I’m addicted to the BBC TV series, Top Gear. I’m not sure if it’s the dry humor, the amazing cars, or simply the British accents that make the show so delightful. Whatever it is, I’m addicted.

Last week I watched a rerun of this 2007 episode, featuring the Porsche 911 GT3: a stripped down, no-frills, raw power, sports car.

Starting at 1:45 in this segment, host Richard Hammond explores what a “daft” idea it is to design a car with an engine in the back. Yet after 40+ years of designing 911s, German engineers and designers are showing no signs of moving the engine forward.”It’s like building a pyramid with the pointy bit at the bottom… that should be rubbish.”

As Hammond notes, “German engineers don’t do u-turns, so it’s still out there in the back. Wherever it is though, what an engine!”

Although the 911′s rear-engine seemed like a stumbling block, it didn’t negatively impact the Porsche’s performance or design at all.

For me, this was a huge epiphany.
And a little freeing.

I’m a bit of a perfectionist. I want every detail to be perfect before I “ship” anything.

Our firm uses tools like Basecamp, Google Docs, and more, to catalog our processes and communicate with our clients. It’s easy for me to get caught up in the imperfection of what the to-do lists look like, or that they aren’t color-coded the way I might like. And while the perfectionist in me sees these types of things as “problems,” they’re actually more akin to the engine in the back of a Porsche.

If this is freeing for you and your team too, keep these things in mind:

• Identify tools and processes that help move you forward.
• Design within your proven processes, and don’t let them slow you down.
• Ignore the imperfections of any “rear-engine” issues.
• Watch more British television.

What are the rear-engine problems in your organization? How can you design and innovate around them? Please share your ideas below.

With Super Bowl XLVI being hosted here in Indianapolis, we’ve had some unique insight into the time and energy it takes to plan and execute the Super Bowl experience. Similar to building a Bold and effective brand strategy, Super Bowl prep is no simple task. Here are a few similarities that the two share:

1. Planning Starts Early.
Indianapolis won the bid to host the 2012 Super Bowl in May 2008. That means it has taken roughly 45+ months of preparation. Although the game is being held in Lucas Oil Stadium, there is much more that comes into play such as hotel accommodations, way finding, parking, etc. which required the city to evaluate the impact of hosting beyond just the stadium.

Whether you’re in the early phases of hiring a branding firm, building a brand intentionally or you’re maintaining a strong, existing brand, it’s important to make time to evaluate the big picture. How is our web presence impacting our brand? Is our internal culture consistent with the brand we’re trying to establish? Every decision you make has an impact on the brand to some capacity.

2. Defining Roles is Essential
The Indianapolis Super Bowl Host committee consists of 32 staff members and 3 legacy project members. Each member has specific responsibilities that are required if the event is going to be successful. If one or two committee members slack off, it’s going to make it harder to achieve the level of success the city is aiming for.

Metaphorically speaking, your brand has a committee too. You have a number of players that, when working collectively, can maximize the perception and success of your brand. Instead of people, your committee is made of your logo, your voice, web presence, print collateral and internal culture. Defining brand elements will keep you in control of your brand rather than your brand (or lack there of) preventing you from greater success.

3. Connecting on an Emotional Level
Game day is quickly approaching and downtown Indianapolis has been transformed into Super Bowl Village. From a local perspective, excitement in Indianapolis has reached a whole new level. Now we know which two teams will be competing for the championship, and excitement is gaining momentum on a national level too.The local and national buzz regarding the Super Bowl only adds to the anticipation but also contributes the Super Bowl brand.

What are people saying about your brand? Most of what’s being said is emotionally driven—it’s positive or negative. Emotions play a role in “business decisions,” and if your prospect can’t find an emotional connection with some aspect of the brand, it’s going to be an incredibly difficult sell.

4. Commitment and Follow Through Are a Must
Not only does the Indianapolis Super Bowl Committee have specific roles but they also have commitments. Without the commitment of following through they are left with only great ideas. Unfortunately, great ideas aren’t enough to successfully host the Superbowl.

Some of the strongest and most well-known brands that exist today are successful because their companies are committed to the integrity of the brand. They understand the importance of identity and have taken time to plan, define roles, and connect emotionally with their audience. Most have extensive brand guidelines that map out exactly how to handle the visual aspects to the brand. Every decision that impacts their brand is made intentionally.

