Packaging - Evaluation

With the packaging brief completed and all work handed in, this unit has went considerably better than the previous. I was able to complete all the requirements set as well as meet the dead line on time. The following is an evaluation on my performance in order to examine my strengths and weaknesses in order to further improve myself.

Strengths / / In comparison to the previous unit my time keeping and organisational skills improved considerably. Referring back to the Instant Print brief, I felt that I didn't allocate myself enough time to work on my final ideas. As a result this led to the final outcomes being rushed and a feeling of disappointment with my own performance. With this project however, I implemented the use of a diary which recorded each task that needed to be completed along with personal targets to aid my own development. This had a significant effect on my ability to manage the work load. I was able to allocate my time wisely and focus on the areas which required more work. My final outcomes this time around were a lot more refined and developed. I managed to make the deadline on time being fairly happy with the work I was submitting.

Another strength to this project I felt was the uniqueness of my final outcome. As we were all following the same criteria it was difficult to try and differenticate our designs. We were all creating a box with roughly the same dimensions and a similar style therefore it was a challenge to create a design with a fresh appeal. However with my final I tried to my best to incorporate a unique aspect which allowed it to remain within the design criteria but still retain a distinctive look. 

Weaknesses / / The weaknesses of the project have to include my development of my final ideas. The BOX logo in the final design was etched using the laser cutter instead of the intended method of embossing. Whilst this did provide an effective outcome, due to my limited knowledge of the processes involved I was unable to explore the desired root. 

On the subject of weaknesses I felt that the digital mock up of the packaging, which was one of the deliverable was particular weak. Whilst my digital skills work has improved greatly since starting the course I found it difficult to create a digital mock up which suited my expectations. The dimensions and proportions were out of shape.

Opportunities / / If I was able to allocate more time to this project I would have liked to develop my final idea even further. With techniques such as laminating and foiling I would like to explore these options. As stated in the above paragraph, in my original thinking I wanted the BOX logo to be embossed into the packaging but due to the time constraints I had to engrave the logo instead. Therefore giving the opportunity to go back I would like to follow my original plan as well as explore the other techniques. I would also create a more accurate digital mock up.

I found this project to be a new and refreshing experience. Packaging was an area of design which was fairly new to me. In the past I had only briefly explored this area but never had the chance to see what the field offers and requires. After completing the live brief I feel my knowledge and skills needed for this area of design has greatly improved. I now know packaging is an area of design which I enjoy and would potentially consider as career path.