I have an apprentice (Chris R.) that works for me on a part time basis that is attending Portland State University's graphic design program here in Portland, OR. Occasionally we would go out on field trips to see some of my vendors/strategic partners. When driving around town she would point out to me and say, "Have you ever noticed that there are alot of crappy signs out there?"

It made me thing that in the last five years I take it upon myself to really notice the environment that I am in and the branding/marketing of clients in those areas. When working as a prepress operator I never really took the time to notice what was going on around me.

She is currently taking a typography course and has a heighten awareness of branding and typography. I reminded her that our primary focus is to help our clients represent their brand in a professional manner. But I also pointed out that I have had clients that I couldn't convince otherwise (no matter how much I hit my head against the wall). If I can just convince them to tweak just one part of their brand then maybe I can continually work on them for change. It is always part of my responsibility to sell a better concept/idea. My client always will have their say in the end but my company's value is my experience and education. That is why I will take the time to research my client's business, who their competitors are and who is their target market. Alot of this information will aid me in designing a quality product that will help them grow.

Have you noticed any "crappy" signs lately? Take a photo and send me the best ones.

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