5. Always Seek Out Ways to Improve
Over the past 45+ months, I’m sure tweaks were made to the Super Bowl Planning process to enhance the experience. We are just days away from the big game, and already Indianapolis is receiving great reviews nationwide. When you plan early, you’re giving yourself time to adjust along the way. This is also true for your brand. It’s imperative in a competitive market to be continually improving your message and awareness.

We’re only 30 days into the new year, and you still have plenty of time to plan and develop your bold brand. Choosing to build your brand with these five similarities in mind will result in a brand strong enough to withstand our rapidly changing world. It’s not a quick and easy task, but it’s never too early to start the conversation.

Have you been downtown to see the Super Bowl Village? Which element had the greatest impact on your experience?

Recently we were contracted by Starla West International to improve and enhance their overall messaging and brand identity. One piece of this included a full website redesign.

Click the image above to see the changes made on the homepage.

Our goal was to increase usability and overall navigation throughout the site, with a fresh new look that speaks to the target market. Below you can see some of the unique features that were introduced on the new website.

1. Collapsible Sub Navigation. The collapsible sub navigation for the Corporate and Individual pages allow the viewer to easily navigate within the current section.

2. Graphic Banners. Along with the increased functionality of the site, we also wanted to enhance the overall message and voice. The banners create a sense of style and hierarchy and aid in navigation throughout the site.

3. Interactive Calendar. We created a custom calendar that allows the viewer to easily find events and view specific event details, all within this site.

4. Calendar Details & Integration. Usability is extremely important on the web, and this calendar allows you to seamlessly toggle between the calendar view and the event details.

5. One Click Registration. On the events page, we incorporated a sidebar feature allowing one click registration for five upcoming events.

6. Custom Twitter Feed. A custom feed that pulls the three most recent tweets.

7. Condensed Blog Posts. Creating condensed blog posts allows the viewer to quickly scan for the post they are interested in. Once you read more, you can Retweet, Like, and comment.

 

8. Randomized Testimonials. We implemented a testimonial randomizer within the CMS, which also condenses and links to the full testimonial.

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Overall they were very pleased with the visual and functionality improvements on this website. Check it out for yourself at StarlaWestInternational.com and see the features live.

We would love feedback, so feel free to comment on the redesign.

Welcome to 2012. Thank goodness. 2011 was a horrible number to kern.

It’s easy to get caught up in the holiday hullabaloo and forget to reflect on what you accomplished. We’ve had the opportunity to work with some great clients in 2011 and 2012 is looking even better. Today we sat down and reviewed the logos we created for 10 companies in 2011. They include a wide range, from a civil engineering firm to a children’s app store resource for busy parents. Each is unique yet fits well into their respective marketplace.

So, take a gander through these works and then take a moment to reflect on what you accomplished last year.

client: 250OK // email deliverability

client: BEA Consulting // higher education resource

client: HWC Engineering // civil engineering firm

client: KinderTown // an app store resource for parents

client: Lappin 180 // consulting firm for sales teams

client: Pam’s Party to Beat ALZ // event to benefit Alzheimer’s

client: PureZen Dentistry

client: RFP Attorney // online resource for attorneys and clients

client: SMPS Heartland // regional professional services marketing event

client: Starla West International // image consultant

The holiday spirit is in full swing here at Miles Design with Christmas less than a week away now. While each of us enjoys challenging branding and design projects all year, every December we look forward to dedicating our time to some extra-special holiday “projects.” You may be familiar with our custom-designed holiday cards, but one of the holiday traditions we’ve come to enjoy most is adopting a family in need for Christmas.

This year we adopted a family through Dayspring Center—a center providing shelter, clothing and meals for homeless families with children in central Indiana.

We designated a day early in December to do our shopping, and the day started off with a quick breakfast together before we split off into teams to find the gifts that best met the needs and desires of our family.

Our family this year included three boys, ages 4, 8 and 12, and two girls, ages 5 and 10.

We found it fitting to send the guys after the gifts for the boys, who requested action figures, toy cars, a football and a basketball, in addition to clothes. The ladies sought out the gifts for the girls, including new clothes and pj’s, Barbies, play jewelry, perfume and “girly things”. For the parents of these five young ones, we purchased a grocery gift card, some festive hand towels, and a variety of holiday treats to indulge in together.

