Change, a youth blog program about activism and social change. Daniel is also the Editor of Lifestyle Kick, an online publication on healthy living, featuring motivation and advice from everyday people, founded as part of Now Digital Network.
  
  Daniel studied Graphic Design at OCAD University, and is now studying Digital Media and Communications at the University of Toronto. He is interested in opportunities in the design, communications, education, and non-profit sectors.
  
  Specialties: Graphic Design, Website Design, Communications, Marketing, Writing, Social Networking, Brand Integration, Public Speaking, Fundraising
  
  Experience
  - Dec 2012 - Present
    Social Media Manager / ShareLife
  - Dec 2012 - Present
    Founder / Now Digital Network
  - Aug 2012 - Present
    Editor-in-Chief / Lifestyle Kick
  - Jul 2006 - Present
    Creative Director / Now Creative Group
  - Jan 2006 - Present
    President / ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education, Inc.
  Education
  - 2012 - 2014
    
    University of Toronto
  - 2008 - 2012
    
    Ontario College of Art and Design
  Additional Information
  - Honors:
    
    Humanitarian Award - Citizens Awards (2009) City of Brampton Ontario Junior Citizen of the Year Award (2007) Ontario Community Newspapers Association
Tweets

Tweets

Profile
- RT @gretchromin: My cards are in @NowCreates http://t.co/f5MImATHwZ
  
  Jun 19, 13 from web Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- Top Shared Links and News of Today is out! http://t.co/2EsCSNupu5 ▸ Top stories today via @JamesBigg @OCAD @adii
  
  Jun 19, 13 from Paper.li Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- Insanely Sunny today (at Honest Ed’s) http://t.co/ciCZHbDkkw
  
  Jun 19, 13 from Google Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- The Beer Store's new Pilot Stores are supposed to invite us to Meet Beer: http://t.co/RrKefEuYJT @MyBeerStore #BeerStore
  
  Jun 19, 13 from Buffer Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- RT @LifestyleKick: 5 Ways to Reduce Stress at the Office http://t.co/8sY1tFy9Xr
  
  Jun 19, 13 from Twitter for iPhone Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- Oh, you're tired? http://t.co/06ihUl4oJN
  
  Jun 19, 13 from Buffer Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- The "art of communicating with your customers and prospects without selling." http://t.co/qiIQXQdfWM #ContentMarketing
  
  Jun 19, 13 from Buffer Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- So you want to be a Graphic Designer? http://t.co/Vd2335goLg
  
  Jun 19, 13 from Google Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- What motivates you? http://t.co/pmyOixFASY
  
  Jun 19, 13 from Buffer Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- 5 Ways to Reduce Stress at the Office http://t.co/ZnS3o0qB9y via @LifestyleKick
  
  Jun 19, 13 from Google Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- Chronic sleep deprivation is costing American companies $63 Billion annually — tired employees are way less effective http://t.co/R2ymvBRawD
  
  Jun 19, 13 from Buffer Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- 5 Cent Cokes http://t.co/X9vgJk0f8K
  
  Jun 18, 13 from Google Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- Shotgun hundreds of years old, on sale for $5000 (at Gold &... http://t.co/Z40ySJkO8c
  
  Jun 18, 13 from Google Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- RT @nowdigitalnet: Are you worried about Cell Phone Towers in your community? More about this issue on @GetHealthyTO here: http://t.co/iCWB…
  
  Jun 18, 13 from Twitter for iPhone Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- Why innovation is about behavior, not stuff: http://t.co/6P6vI2D02Z
  
  Jun 18, 13 from Buffer Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- The iconic notebook brand, @Moleskine, updated its logo and designed a new monogram graphic: http://t.co/41o60spbcb
  
  Jun 18, 13 from Buffer Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- RT @foodandwater: Bottled water is one of the biggest consumer scams in history. It's no cleaner or safer than tap water. #sharedvalue @Nes…
  
  Jun 18, 13 from web Reply, Retweet, Favorite
- RT @NowCreates: Design matters like never before. We choose to use it to help repair the world, rather than inventing deceptions. http://t.…
  
  Jun 18, 13 from Twitter for iPhone Reply, Retweet, Favorite
Websites + Organizations

Websites + Organizations
- Blog + Website
  designcharitylife.com
  
  Daniel Design
  Graphic + Web Design, Online Communication
  danieldesign.ca
  
  Now Digital Network
  Digital, Media and Design
  nowdigitalnetwork.com
  
  Academic Portfolio
  Graphic Design, Thesis, Liberal Studies
  atdesignschool.com
  
  ACCESS
  Educate. Empower. Inspire.
  accesscharity.ca
  
  Speak Up for Change
  Activism + Social Change Blog
  speakupforchange.ca
Posts

Posts

Feed
- Building Real Relationships: What Facebook Can Do for People and Brands
  
  May 15, 13
  
  What would you expect from a presentation by Facebook? A product launch, a sales pitch, a feature tutorial? The Group Director of Global Marketing Solutions at Facebook Canada, Steve Irvine, gave an impressive keynote at digital media conference Canada 3.0, covering neither of those things. Steve manages a team focused on building trusted advisory relationships with [...]
- Digital Experiences Competing with the Real World
  
  May 15, 13
  
  Should digital experiences should stop competing with the “real world”? As part of Canada’s annual digital media conference, Canada 3.0, a workshop answered this question with “No”. As digital distribution disrupts media everywhere, audiences seek out concepts like ‘authenticity’ and less commodified ‘experiences’. Trends are changing, people are concerned, and there are concepts that use [...]
- The World’s Cheapest Tablet to Kickstart Education in Emerging Markets
  
  May 14, 13
  
  DataWind is Disrupting Education in Emerging Markets with the World’s Cheapest Tablet The CEO of Datawind Ltd., Suneet Singh Tuli, spoke about how his company is disrupting Education in emerging markets by creating the world’s least-expensive Tablet, at this year’s Canada 3.0 Digital Media Conference in Toronto. DataWind is a great success story of a Canadian company [...]
- Shop Your Way Online
  
  Apr 02, 13
  
  Do we need another major online shopping space? I came across Shop Your Way, a site created by Sears Holdings Inc. who owns Sears (the company has over 2,600 full-line and specialty retail stores in USA and Canada including Kmart). The site is described by the company as a social shopping experience where members have the ability to earn points [...]
- Career Questions: Graphic Designer, Web Designer, Social Media Manager
  
  Mar 19, 13
  
  Having been graduated from university since spring 2012, it’s odd to be reflective on my “career” already. But recently a student interviewed me for an assignment, and since it was typed out, the full Q&A is shared here. Q1: As a teenager, what did you think your career/job would be as an adult? When younger, [...]
- Saving a City via Twitter: Newark Mayor Cory Booker’s 5 Rules
  
  Mar 18, 13
  
  Mayor Cory Booker of Newark, New Jersey has over 1.3 million Twitter followers – more than his city’s population. He has been described as “charismatic and social network savvy”, and is extremely active on Twitter. But Booker isn’t tweeting as an after-work social activity – he’s growing his city, building community, making connections, and helping [...]
- We have a new Pope, Twitter says
  
  Mar 15, 13
  
  While Conclave was going on, tens of thousands of people waited outside the Vatican awaiting a decision from the Cardinals: Who will be the next Pope? In the past, Conclaves have lasted anywhere from a day to a few days to weeks – the Cardinals are not allowed to leave until the Pope has been [...]
- Storytelling: Why it Matters in Marketing
  
  Mar 08, 13
  
  Mark Evans spoke about Storytelling in Marketing at the National Business and Technology Conference. His talk focused on the role of storytelling in molding the foundational marketing activities from core messaging to strategies and content for startups and entrepreneurs. “Storytelling is by far the most underrated skill in business.” Storytelling plays an important part in everything a startup [...]
- Customer Service in a Social World
  
  Mar 08, 13
  
  The customer service world has changed drastically in the last decade, with social media becoming mainstream. Yet it has not adapted fully to the new online communication methods many users and stakeholders relay on today. I have had enough experiences trying to get help or answers from certain companies to know this. Customer Service in [...]
- Networking: The Power of Creating Connection
  
  Mar 08, 13
  
  The Shaping Leaders session on Networking and Personal Branding at the National Business and Technology Conference was hosted by Bobby Umar, P.Eng, MBA, the President of Raeallan, a transformational leadership and speaking company. Bobby discussed the importance, the why, and the how of networking. He spoke about – and made participants try – proven strategies and tactics, [...]
Posts

Posts

Audio

Profile
- Jun 19, 13
  
  Insanely Sunny today (at Honest Ed’s)
- Jun 19, 13
  
  So you want to be a Graphic Designer?
- Jun 18, 13
  
  5 Cent Cokes
- Jun 18, 13
  
  Shotgun hundreds of years old, on sale for $5000 (at Gold & Silver Pawn Stars Shop)
- When you find an idea that you just can’t stop thinking about, that’s probably a good one to pursue.
  
