Design - from all angles
A blog about branding, marketing, and design, mostly through the lens of practical psychology, intended to be a resource to small businesses and entrepreneurs. Unless otherwise noted, all articles are written by Nyla Smith, owner of n-Vision Designs. {Subscribe to the RSS feed here: }
Brand Archetypes — Meet the Innocent
Nyla Smith | Tuesday, December 15, 2015
The cute kid, the dreamer, the optimist, the do-gooder. What do they all have in common? They are manifestations of the Innocent brand archetype, used by corporations to speak to two often unmet needs in our fast-paced, hectic lives – simplicity and happiness. Read Article »
"N" is for Negative Space (How to Use Gestalt Theory for a Memorable Logo)
Nyla Smith | Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Don’t be fooled by the term “negative space.” When it comes to logo design, negative space can be used in very positive ways. As with many other aspects of design, we can look to the field of psychology for insight on how to use negative space to create a memorable logo. Read Article »
"M" is for: Monochromatic (One is the Loveliest Color)
Nyla Smith | Tuesday, November 17, 2015
It was September of 1965 when the color television revolution changed the world. Programming previously watched in shades of gray was now bursting in full color for all to see! It’s understandable that we are drawn to color; we equate it with life and vibrancy. So when I tell you that monochromatic has merits, don’t tune me out just yet! Read Article »
Does Your Brand Have Multiple Personality Disorder? A Look at Brand Archetypes
Nyla Smith | Tuesday, November 10, 2015
Just like a person, your company’s brand has a unique personality, and how people connect with your brand has a huge impact on whether or not they want to do business with you. So what can you do to harness the full power of your brand’s personality? Read Article »
"H" is for: Hexadecimal
Nyla Smith | Tuesday, September 08, 2015
Do you ever find yourself frustrated over color? For instance, do you know how to ensure that your brand colors will be consistent across every form of advertising that you use — from your print to your online marketing efforts? Here is a quick lesson that can help. Read Article »
Plagiarism and the 2020 Olympics Logo
Nyla Smith | Tuesday, August 25, 2015
Plagiarism is a pretty big deal when you’re accused of copying your high school English paper. It’s an even bigger deal when you’re accused of stealing the 2020 Summer Olympics logo design. Ruh roh, Raggy… Read Article »
"F" is for: Favicon
Nyla Smith | Tuesday, August 18, 2015
A favicon (the term is a mashup of “favorites icon”) is one of those little details that should be a part of your visual brand. Go the extra step to reinforce your visual brand and enhance your users' experience of browsing your website by creating a custom favicon. Read Article »
"D" is for: Die Cutting
Nyla Smith | Tuesday, August 04, 2015
Most print pieces we see are solid and rectangular, but this doesn’t have to be the case. If you want to make an impression with a unique print piece, consider die cutting to add interest, increase memorability, and to reinforce your brand or a particular message. Read Article »
Branding Mistakes: Overlooking the little moments
Nyla Smith | Tuesday, July 21, 2015