From the IFD Mailbag …
Design Books and Resources
Hello, everyone!
In last issue's Mailbag, we asked, “What is your favorite design book or resource?” Many of you sent in your picks – including Master designer Rob Davis. Here's what he wrote:
Hi Kristin. Just got your e-zine and thought I'd drop you a quick note with a few suggestions for books to have in your design library. I know the question addressed great "design" books to have in your library, but I think a well-rounded direct-mail designer should also explore facets of the business beyond design, such as copywriting and the advertising business in general.
A well-rounded designer who understands the fundamentals of copy and why people buy things as a result of advertising can be indispensable to a good copywriter.
What follows is a short list of the classics of advertising literature. You're not going to find up-to-date info on the basics of Internet marketing in these books, but you will find fascinating insights into the history of advertising and direct marketing from the pioneers of the business. No design library is complete without one or all of these classics.
"My Life In Advertising" and "Scientific Advertising" by Claude Hopkins
“Tested Advertising Methods" by John Caples
"Confessions of an Advertising Man" and "Ogilvy on Advertising" by David Ogilvy
"The Copywriter's Handbook" by Robert Bly
"Hey Whipple, Squeeze This" by Luke Sullivan
Hope this helps. Good luck and good reading! – Rob Davis, Rob Davis Design
Thanks, Rob, for sharing this important information with us!
Now, here's an email from Christina, with a question you too may have …
Back in 2003, I paid for the entireGraphic Design program. Shortly after receiving it, I had several events in my life that demanded nearly all of my time.
I now have the time to devote to the program. In looking over other questions and comments from program participants, it seems the program content and assignments are stillbasically the same. Although I never saw any sort of time limit, I thought I should ask: Can I still submit assignments? – Christina
Thank you for your email, Christina – and welcome back to Graphic Design Success! At AWAI, we understand that life's challenges do not always allow designers enrolled in the program to stay on track. We understand that sometimes they need to take a break and attend to other urgent matters.
That is why we do not set a time limit on the submission of your assignments. This is a self-study program, designed so you can proceed at your own pace. And we are always here for you in case you need any assistance with the material. So feel free to submit your assignments whenever you are ready … and please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
That's it for now. Until next time …
Kristin
The Professional Writers’ Alliance
At last, a professional organization that caters to the needs of direct-response industry writers. Find out how membership can change the course of your career. Learn More »
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