  Jun 18, 13
  
  Josh James
- Jun 18, 13
  
  Quality Mac n Cheese by @GordonRamsay (at Gordon Ramsay Steak)
- Where Should I Share This Information?
  
  Jun 17, 13
  
  Curious about the boring/interesting quadrants and their sharing implications?
  
  from adulting
- Should you mention that you're tired?
  
  Jun 16, 13
- Jun 16, 13
  
  We got driven to and from the range in an army vehicle by a US veteran who served in Afghanistan. (at Battlefield Vegas)
- Jun 16, 13
  
  Sunny street party (at Fremont Street)
- Jun 16, 13
  
  Last meal in Vegas was at Gordon Ramsay’s steak restaurant, literally called Gordon Ramsay Steak.
- Jun 15, 13
  
  Last night’s full night in Vegas. (at TAO Nightclub)
- Let people leave first.
  
  Jun 15, 13
  
  Advice from the Adulting blog:
  
  This is pretty simple but really seems to confound some folks.
  
  If you wish to enter a subway car, an elevator, a bus, an alcove - whatever small but key space - let those who wish to leave that same space do it first.
  
  You see, human beings have mass, and take up space in the universe….
- Jun 15, 13
  
  Mario Batali’s Restaurant in Vegas. Awesome branding (and food). (at Carnevino)
- Jun 15, 13
  
  The #Flamingo on #LasVegas Boulevard (at Flamingo Las Vegas Hotel & Casino)
- Jun 14, 13
  
  Reflection in an old candy machine in line to be restored (at Rick’s Restorations)
- Jun 14, 13
  
  #Retro #Vegas (at Old Las Vegas)
- Jun 14, 13
  
  “If you’re gonna be original, you can count on being copied.”
- Jun 14, 13
  
  Silver dollars. Worth more than non-silver dollars. (at Gold & Silver Pawn Stars Shop)
- Jun 14, 13
  
  A shot on the really old film camera @nineteenphoto bought.
Photos

Photos

Profile

" data-title="Insanely #sunny in #Toronto today." data-link=""> " data-title="Our new cards are here now! #NowCreativeGroup" data-link=""> " data-title="" data-link=""> " data-title="Shotgun hundreds of years old, on sale for $5000" data-link=""> " data-title="" data-link=""> " data-title="For all the Leafs tickets, early morning drives, amazing family trips, cool restaurants, scheduling and business advice, soccer coaching, math homework help and so much more, thanks Dad and Happy Father's Day." data-link=""> " data-title="We got driven to and from the range in an army vehicle by a US veteran who served in Afghanistan." data-link=""> " data-title="" data-link=""> " data-title="Last meal in Vegas was at Gordon Ramsay's steak restaurant. The crazy light in middle is based on Ramsay's hand movements while cooking for this menu. Nice place, even for a guy who didn't order steak." data-link=""> " data-title="Last night's full night in #Vegas at #TAO." data-link=""> " data-title="" data-link=""> " data-title="The #Flamingo on #LasVegas Boulevard" data-link=""> " data-title="Reflection in an old candy machine in line to be restored" data-link=""> " data-title="#Retro #Vegas #Vintage #OldLasVegas #OldVegas #Stratosphere" data-link=""> " data-title="" data-link=""> " data-title="" data-link=""> " data-title="A shot on the really old film camera @nineteenphoto bought." data-link=""> " data-title="" data-link=""> " data-title="#American #Postage #Vintage in #Vegas at #SinCity #Pickers" data-link=""> " data-title="#Vintage #CocaCola in #Vegas at #Ricks #Restorations" data-link="">
Photos

Photos

Profile

" data-title="Sans serif." data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/8289042399/"> " data-title="The Hunger Games Book Cover Design" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/7037450357/"> " data-title="The Hunger Games Book Cover Design" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/7037448893/"> " data-title="The Hunger Games Book Cover Design" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/7037446609/"> " data-title="The Hunger Games Book Cover Re-Design" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/6891460618/"> " data-title="The Hunger Games Book Cover Design" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/6891357172/"> " data-title="The Hunger Games Book Cover Design" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/6891350202/"> " data-title="Well Kerned." data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/6053880534/"> " data-title="Alberta Love" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/6020064818/"> " data-title="Joanna Soaring" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5960271862/"> " data-title="Joanna Pondering" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5960271830/"> " data-title="Tortellini with Alfredo Sauce, Penne with Tomato Sauce" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5726930694/"> " data-title="Penne with Tomato Sauce, Tortellini with Alfredo Sauce" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5726372399/"> " data-title="Chicken, Peppers, Rice" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5715501694/"> " data-title="Steak with Bacon and Salad" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5715501112/"> " data-title="Warm, Creamy Cheese" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5715500584/"> " data-title="Escargot" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5715499746/"> " data-title="Easter Bread with Eggs" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5652010716/"> " data-title="Canoli" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5652010232/"> " data-title="Spinach Linguini" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5652009490/"> " data-title="Tomato and Mozzarella" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5652009106/"> " data-title="Mashed Sweet Potatoes" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5652008788/"> " data-title="Tomato and Mozzarella" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5652007008/"> " data-title="Tomato and Mozzarella" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5652006256/"> " data-title="Spinach Linguini" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5651443825/"> " data-title="Shrimp" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5651442423/"> " data-title="Veal Cutlets" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5651441749/"> " data-title="Chicken Breast" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5651441409/"> " data-title="Bruschetta" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5651439837/"> " data-title="Painted and detailed on face" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5372075808/"> " data-title="Red, red, red" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5372074178/"> " data-title="Carving the details" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5372073416/"> " data-title="Plasticine letters placed" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5372071474/"> " data-title="Final" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5372066240/"> " data-title="Painted and detailed" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5371469207/"> " data-title="Plasticine letters placed" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5371466575/"> " data-title="Final" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5371464719/"> " data-title="Final" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5371463493/"> " data-title="Final" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/5371462119/"> " data-title="Photography Assignment 3 - Montage" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/4269499156/"> " data-title="Photography Assignment 1 - Digital Imaging Capture" data-link="http://www.flickr.com/10915265@N07/4268758773/">
Uploads

Uploads

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Profile

Feb 04, 13" data-title="Ho Hey - The Lumineers - Cover Rehearsal"> Sep 28, 12" data-title="KNAAN Performing at We Day 2012"> Aug 29, 12" data-title="Koukla the Pomeranian"> Aug 03, 12" data-title="Taco Man"> Jul 10, 12" data-title="OCAD University Convocation 2012 Applause"> Jul 10, 12" data-title="Nonno's Love the Lottery"> Jun 02, 12" data-title="Muskoka Forest"> May 26, 12" data-title="Yonge Dundas Square"> Apr 11, 12" data-title="Designing for Good: Advice from Designers and Activists"> Apr 07, 12" data-title="Designing for Good: Advice from Jay Wall"> Mar 10, 12" data-title="Cats Dancing and Waving"> Mar 06, 12" data-title="Designing for Good: Preview"> Nov 27, 11" data-title="Inspire Creativity - Typography Stop-Motion Film"> Nov 18, 11" data-title="Acoustic Performance of "Summer Skies" by Broken Silence"> Nov 15, 11" data-title="LMFAO Party Rock - Live in Toronto"> Feb 02, 11" data-title="Philo Sophia - Mapping through the Eyes of a Flâneur"> Nov 10, 10" data-title="Cake Boss Buddy at Indigo Toronto"> Sep 29, 10" data-title="Toronto Mayor Candidates Arts Debate Conclusion"> Mar 08, 10" data-title="OCAD Student Spaces Video 2"> Mar 08, 10" data-title="Reclaim OCAD Student Spaces 1"> Apr 01, 09" data-title="weARTtoronto @ OCAD April 3, 2009 | Promo Video"> Mar 04, 09" data-title="Experience Design - Interaction - Supermarket Automated Checkout"> Dec 18, 08" data-title="Christmas: Give from the Heart"> Mar 27, 08" data-title="Daniel Francavilla - Ontario Junior Citizen of the Year 2008 - Rogers TV First Local News"> Feb 19, 08" data-title="Roses for Veronica - Claymation"> Oct 27, 07" data-title="Recycle - Green Force Commercial"> Aug 06, 07" data-title="Broken Silence Band at Rose Theatre - Trailer"> Jun 20, 07" data-title="DYTV Intro - Final Episode 2007 - d'Youville">