And what’s just as fun than the shopping? Watching designers meticulously wrap the gifts. It’s a process—no doubt—and the result (as long as you’re not using “peel & stick” labels from Walmart, or bows from CVS, which would more appropriately be named “peel and tear”)… a beautiful presentation to adorn one deserving family’s Christmas tree.

What a joy to give to a family in need. Our hope is that their Christmas morning is filled with blessings that carry into the whole year ahead. We hope the same for you and your family, as well.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Christmas is less than two weeks away now (yikes!), and the time remaining to purchase those all-important gifts is ticking away. No need to panic yet though. In the spirit of holiday giving, we’re sharing a few things from each of our Christmas (or every day) wish lists. Who knows, maybe we’ll spark an idea for that hard-to-buy-for person lingering on your shopping list. Happy holidays and happy shopping!

Brian Gray



Fabien Barral Letterpress Calendar
I bought the 2011 version of this and really liked it. The 2012 is available now.

Moleskine Squared Notebook & Moleskine Pen
I also usually buy a couple of these notebooks every year. I’m sort of lost without them. And, it would be nice to have one of the pens to go with them.



Brooks PureConnect Running Shoes
I’d like try these new minimal running shoes on for a couple of miles.

Joshua Cook



Studio On Fire Book—Iron Beasts Make Great Beauty
The book’s craft and portfolio displayed inside makes Studio On Fire’s Iron Beasts Make Great Beauty too inspiring not to have in my personal library.



simplehuman Sensor Trashcan
My wife and I have been looking for a stainless steel trashcan to match the appliances in our new kitchen. Simplehuman’s purpose statement and sleek design makes this decision a no-brainer.

April Miles



OtterBox Defender Series iPhone Case
I would love to pretend that I need an OtterBox case for my iPhone because I let my 4 year old daughter play games on it, but the truth is, I shattered my first phone myself and likely would have shattered this one by now, without a “Defender.” My current, plain black Otterbox is aging, so I’m hoping I might find this one under the tree this year.

Jon McClure



Miniot Cover
Every couple of months, I find myself looking for new cases/covers for my iPad or iPhone—but this cover could end my search. Often usability comes second in most great ideas, but this case has the style and functionality that I need.



UI Stencils Browser Sketch Pad
Using a moleskin notebook can be a great start to laying out your website. But when the time comes to get serious, I think these Browser Sketch Pads are perfect to see the layout and overall proportion.

Josh Miles



BIS Publishers Brand Memory Game
This is a great way to improve your “brand literacy.” I’m guessing you’ll know more of these than you think!

Amanda Blackburn



Baggu Reuseable Bags
I bought a handful of these bags many years ago, and I still use them almost every day. Since, they’ve come out with a whole array of fantastic colors that I’d love to add to my collection.



Tiny TOMS Classic Shoes
My son doesn’t really “need” shoes yet, but I love these little versions of the adult TOMS for when he does. Also, it feels good to support the TOMS One for One Movement with every purchase.

What about you? What’s at the top of your wish list this Christmas?

Even more love to share.

Our team is very pleased to continue our holiday tradition of designing holiday cards for our friends, family, and clients. Each card is blank inside, so they’re perfect for spreading holiday cheer.

We wanted to share our inspirations and thoughts behind each design. We hope you’ll enjoy sending them as much as we have enjoyed making them. Happy Holidays!

Card 1 of 7 // Imagined by Amanda Blackburn

2011 has been an exciting year for my family. We welcomed our first son, Graham, into the world in July, and it’s been pure joy (and sleepless nights) ever since! I’m constantly amazed at how quickly he’s growing and changing, and my wish this holiday season is simply to enjoy him. The hustle and bustle of the holiday season will come and go, and I’m sure we won’t get to everything. That’s ok though. At the end of the day, my joy is sitting right in front of me, playing with my fingers and grinning back at me with his big, bright eyes. And, that’s all I really need for Christmas this year!

Merry Christmas, and may you surround yourself with joy and love this holiday season!

Card 2 of 7 // Imagined by April Miles

I’ve realized recently that with every passing year, holiday traditions become more meaningful to me. I love the nostalgia of childhood memories and the anticipation of creating more memories with our ever-growing extended family and friends.

Each year I look forward to pulling the Christmas decorations out of storage, including my favorite wreath with red berries. We moved into a new home this past summer and have enjoyed finding the perfect spot for each holiday decoration in our new space.

