Philosophy
The form versus function debate has undergone a trendy revival with the birth and maturation of interactive design. Although Nielsen's "usability is king" mentality supports Sullivan's original architectural theory, a natural tradeoff between functional and aesthetic richness need not be considered an unfortunate prerequisite for successful design. After all, design is supposed to be fun, right? Or at least that's what they told you in school.
Regardless of medium, the goal of the graphic designer is to present information in a visually pleasing and logical manner. In interactive design, we'd call that logical aspect "usability," and it can be examined and measured through iterative behavioral testing. In print design (where the element of user task is typically absent), the functional component evaluates whether the solution accomplishes the original communication goal. This can often be a bit more subjective in terms of measurement. Regardless of the medium, the functional component is a driving factor in the design process, and typically provides the practical rationale behind the selection of tactics and methods.
Form (or aesthetics) on the other hand, is the blending of design elements into a visually pleasing experience. Color, typography, imagery, shape – the possibilities are as exciting as they are endless. My mind wanders to the semester-long courses of design theory; and then takes comfort in the fact that although our methods, our media, and even our mood have changed over the years, the fundamental rules of composition, color theory, and typography still apply. Perhaps more importantly is the intelligent use of these elements in a holistic or Gestalt approach – selecting appropriate treatments for each element, but designing with the totality (and purpose) of the piece in mind.
My design style and philosophy stem from this union of function and form; the balance of the left and right brain. I am passionate about what the eye can see, but equally as passionate about what the mind can comprehend. I prefer simplicity in design, and advocate a diverse knowledge base to enhance the creative process. For the work of one who is well versed in the foundations of design can only be enhanced by comprehensive knowledge of other disciplines.
These are the pieces of my puzzle, and somehow they fit together. They define my philosophy about design, but also about my life. And this, my friend, is what I call Real Work.