May 22, 12" data-title="Dr. Phil - "I eat 30,000 calories a day!!""> Mar 26, 13" data-title="Brampton's New Economic Brand - b...more"> Jul 08, 09" data-title="Illy Metodo Iperespresso"> Feb 20, 12" data-title="The presidents photographer PART 1"> May 01, 11" data-title="President Obama Roasts Donald Trump At White House Correspondents' Dinner!"> Jul 08, 10" data-title="The best advice Warren Buffett ever received"> Oct 22, 12" data-title="HOW TO PICK UP A GIRL AT THE GYM"> Jul 17, 12" data-title="Clients From Hell"> Nov 29, 11" data-title="Tough Mudder 2012"> Jul 15, 12" data-title="PSY - GANGNAM STYLE (강남스타일) M/V"> Mar 12, 12" data-title="CorporationCentre.ca - Access Charity Non-Profit Incorporation"> Mar 10, 12" data-title="Cats Dancing and Waving"> Feb 17, 12" data-title="Someone Like You - Adele Cover by Belinda Sipcic"> Sep 12, 08" data-title="Information Bombardment"> Jan 03, 12" data-title="never a dull moment on the nyc subway"> Dec 25, 11" data-title="DJ Earworm Mashup - United State of Pop 2011 (World Go Boom)"> May 05, 09" data-title="maintain eye contact... "mission impossible""> Apr 17, 09" data-title="NBA marriage proposal fail"> Dec 20, 11" data-title="YouTube Rewind 2011"> Sep 24, 10" data-title="Duck Sauce - Barbra Streisand (Official Video / Out Now)"> Jun 01, 07" data-title="Steve Jobs Burning Bill Gates"> Aug 22, 11" data-title="Say Something Nice"> Dec 30, 08" data-title="Apple without Steve Jobs (Welcome to Macintosh)"> Jul 25, 11" data-title="The annotated Rob Ford: notes on the mayor's interview with CP24 on July 22, 2011"> Aug 01, 11" data-title="Adam Ostrow: After your final status update"> Jul 19, 11" data-title="Rooster Teeth Shorts : Facebook vs. Google Plus (Social Network Parody)"> Oct 14, 10" data-title="RSA Animate - Changing Education Paradigms"> Jun 04, 11" data-title="Shampoo Prank Original"> Jun 04, 11" data-title="Exclusive Preview on iOS 5 - iPad Zauberer Simon Pierro"> May 13, 11" data-title="Spot Angry Birds en Terrassa"> Oct 24, 09" data-title="22 Minutes - Liberal vs Conservative Mac Ad Parody"> Mar 30, 11" data-title="Introducing Gmail Motion"> Mar 31, 11" data-title="Being a Google Autocompleter"> Feb 19, 08" data-title="Maury - fattest girl in the world"> Feb 09, 11" data-title="The meaning of love for Valentine's Day"> Feb 06, 11" data-title="Chrysler Eminem Super Bowl Commercial - Imported From Detroit Chrysler 200"> Jan 31, 11" data-title="Photoshop Tutorial Rap"> Jan 28, 11" data-title="Strombo Talks About The Impending Metered Internet"> Dec 01, 09" data-title="Between Two Ferns with Zach Galifianakis: Conan O'Brien & Andy Richter"> Nov 21, 10" data-title="Angry Birds Peace Treaty"> Aug 23, 10" data-title="Inside Job (Documentary) trailer HD 8-10-2010"> Oct 06, 10" data-title="What Are Chicken Nuggets Made Of?"> Nov 30, 10" data-title="La Senza presents The Cup Size Choir">
Checkins

Checkins

Badges

Profile
- Now Creative Group
  71 Bathurst Street, Unit 406
  
  Jun 19, 13
- Now Creative Group
  71 Bathurst Street, Unit 406
  
  Jun 19, 13
- Project Rhino
  71 Bathurst St.
  
  Jun 19, 13
- Centre for Social Innovation
  720 Bathurst St.
  
  Jun 19, 13
- Springdale Medical Centre
  
  Jun 19, 13
- Starbucks
  90 Great Lakes Dr
  
  Jun 19, 13
- Petro-Canada
  10115 Bramalea Rd.
  
  Jun 18, 13
- Pomodoro Italian Kitchen
  200 County Court Boulevard
  
  Jun 18, 13
- great lakes medical clinic
  
  Jun 18, 13
- TD Canada Trust
  90 Great Lakes Dr
  
  Jun 18, 13
- Trinity Common
  210 Great Lakes Dr.
  
  Jun 18, 13
- Starbucks
  90 Great Lakes Dr
  
  Jun 18, 13
- Longo's
  7700 Hurontario Street
  
  Jun 17, 13
- ACCESS: Allowing Children a Chance at Education
  7700 Hurontario Street
  
  Jun 17, 13
- Community Door
  7700 Hurontario Street
  
  Jun 17, 13
- Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
  3111 Convair Dr.
  
  Jun 16, 13
- McCarran International Airport (LAS)
  5757 Wayne Newton Blvd
  
  Jun 16, 13
- Fremont Street
  
  Jun 16, 13
- McCarran International Airport (LAS)
  5757 Wayne Newton Blvd
  
  Jun 16, 13
- Fremont Street
  
  Jun 15, 13
Posts

Posts

Feed
- Content Marketing: How it can help your Business
  
  Jun 17, 13
  
  It’s no mystery that the most effective marketing strategies include information consumers need — as opposed to irrelevant noise being screamed at them in a radio, TV or Internet ad — and a call to action. Though traditional advertisements will always be with us, social media have ushered in the gilded era of “content marketing,” or what the Content Marketing Institute calls the “art of communicating with your customers and prospects without selling.”
  
  Content marketing often reaches consumers through their direction or instigation (clicking on a link), not through passive—or sometimes unwilling—observation. It delivers information in the form of a blog post, email, article in a print or online publication, or a video that informs buyers with relevant content.
  
  Just as your small business credit card helps you manage the financial part of your business, content marketing helps you manage the essence of your business: your product or service, corporate message and reputation. Nielsen found that 58 percent of consumers trust editorial content, according to InboundMarketingAgents.com. They trust the information because it helps them in some way—whether it’s understanding a problem or discovering the hidden benefits of solving a problem.
  
  To generate content that works as a fruitful marketing tool, it helps to be aware of what content marketing isn’t. Search engine optimization (SEO) expert Lee Odden points out on TopRank that it’s not simply creating volumes of content. It’s strategic, not “mechanical spray and pray.”
  
  Generating content starts with identifying the themes of your business and how your products can solve problems. One of the easiest ways to narrow down your content creation needs, Right Source Marketing stated in “How to Grow Your Business with Content Marketing,” is to identify up to a dozen themes and focus on building a campaign around each of them.
  
  There’s no way to sugarcoat it—producing content that converts prospects to customers can be a daunting undertaking. One reason is that context is often needed for the information in an article, video or blog post, content marketing expert Brian Clark stated on Marketing Land. Provide context by developing what’s known as “cornerstone content” around the topics people need to understand in order to do business with you, Clark advised.
  
  Inspirational content marketing begins with meaningful storytelling, SEO expert Odden said. Then, that meaningful storytelling must be targeted to your current and prospective customers.
  
