Where to Begin your Design Analysis

Hello all,

For a class project, I will be doing a design analysis for Diamond K Leather Co. Through the course of this project, I will design a business card, letterhead and an envelope and I will be blogging every step. To start off, we are using the Analysis Synthesis Bridge Model developed by Dubberly Design, to help their designers identify an organization's needs. Take a look at the model below. For this post, we will be focusing on 'Researching' since it is a key first step in any successful analysis. Without proper research, we are unable to get a true sense of the organization's current situation and therefor will not be able to accurately address or change it.

I answered these questions when doing my research.

Describe

1) What is the product, service, or goal of the organization?

Diamond K Leather Co. sells custom, handmade leather goods.

2) Who are its main competitors?

Retail stores and other custom leather shops.

Interpret

1) What are the organization's core values?

Diamond K is about quality, authenticity and transparency. The owner values hard work and integrity, which is seen in the way the business operates. Creating friendships with customers is important.

2) How is this organization different from others?

This business is firefighter owned and everything is made right in his living room. The owner inspects every element of his work to ensure perfection before sending it out. He develops personal relationships with each of his customers and works to address any issues quickly and effectively.

3) How should the organization's image and message differ from its competitors?

Diamond K's image needs to focus on the genuineness and integrity of the owner's work. We need to highlight the idea of friendship between owner and customer. Show his commitment to each piece of work.