I’ve found myself looking out the window on several occasions, trying to imagine our first Christmas in this new home and the new-to-us landscape covered in snow.

And, I’ve found myself hoping more than anything, regardless of where the days are spent—in very familiar places or places that are just starting to feel like home—that the days are merry, bright, extremely peaceful, and maybe even white.

Card 3 of 7 // Imagined by Ben Seal

Everyone celebrates the holidays differently. I love hearing about unique traditions and one-of-a-kind recipes. To me, they’re a part of the charm of the season. To that end, I hope this card compels its recipients to think about—and appreciate—their own customs. No matter how zany.

Card 4 of 7 // Imagined by Brian K Gray

I wanted something simple and elegant, much like the way Christmas is supposed to be. Too often we get caught up in the retail craziness of today’s Christmas and lose the true reason for the holiday. Soft, whimsical lines create a wintery pattern of silver, while a simple, blue “Merry Christmas” is nested in the middle. Enjoy Christmas with friends and family, but in the midst of all the chaos, remember to take a moment and celebrate the birth of Christ.

Card 5 of 7 // Imagined by Joshua Cook

Before we become immersed in the complexity of the holiday season, I wanted to design a card that focused on a simple, yet profound, aspect to Christmas. Not Black Friday, not snowflakes nor candy canes, but rather a gift offered to all of us. A gift of Love, Grace and Redemption.

Card 6 of 7 // Imagined by Jon McClure

I wanted to create something simple and elegant; something you’d feel good about sending. Because, if you like this card well enough to send it to someone on your list, it just might save you yet another a trip to the store. And, in the time you save, maybe you’ll get a few extra minutes to share with family and friends.

Card 7 of 7 // Imagined by Josh Miles

Growing up outside of South Bend, a regular recipient of “lake effect snow,” there was often a blanket of white drifting between the trees in my parents’ back yard. It would begin falling in late November and finally recede sometime in April. But every so often, through all of the sleet and snow, one of Mom’s backyard bird feeders would be graced by a pair of cardinals. It’s amazing what a little splash of color will do for your soul during a long, cold winter. It always brought me hope that perhaps spring was near.

This year my wife, daughter, baby to be, and I moved into an older home with lots of trees. Looking out at our back yard I’m greeted by squirrels, chipmunks, and of course, a multitude of birds.

While thinking about my Christmas card design for this year, our new setting brought back memories of my parents’ back yard, and those colorful splashes of inspiration.

It’s with these warm feelings that I’m passing along to you: Happy holidays, Merry Christmas, and be sure to keep those bird feeders full this season. Matthew 6:26

Note: We do have a few extra sets this year, so please contact us if you’d like a set yourself.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Are you on our mailing list? If you’ve never received our Holiday Cards, you’re in for a treat! Please add your information below and we will send you our seven-card set of the 2011 Miles Design Holiday Cards.

If the form isn’t visible below, click here to submit your info.

After speaking with professional services firms across the country, I can tell you… the fears of social media are very real.

I had the opportunity to co-host a professional services tweet chat with Taryn Erickson at SoMeffect, to discuss “Fears of Social Media.” (You can find our original questions, see: Do you FEAR Social Media?)

During our chat, we conjured up many of the fears that commonly haunt professional services firms.

What are the typical fears?
“Is social media marketing a waste of time?”
“How can you control what is being said?”
“How do we show ROI to our partners?”
“How do we know where to begin?”

Where do these fears come from? How can we learn to overcome them?

In November, we’ll be hosting a special webinar for professional services firms to help uncover some of these fears, and learn what you can do as a firm to master them. Sign up here for: The Five Fears of Social Media.

Have you overcome your fears of social media? What worked for you and your firm?

Happy Halloween!

Have you ever brainstormed ways to put your company out of business? For most of us, probably not.
Where is the future headed? Is your business model shifting? Is something coming that could erode your customer base? How can you improve communications?

Thinking about business in this way identifies threats, but more importantly, opportunities.

During a recent panel discussion, one of our clients noted a new technology that he “took a chance on” about eight years ago. Looking back he noted, it’s easy to see he “guessed right.” By staying on the cutting edge of this technology, his firm has enjoyed a “disruptive, competitive advantage.”

So what does it take to “guess right?”

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