  Publishing content and optimizing it to attract readers is a step in the right direction, but it’s not the end of the line, according to Right Source Marketing. Content distribution is a strategic marketing tactic, not random attempts to get your message out. Distributing the content entails comprehensive research about your audience and must be disbursed in outlets sought out by your targeted consumer group.
  
  If you’re serious about content marketing, an editorial calendar to plan pieces in advance is essential. An easy way to start to build your editorial calendar is by being aware of holidays, seasons and upcoming events that pertain to your products or services.
  
  There is literally enough information online and in university courses about content marketing to earn a degree in it. Fortunately, by knowing the basics — and keeping up to date with the ever-changing Google Panda and Penguin algorithms — you can begin to position your business to reap the benefits of this most credible form of marketing.
  
  Share or Save This
- Half rely on Social Media when making a Buying Decision
  
  Jun 12, 13
  The world of Social Media is changing every day. Here are 17 new, useful Social Media Statistics.
  
  27% of total US internet time is spent on social networking sites.
  
  15% of total US mobile internet time is spent on social networking sites.
  
  Social media produces nearly double the marketing leads of trade shows, telemarketing, direct mail or PPC.
  
  Social lead conversion rates are 13% higher than the average lead conversion rate.
  
  21% of marketers say that social media has become more important to their company over the past 6 months.
  
  74% of all marketers say Facebook is important to their lead generation strategies.
  
  Companies that generate more than 1,000 Facebook likes also get close to 1,400 website visits daily.
  
  52% of all marketers have found a customer through Facebook in 2013 so far.
  
  On Facebook, brand posts achieve 50% of their reach within 30 minutes.
  
  85% of Facebook fans of brands recommend them to others, compared to 60% of average users.
  
  43% of all marketers have found a customer on LinkedIn in 2013 so far.
  
  36% of all marketers have found a customer on Twitter in 2013 so far.
  
  59% of Twitter users have visited B2B tech brand sites, compared to only 40% of average internet users.
  
  25% of consumers who complain about products on Facebook or Twitter expect a response within an hour.
  
  Women (48%) are more likely than men (43%) to regularly check out a brand’s social page.
  
  23% of marketers are investing in blogging and social media this year—a 9% annual increase.
  
  Approximately 46% of online users rely on social media, when they make a buying decision.
  
  The above statistics are provided by Social Media Today.
  
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- How to Measure Social Media Campaign Success
  
  Jun 03, 13
  
  Determining the success of a social media campaign comes down to an issue of metrics. The following are the top three metrics you should be looking at when gauging the success of your social media strategy.
  
  Active Participation
  
  A quick snapshot of any social media campaign is to look at the number of users who are accessing your social media profiles. With Facebook, it would be the number of “likes.” With Twitter, it would be the number of retweets. However, these numbers aren’t the only ones you should be studying. Go deeper. The key to social media is engagement. For instance, Facebook provides its page administrators with a detailed analysis of the percentage of comments generated and views. The other networks have metrics such as page views and mentions that can also indicate the kind of volume your company is attracting.
  
  Bounce Rate
  
  Are your visitors arriving at your site from your social media profiles but leaving immediately? Take a look at the time spent on your website from your different traffic sources. If you find that visitors are spending less than a minute on your website, then maybe your landing page needs better copy. Or maybe you’re attracting the wrong audience.
  
  Conversions
  
  You want social media campaigns to convert, either into subscriptions, sales or any other items that you’re offering as part of your sales funnel. If your sales increase after launching a successful social media campaign, then it worked. However, those numbers can also be used to determine the return on investment when it comes to expanding your reach. For instance, if you have a 5% increase in sales with a 10% increase in site traffic then it follows the more traffic, the more sales.
  
  Not all of the metrics are simple to track and may require some advanced tools. It’s very important to take the time to have the right measurement and analytical tools in place before you start a social media campaign. Without the right tools, you won’t be able to determine if your campaigns were successful or an abysmal failure.
  
  For help with Social Media Management, learn more about our services here.
  
  The tips above are provided by CorporationCentre’s You Inc.
  
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- Creating Videos to Help Your Customers
  
  May 27, 13
  
  Can creating an online video help your business? Consider the facts: ComScore released a study that found a whopping 82.5% of American Internet users viewed a video online. Another report found that in 2010, 30% of Internet traffic was video content.
  
  By this year, that number can go up to 90%. Next to Google, YouTube is the biggest search engine on the internet. There are over 60 hours of video uploaded every single minute for a total of around 4 billion videos being posted every day.
  
  About 800 million users stop by YouTube every month. That’s an amazing range of audience to try and tap into and that is just YouTube.
  
  In the business arena, consumers spend more time at a website watching a video as opposed to a site without that type of content. More folks would rather watch a video than read text so how can you tap into potential customer base?
  
  That’s easy: You have to create your own videos. If you’re not convinced yet, consider these other factors:
  
  Videos can be the best way to convey a lot of information.
  
  A video can deliver a lot of messages in a short amount of time. This is especially important when it comes to company branding. Writing blog posts will only take you so far. With a video, you can reinforce the positive attributes of your company’s product in a memorable way.Make videos with humor and you’ll go even further in terms of brand retention. You’ll also be able to form your company’s personality through your video presentations. That’s going to be extremely valuable.
  
  Videos can have multiple uses.
  
  A video docked on your website can be a terrific asset, but a good video has a broad range of uses. It can be purposed on YouTube and other sites to bring traffic back to your site. The video can also be embedded in an email newsletter or used in a sales presentation.
  
  Videos are what your customers want.
  
  Consider the tale of two websites. One has fun videos and the other just copy. Which one will get more engagement? The one with videos. If you want to keep your customers engaged give them what they want and that would be video content. In other words, if you’re not making videos your competitor will.
  
  Videos will continually be useful.
  
  There are some studies that declare by 2014, the vast majority of mobile data traffic will be video. Every Smartphone and pad device has the capability to watch videos. By creating this type of content you’ll be positioning your company to be “on the go” wherever your customers are headed.
  
  To get started with videos for your customers, contact us now.
  
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- 5 Reasons to Work from a Coffee Shop
  
  Mar 25, 13
  Whether you normally work from home, have your own office in a corporate environment, share an office or work out of a co-working space, here are a few reasons to consider working from a coffee shop.
  
  Five reasons to work from a coffee shop, cafe or library:
  
  Change of Environment Stimulates Creativity
  
  Fewer Distractions from Co-Workers, Family
  
  Community and Meeting New People
  
  Freedom to Change Seats or Locations
  
  Easy Access to Refreshments
  
  There are a few things to consider, such as having access to a power outlet or coming fully charged, and finding an ideal seat (comfortable chair, enough table room, not too close to a door or cash register).
  
  One entrepreneur shares his rationale on the above points in a blog post: Why you should work from a coffee shop, even when you have an office available here.
  
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- How to Compete Using Search Engine Optimization
  
  Mar 18, 13
  The Internet is massive – and growing constantly, with over 600 Million websites online today. To compete, many sites and blogs are using Search Engine Optimization, or SEO, to help increase their appearances in Search Engines like Google, Yahoo, or Bing.
  
  It is argued that SEO provides a greater return on investment than any other comparable form of marketing. However, SEO is not simply about choosing the right keywords.
  
  Here are some ways that you can beat your competitors at SEO:
  
  Focus on content creation.
  
  Plan keyword targeting strategies carefully.
  
  Stay abreast of SEO news.
  
  Monitor your competitors’ backlink profiles.
  
  Monitor your competitors’ on-site SEO activities.
  
  To discuss SEO options for your website or blog, please contact Daniel Design.
  
  For more on the these SEO suggestions, view this article descriptions on the 5 tips.
  
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- What is Responsive Web Design?
  
  Mar 11, 13
  The term “Responsive Web Design” is mentioned more and more often. But what does it mean, and how important is it to your website’s success?
  
  According to Stanford University’s definition, Responsive Web Design involves:
  
  A website that responds to the device that accesses it and delivers the appropriate output for it uses responsive design. Rather than designing multiple sites for different-sized devices, this approach designs one site but specifies how it should appear on varied devices.
  
  As displayed in the graphic below, the elements and content automatically adjust and re-size based on the screen size and device.
  
  Why Responsive Web Design is Relevant
  
  More people are accessing information on mobile devices. You need to be able to invite them to view your site based on their preferences.
  
  Images not fixed shapes and sizes – they should be fluid. In Responsive Web Design, they adjust accordingly.
  
  It is easier than you think.
  
  To be heard, viewed, acknowledged online through your website, you have to adapt.
  
  “The control which designers know in the print medium, and often desire in the web medium, is simply a function of the limitation of the printed page. We should embrace the fact that the web doesn’t have the same constraints, and design for this flexibility. But first, we must ‘accept the ebb and flow of things.” – John Allsopp, “A Dao of Web Design”
  
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- Business Cards still Effective for Growing and Promoting
  
  Nov 15, 12
  
  Digital communication is eliminating former physical necessities. Fountain pens seem pre-WWII. Typewriters are great conversation starters but no one is using them for business anymore. Ledger notebooks are hopelessly outdated when you can choose between Quicken, QuickBooks and a host of other software tools. Alternatively, business cards are still important and relevant tools to promote yourself and your business.
  
  So much of our world is online and has changed how we view things and how we organize them. We tend to see only the most recent items at the top of our email inbox. Very little remains in our digital work that isn’t urgent or timely. Take a look at your email inbox and then look at your physical inbox, if you have one. Better yet, look at your refrigerator or bulletin board. You’ll likely notice you’ve kept things far longer than is strictly necessary. You might have a magnet calendar from last year you haven’t thrown away but you’ve deleted plenty of emails that are no longer relevant to your life.
  
  We have a tendency to hold on to physical reminders of things we like or need to do. We also keep things because it’s easier than throwing them out or because we find them interesting or aesthetically pleasing. That’s why business cards can be so powerful. So before you head out to your next conference or networking event, load up your pocket with a stack of business cards.
  
  Modern Advantages
  
  One massive advantage you have over your forebearers is modern printing technology. Way back in the (relatively) dark ages, printing custom stationary items was expensive and took a long time. You also probably had to order a huge quantity or pay a premium for a small print run. Now, printers are using digital technology to their advantage and yours. Scrambling to get your new title on a card before a big meeting? Don’t sweat it, because printing business cards from Overnight Prints is one of many solutions that will have you looking like a polished professional in the board room.
  
  If your company or your clientele are tech savvy, add a QR code to your card. Thusly, you can provide a tactile and electronic business card at the same time.
  
  Design Options
  
  Though you may not be passionate about the merits of ecru versus bone; embossing over engraving or adding a watermark, significant thought should be put into the design and layout of your business cards. No matter how “cool” a certain style might look, your card must reflect the nature and character of your business. A card for a graphic designer from a hip, fun agency should look entirely different from the card of a C.P.A. at a serious investment firm. While non-traditional shapes, die cuts (cut outs) and glossy finishes are attention grabbing, use them thoughtfully and selectively. Designing business cards isn’t like choosing upgrades for a car: more isn’t always better! If you’re having trouble making a choice, consult a trusted colleague or ask your printer for advice.
  
  Next time you leave the office, take a few of your new, memorable business cards with you. You never know when you’ll really need one.
  
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- How Secure is Your Password?
  
  Oct 31, 12
  
  With the growth of businesses going online, mobile and social, the risk of website information hacking has also increased – many times simply from people setting poor passwords. The key is to be smart about password protection on any web platform you use. Knowing the do’s and don’ts can be critical.
  
  Why Making a Hard-to-Crack Password Matters
  
  Maintaining your internet security is imperative in today’s business digital era. Over 8 million Americans were victims of online identity theft in 2011.
  
  In this infographic, you can investigate how crucial adding only a few characters to your password can be.
  
  The following infographic was put together by LifeLock.
  
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- Accessing Healthcare is Easy with iAmSick.ca
  
  Oct 10, 12
  
  Looking for healthcare is not the simplest task, as information is not available in centralized location, until now. A new online tool – iAmSick.ca – has been created to address this, starting in Toronto. Early in the team’s journey, Daniel Design began a logo development process.
  
  Why start a healthcare mapping resource? There are two problems that iAmSick.ca addresses. The first is a systematic problem that is burdening the Canadian healthcare system; and the second is a problem related to inconveniences experienced by Canadians who seek same-day primary care options. How has design helped them get started?
  
  “Daniel brought artistic insight to our logo design, taking into account our vision and requirements. He worked with us through many iterations to refine the logo into one that best represents our brand.” – iAmSick.ca Team
  
  This is destined to be a popular tool – helping both the healthcare industry and everyday citizens. The Canadian healthcare system is overburdened with unnecessary Emergency Room visits. Almost half of all ER visits are non-critical, and it costs the government more per patient for an ER visit compared to receiving similar treatment at an urgent care centre, walk-in clinic or family doctor. Patients are inconvenienced by the ineffective use of consumer technology when it comes to healthcare in Canada. What about just Googling instead? Searches for nearby same-day healthcare options in Canada often deliver results that are incomplete, noisy or out-of-date, and information is dispersed across various websites. For ERs, urgent care centres and walk-in clinics, patients register in person and spend unproductive hours in a waiting room.
  
  Visual Identity Design Process
  
  The design process included the overall visual identity – including colours, typography, supplementary imagery and even naming options. The colour combination is designed to be unique to the overall healthcare industry, to help this fresh new tool be identified. Various colour options are displayed in the boxes to the right.
  
  The iAmSick.ca logo was designed to be easily applicable to a future mobile phone App (see square versions below). Various iterations were created for the iAmSick.ca Twitter account and Facebook page (along with header graphics and backgrounds).
  
  “Ever visited another city, and needed healthcare services? This will help, as there is a lack of awareness of healthcare options for travellers,” the creators explain. “International students aren’t fully aware of all healthcare providers that accept UHIP health insurance plans, Canadians traveling out-of-province may be unaware of their healthcare options, and international visitors to Canada may have travel insurance but are unaware of their healthcare options. We are working towards providing users with all the information they need in a single place.”
  
  Overall iAmSick.ca consolidates information about emergency rooms, urgent care centres, walk-in clinics and pharmacies onto a map that makes it easier for patients to learn about their surroundings and see relevant information.
  
  Upon beta launch, the tool only shows information for Ontario, but the team is working towards showing all Canadians what’s nearby, what’s open at the time of search, wait-time information if its available, and more.
  
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- Video: Why Design for Social Good? Documentary
  
  May 14, 12
  
  Why use your design skills to help others? Hear what designers and activists have to say about designing for social good.
  
  This documentary, called Why Design for Social Good? Designing for Good: Advice from Designers & Activists features graphic designers and non-profit and community activists speaking on the importance and significance of quality graphic design and visual identity in terms of supporting social good movements and non-profit groups.
  
  The video features activists and designers – many of which are defined as both; Louroz Mercader, Jessica Roher, Steve Virtue, Zahra Ebrahim, Keith Rushton and Jay Wall.
  
  Watch it Online Now here. If you are interested in a DVD copy of the 14-minute documentary, please email daniel@danielfrancavilla.com.
  
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- Logo launched for Scarborough Civic Action Network
  
  Apr 15, 12
  
  As described in a previous post about the progress, a new logo was designed for the Scarborough Civic Action Network as a deliverable for the Designing for Good thesis, as an example of what would be produced from the centre. For background information on the logo design process, click here.
  
  Despite the effectiveness of the Scarborough Civic Action Network (SCAN) in extending its reach throughout Scarborough and facilitating civic engagement over the past ten years, the organization did not have a logo to identify their work.
  
  SCAN wanted a logo that represented connecting people and ideas across Scarborough, and the positive growth and change that develops from these connections. They also wanted the logo to reflect that the civic engagement work undertaken in Scarborough has ripple effects throughout our communities, Scarborough and the City of Toronto.
  
  Jessica Roher, Coordinator at SCAN during the process, explained that “the logo developed by Daniel Francavilla reflects the positive impact we can have when we make a concerted effort to contribute to improving our communities.”
  
  “While we wanted SCAN’s logo to be professional and clean, we also wanted to ensure that it reflects that we work with communities at the grassroots level to make civic engagement fun and accessible. Capitalizing the word ‘Scarborough’ while writing ‘civic action network’ in lower case, allowed us to balance the formal and informal engagement that we do.”
  
  In addition, the organization required flexibility because the Scarborough Civic Action Network is known by most in the community as SCAN but has previously been referred to as ‘ScarboroughCAN’.
  
  A logo was developed along with three alternative variations to be used in certain situations. The main logo, displayed above as the finalized design, will be applied to SCAN’s documents and marketing materials, beginning with the website (currently being developed). Along with the logo, a typographic style and colour scheme were provided to the organization for implementation.
  
  “We wanted to make sure that our logo could be adjusted so that variations could be used for different events. Daniel developed a logo that allows for this flexibility but is consistent,” Roher explained, ”We are really excited about our new logo because we know it will help us extend our reach further and be more visible in the community”.
  
  Colin Hughes, Chair of SCAN, stated:
  
  “We are very pleased and excited about the new logo designed by Daniel Francavilla for the Scarborough Civic Action Network and extend to him our gratitude and congratulations! The new logo gives SCAN an unique and fitting visual presence and is especially needed to make fuller use of social media to outreach and connect with the community on civic issues and civic involvement.”
  
  It was a very positive experience working with the SCAN team and developing a logo for an organization that is making real change within Toronto.
  
  Organizations interested in design services can contact daniel@danieldesign.ca.
  
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- Logo Design Process for a Local Civic Action Network
  
  Apr 10, 12
  
  As an application of the Designing for Good project (an example of what the centre would develop), a logo was created for Scarborough Civic Action Network.
  
  The Scarborough Civic Action Network (part of Agincourt Community Services Association), which has been operating actively for over a decade, was looking to develop a logo and defined visual identity for the first time.
  
  The organization is a network of agencies, community groups, and individuals working to improve the quality of life of Scarborough’s diverse and growing population through civic action. They raise awareness and speak out on issues that matter to Scarborough residents as citizens of Toronto, Ontario and Canada.
  
  SCAN was looking for a logo that reflects what they do and that appears interesting. Their coordinator (staff member) lead the process, and their Steering Committee provided feedback and direction along the way.
  
  To begin work on this in a shorter timeframe, an Online Survey for the Steering Committee was conducted, to provide their answers and direction efficiently. Part of the research also came from both new and existing Key Informant Interviews.
  
  In terms of visual style, the SCAN team requested something graphic and not solely typographical. Having a symbol was preferred over a wordmark-only solution.
  
  There was debate and uncertainty in regards to the text or name used in the logo. One example for naming was the logo for the Greater Toronto CivicAction Alliance, which is a very large “CivicAction” with their full name as a sub-caption below it. However, others within the organization preferred the name “Scarborough” as the larger focus instead of “Civic Action”. Currently the organization can be referred to as both: “SCAN” or “Scarborough CAN”, which each work verbally and visually, however the meanings of them as words differ. When thinking about domain names for their upcoming website, the suggestion of ScarboroughCan.ca was decided upon as part of the survey. Another suggestion was to create a tagline or phrase to use as domain (for example: “ScarboroughTogether.com” or “ConnectingScarborough.ca”).
  
  For colour, there had not been anything specifically defined or existing. One key note is that they would like to avoid using any of the political party colours (red, royal blue, green, orange). One suggestion was teal, or earth tones, from the SCAN team.
  
  When it came to content and inspiration, a key note is that this organization focuses on larger issues, not solely civic engagement. Some of the key words and terms to consider include: Questions, Education, Network, Thought, Conversation, Ripple Effect, Communities Rising, Change, Bringing People Together. Several other non-profit organizations, governments and civic action-related organizations logos were reviewed and evaluated.
  
  The Scarborough Civic action Network logo is a result of months of research and refinement of five concepts. The final version will be posted online shortly.
  
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- Interview with Zahra Ebrahim: Creativity Architect, Designer, Community Activist
  
  Apr 09, 12
  
  This week’s Designing for Good interview is with Zahra Ebrahim, a creativity architect, community activist, professor at OCAD U – and the Founder and Principal of archiTEXT inc, a Toronto design consultancy and think tank.
  
  DF: As a designer who has also worked with non-profit organizations and community groups, how has design impacted the initiatives you have been involved with?
  
  ZE: There are a few dimensions. In my work, I get to use design (architecture) as a tool to introduce kids to what the idea of being a creative is. It opens them up to the idea. For example, my studio is currently facilitating a project where kids are building a building right now and they’re seeing community come together through the design process, bringing architecture to inner suburbs, exploring models of economic development, and enabling them access to a traditionally inaccessible discipline. If you give the responsibility of design to people that would not necessarily have access to it, you are making the seemingly impossible possible. Design is a tool to enable people, and is also a mobilizer.
  
  DF: What are your thoughts on how your organization or project (or one you know of) would function with poor, default, unthoughtful design and branding?
  
  ZE: The problem is people are willing to accept mediocre design. Over the past few years, I’ve had the opportunity to be involved with ReThink Breast Cancer. When I was asked to get involved initially, I was impressed by their attention to design. By valuing good design, they invest in an authentic representation of their organization. A designer clearly did their due diligence, because a visual was created, that I (an outsider to the organization) can connect with. So when I interface with them visually, it helps establish a stronger relationship.
  
  DF: Do you feel that non-profits, social enterprises and grassroots initiatives can survive and compete for attention with the visual branding of large companies?
  
  ZE: Yeah. There are some really great examples. In a perfect world, a Graphic Designer doesn’t give better work to the corporation. What comes out is a representation of the process of engaging with the organization. A designer creating for “Not Far From the Tree” vs. “Ford” should have the same quality. There’s no competition. Design is supposed to be consistent.
  
  DF: In your opinion, should all designers have some sustainability or social conscious in their practice and philosophy?
  
  ZE: It’s like acting – if you have it, you have it. For some of us it runs in our blood stream, so to mandate it would be counter-intuitive. For those that need to develop a socially conscious thread to their work, it is about finding an authentic connection to something that deeply affects them. What’s also changing is that people are more scrutinizing. There’s more choice. A client may not be looking for a socially conscious twist, but to have it makes you more attractive to work with. Now, that’s what gets the edge. A colleague of mine always says: “Volunteering is to the 90s what going to the country club was to the 70s…”
  
  DF: Do you think that a physical storefront (or space or studio) dedicated to offering design services for “good” would be a useful idea?
  
  ZE: Organizations need good visual identities. What a storefront does is provides access to it. How do these organizations find out about this plea? How do they find you, how do they interface with you? Go into communities that don’t have any access to design. It’s all about how they find you. It’s about access. Bridging the design community with those in need of good design.
  
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- Quote Poster Series: Designing for Good
  
  Apr 04, 12
  
  A series of posters based on the quotes from both the DesigningforGood.ca Interview Series and the Designing for Good Video for new graphic designers.
  
  The above gallery consists of JPG files. To view the full-size poster or download the file, simply right-click and choose Save Linked File as.
  
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- Interview with Jay Eckert, Innovative Graphic Designer
  
  Apr 02, 12
  This week’s Designing for Good interview is with Jay Eckert, R.G.D, the Principal and Art Director of Parachute Design, who believes good design is all about creating the most positive user-experience.
  
  DF: As a designer, or someone who has worked in the non-profit industry, how has design impacted your design business?
  
  JE: The quality of the design used to marketing our business is two-fold:
  
  We are designers, so showing a high level of design which is thoughtful, current and showcases visual strength we set ourselves apart from the melting pot of average design studios.
  
  The simple and clear communication of our online and print material provides to-the-point, direct information to the viewer and generates action.
  
  DF: What are your thoughts on how your organization or project (or one you know of) would function with poor, default, unthoughtful design and branding?
  
  JE: With poor design representing our business we would not convey strong talent and experience in the service we provide to our clients.
  
  We would not stand out from the crowd.
  We would not portray professionalism.
  We would not instill confidence in our clients.
  We would not be taken as seriously.
  
  DF: Do you feel that non-profits, social enterprises and grassroots initiatives can survive and compete for attention with the visual branding of large companies?
  
  JE: Without strong branding and clear and effective communications the message can be lost or not effectively delivered to the audience. Without a memorable and effective brand, the organization is not as easily remembered, or taken as seriously.
  
  DF: In your opinion, should all designers have some sustainability or social conscious in their practice and philosophy?
  
  JE: In my education (post secondary) working in partnership with non-profits was a great exposure to the working world of design and good practice for working with a client for the first time. This experience is very important and should be provided to new designers. The positive for the non profit is free work, however, the quality of the work rarely compares to that of a professional studio (very good example of “you get what you pay for”). For non profits in startup mode this is a great solution, but once up and running, considerable effort and resources should be put into furthering or refining the brand if not from the very beginning. I don’t believe all designers should have some sustainability or social conscience in their work as its a personal choice and should not be forced.
  
  DF: Do you think that a physical storefront (or space or studio) dedicated to offering design services for “good” would be a useful idea?
  
  The owners of “Designing for Good” are colleagues of mine and their mission is to provide full service solutions for non-profits. There are studios out their already following this mantra. I do think it is very useful though.
  
  DF: Are there any non-profits or social causes that you would identify as examples of good design having a positive impact overall?
  
  JE: YMCA, Salvation Army, United Way, World Wildlife Fund
  
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- Interview with Denise Spiessens: Designer and Developer for Positive Change
  
  Mar 26, 12
  
  This week’s Designing for Good Interview is with Denise Spiessens, Senior Designer at rtraction – a digital agency interested in positive change (creating it, learning it, influencing it, and helping clients navigate it).
  
  DF: As a designer works with clients in the non-profit industry, how has design impacted the causes you have worked on?
  
  DS: Design impacts any organization, non-profit or for-profit, regardless of cause or opportunity. Hand-in-hand with good marketing, it’s what people recognize as your brand, and it’s what sets you apart from your competition. Good design is synonymous with credibility and professionalism. It gets noticed, respected and, more importantly, remembered. Design is an essential element of any organization’s identity. For non-profits, that identity is what attracts donors, volunteers, talented staff and board members that allow the organizations to continue doing their great work for their communities.
  
  What are your thoughts on how an organization or one of your clients would function with poor, default, unthoughtful design and branding?
  
  DS: Poor design could hinder your cause. That’s really what it comes down to. The message gets lost or confused and it doesn’t have the impact it would if you had well-designed materials. Potential supporters don’t get to know your work well enough to have faith in it and want to be a part of it, and potential benefactors may not know where to go for help.
  
  Do you feel that non-profits, social enterprises and grassroots initiatives can survive and compete for attention with the visual branding of large companies?
  
  DS: Yes, I do. There are plenty of non-profits that have great branding and design. A well-designed logo doesn’t need to cost $100,000 for example. There are also initiatives out there for organizations that need designers but don’t necessarily have the budget, like Sparked – an online volunteering hub with a section specifically for non-profit groups at sparked.com.
  
  On the other hand, it’s important to consider whether non-profits need to compete for attention with large companies. Certainly, people’s attention spans are only so great, and there is always some level of competition for that. But creating a visual identity that is actually targeted to the appropriate demographic is more important than competing with Pepsi or Volkswagen for general attention.
  
  DF: In your opinion, should all designers have some sustainability or social conscious in their practice and philosophy?
  
  DS: I don’t believe it should be a requirement, but I would urge them to help those causes that are important to them personally. Too often careers are seen as a means to make money, but it’s beneficial to all, and a worthy thing, to help people and community when they need it. I think by nature designers are passionate people. The designers I know live and breathe design and they do it every day because it feeds some part of them. How great would it be if they could pass that passion on to an organization or community that truly needs their support? The same could be said for any industry.
  
  DF: Do you think that a physical storefront or studio dedicated to offering design services for “good” would be a useful idea?
  
  DS: I think having a space where designers can come together to discuss ideas and work with each other is great. However, this could be accomplished quite easily online. Additionally, there are companies like the one I work for that allocate a certain percentage of their work to non-profits every year in an attempt to give back to the community.
  
  DF: Are there any non-profits or social causes that you would identify as examples of good design having a positive impact overall?
  
  DS: Last year we worked with a local non-profit called ReForest London on its Million Tree Challenge initiative. Basically, the goal of the challenge is to get the community involved in planting more trees in London, Ontario. We donated a new website to ReForest London for this great cause, and the response has been terrific. The website design has been featured in numerous blogs and galleries across the web. The added exposure from the design has increased site visits, and inherently increased the number of people who have committed to planting trees in London.
  
  Do you know of any causes, movements, groups or non-profits specifically that lack great design, and could benefit from some assistance should the services be provided?
  
  DS: There are plenty out there. Unfortunately, most non-profits don’t have a budget for design. It’s the sad nature of their business. Recently, rtraction ran a Canada-wide contest to find the worst website in the nation (Canada’s Worst Charity Website). It called for people to submit websites from registered charities across Canada that they think needed a makeover. There was a total of just under 150. Each entry was judged and a top 10 list was compiled. It was up to Canada to vote on the “worst” website, which will receive a $25,000 makeover courtesy of rtraction and a handful of other businesses in London, Ontario. The winner is at rtraction.com.
  
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- Benefits of Designing for a Cause and Pro Bono Design
  
  Mar 19, 12
  What are the benefits of designing for a cause, working with non-profits, or doing pro bono design work? The following is a list of benefits produced as part of RGD Ontario‘s (Association of Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario) Designer’s Guide to Pro Bono Work. This document was created by members of the RGD Ontario Provisional Committee in 2007 to assist designers and non-profits to work together on pro bono projects that benefit the community.
  
  Creativity: It is refreshing and inspiring to work with dedicated staff who believe in what they do.
  
  Networking: Non-profit or charitable organizations’ Board of Directors and other volunteers are great people to network with since some of them are business owners and prospective clients.
  
  Philanthropy: What is better than using your talent and knowledge to help effect change and support something that you believe in?
  
  Portfolio: It is a way to explore areas of design that are not yet prominent in your portfolio and develop creative and innovative new work.
  
  Although this is only one resource, and refers mainly to “pro bono” work, it is very relevant to the benefits of Designing for Good – whether it be officially documented for a registered charity or non-profit, or simply for the benefit of society and the greater good in general.
  
  RGD Ontario’s Designer’s Guide to Pro Bono Work is available for download at this link.
  
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- Interview with Gopika Prabhu: Graphic Designer for Clients that make the world a better place
  
  Mar 12, 12
  
  This week’s Designing for Good Interview is with Gopika Prabhu, the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Elefint Designs, a design and marketing firm dedicated to serving people and organizations who are making the world a better place.
  
  DF: As a graphic designer (specifically one that works a lot with social-cause clients), how has design impacted the cause or organization you are involved with?
  
  GP: Great design brings out the credibility of an organization. I designed a booklet for an international non-profit that was given to the Prime Minister of Iraq. Through photos and just the right amount of content, the booklet illustrated the work the organization had been doing throughout Iraq. The meeting went great and the Prime Minister gave his full support to further advance the work the organization was doing for women in Iraq. That one booklet is not the reason why the meeting went well, but it did help to uphold the image of this organization as one that is professional, credible and really dedicated to their cause.
  
  DF: What are your thoughts on how your design business, and that of your clients, would function with poor, default, unthoughtful design and branding?
  
  GP: I run a design studio so poor design would very much hurt our brand. Design to us isn’t just the end product, it’s the entire journey from when a prospective client first gets in touch with us, to after we deliver the final product – be it a website, infographic, video etc. Every time a client interacts with us, it’s an opportunity to showcase what we stand for. That’s why we pay attention to every detail – from the length of our contracts, design of our invoices, and process of giving/receiving feedback. Design helps us create a pleasant experience for our clients. Our business is almost entirely run on referrals, so the happier we keep our clients and I think this is definitely tied to delivering high quality and beautiful design as well as paying attention to all the details in between.
  
  DF: Do you feel that non-profits, social enterprises and grassroots initiatives can survive and compete for attention with the visual branding of large companies?
  
  GP: Yes. Just because they’re not selling coke, doesn’t mean non-profits and social enterprises can’t be just as sexy, sleek and impactful. It’s all about branding and getting yourself out there.
  
  DF: In your opinion, should all designers have some sustainability or social conscious in their practice and philosophy?
  
  GP: Using your talent/skills to help others is something that needs to come naturally and without much effort or thought. A designer who is constantly asking him/herself how they can be of service is someone who will do great things. That doesn’t mean that everyone else who may not think this way, is a bad designer or a bad person. Being forced to think a certain way or serving through obligation is the opposite of having a social conscious. I do think that design education can educate students on sustainable design practices, and assign class projects that could make a difference. Ultimately people who are driven by a cause or feel close to a certain subject will want to focus on that. If young designers are exposed to social issues and are equipped with the tools to tackle those issues, then great things can happen.
  
  DF: Do you think that a physical storefront (or space or studio) dedicated to offering design services for “good” would be a useful idea?
  
  GP: It’s an interesting concept. Sounds like a hybrid between a design studio and collaborative workplace. There are communities popping up like that – for example, the Hub in SoMa was started to build a community around social entrepreneurs. I used to work out of there and it really helped to be around like-minded people with different professional backgrounds (from lawyers to people who created yoga bags). It’s a super fun, creative and collaborative space where great things happen. We were working as their in-house design studio and actually created some great partnerships with the people there. I think “physical storefronts” are being replaced by communities centered around sharing of knowledge and expertise. Designers have a huge role to play in such networks/communities.
  
  DF: Are there any non-profits or social causes that you would identify as examples of good design having a positive impact overall?
  
  GP: Back to the Roots, an East Bay based company, did a redesign and saw their sales increase tremendously. World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has the warm, iconic panda that we can all relate to. I had an opportunity to interview one of the Founders of Back to the Roots, details of which can be found here. Also, see the article on Why Design Matters is published in the Stanford Social Innovation Review.
  
  DF: Do you know of any causes, movements, groups or non-profits specifically that lack great design, and could benefit from some assistance should the services be provided?
  
  GP: I’ve always wondered why the United Nations had such a stark website. They are tackling some of the worlds most pressing problems, and have such incredible leadership, yet they have such a boring and lifeless online presence. They could definitely benefit from a more robust, and inspiring website.
  
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- Interview with Catherine Clement: Public Engagement and Non-Profit Communications
  
  Mar 05, 12
  
  This week’s Designing for Good Interview is with Catherine Clement, Vice President of Public Engagement and Communications for Vancouver Foundation, where she has introduced a new brand for the organization. She has also worked in the public, private and not-for-profit sectors including the City of Vancouver and Ontario government in addition to running her own communications firm in Toronto which specialized on communications for non-profits.
  
  DF: As someone who has worked in the non-profit and public service sectors, how has design impacted the cause or organization you are involved with?
  
  CC: Design has been key to attracting people our philanthropic message. A modern yet approachable logo, and strong, eye-catching images for our ads has been important to help us stand out from all the other messages.
  
  DF: What are your thoughts on how your organization or project would function with poor, default, unthoughtful design and branding?
  
  CC: We would not get noticed if we had poor design, and that would truly result in waste of money.
  
  DF: Do you feel that non-profits, social enterprises and grassroots initiatives can survive and compete for attention with the visual branding of large companies?
  
  CC: I absolutely do think they can compete. But more non-profits need to recognize the importance of not only the message but the medium. Too many produce mediocre design. Most charities have that same vanilla look.
  
  DF: In your opinion, should all designers have some sustainability or social conscious in their practice and philosophy?
  
  CC: I am not sure it is important for all designers to have this. But it would be nice if in school each designer in training had an opportunity to apply their skills to a non-profit project.
  
  DF: Do you think that a physical storefront (or space or studio) dedicated to offering design services for “good” would be a useful idea?
  
  CC: I think this could be useful for the smaller non-profits. Bigger ones have their own machines to help with communications and marketing and the design that goes with it. It is the small charities that could really use a resource like this.
  
  DF: Are there any non-profits or social causes that you would identify as examples of good design having a positive impact overall?
  
  CC: I like some of our own materials — Vancouver Foundation. There are some good design pieces coming of out the US. Can’t think of who off-hand, but I know that every once in a while I see something that grabs my attention. It is relatively rare.
  
  DF: Do you know of any causes, movements, groups or non-profits specifically that lack great design, and could benefit from some assistance should the services be provided?
  
  CC: British Columbia Cooperative Association is a great organization, doing fabulous work in the community, but could some updating. Nice logo, but that is about it. Some animal welfare non-profits could also you some assistance. These organizations have the most challenge raising money.
  
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- 5 Ways to Reduce Stress at the Office
  
  Jun 19, 13
  
  Let’s face it: the modern workplace can be a stressful place. Deadlines, downsizing, and constant distraction can make for a difficult environment in which to stay calm and productive. To get a handle on stress at the office, take a good look at your stressors and then implement some simple, effective strategies aimed at minimizing [...]
- How heavy is your backpack?
  
  Jun 17, 13
  
  In the last year or so I have come to realize that I am exactly where I need to be. I have developed and grown the relationships in my life, welcoming new people and ideas, leaving behind a few old relationships which bring nothing positive to my life. May sound harsh, but it’s true. So [...]
- Weekend Yoga Flow Worth Watching
  
  Jun 12, 13
  
  Some simple inspiration for your yoga practice. The photos and video featured here are a a yoga flow vignette filmed on a sunny Saturday afternoon in Atlanta. The yogi featured is Malia Hilliard. Below the photos, at the bottom of this post, watch the full video. Enjoy, and namaste. Watch the Weekend Yoga Flow Video
- 3 Big Tips for 20-Somethings
  
  Jun 10, 13
  
  With major life events like marriage happening later and later, people are wondering, is 30 the new 20? Clinical psychologist Meg Jay says it is not. In a recent TED talk, Meg highlights why being a 20-something is the defining decade in life. Here are the three most significant tips every 20-something needs to hear. 1. Get [...]
- Relief for Seasonal Allergy Sufferers
  
  Jun 05, 13
  
  Lawn weeds are certainly nasty and unpleasant, but they can make you feel miserable, too. People with seasonal allergies will tell you how wretched this time of year is for them. Pollen counts are highest in spring, and many people suffer so much they can’t enjoy the lovely weather. Some of the worst offenders include dandelions, thistle, ragweed, aster, [...]
- 6 Tips for Making Time for Your Workout
  
  Jun 03, 13
  
  Do you find yourself complaining that you couldn’t fit in a workout, or two, or three? Here are a few simple, yet powerful tips to help you live a more balanced lifestyle and fit in regular workouts. Live into the ‘after effect.’ How good is it going to feel when you get your workout in? [...]
- Flourless Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars Recipe
  
  May 29, 13
  
  My husband and I had guests over and I decided to break my tradition of serving a store bought dessert. I always cook the main meal myself, and usually go with President’s Choice Gluten-Free Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf Cake for an after dinner treat – this cake, by the way, is always well received. I [...]
- Too Busy to Eat Healthy?
  
  May 27, 13
  
  Whether you’re a busy young professional, new Mom, or an always-working entrepreneur, there are some simple things you can do to make sure you’re still eating well, with a limited amount of time. One disclaimer first: Don’t try to do everything at once. Going from Junk Food Jane/Joe to Health Food Harriet/Henry overnight never happens, and is [...]
- The Benefits of Hot Yoga
  
  May 22, 13
  
  Celebrities, royalty and athletes are flocking to studios worldwide to lock the knee and stare into their own eyes. But anyone can do it. Hot Yoga – also known as Bikram Yoga – is a system of yoga that Bikram Choudhury created from traditional Hatha Yoga techniques, which started gaining popularity in the 1970s. Here’s what [...]
- Emotions: The Power of Observation
  
  May 20, 13
  
  While navigating through the paths of our lives and completing the daily tasks of our days, we experience a wide range of emotions. Temporary emotions can overwhelm our minds because of an unexpected, typically superficial, stimuli. To subscribe to the idea of Hedonism, we as human beings welcome positive emotions that make us feel good [...]

Daniel Francavilla

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