Packaging Design
Posted on May 5, 2008
Filed Under Graphic Design | 1 Comment
Packaging is everywhere. From the products you buy at the market, to high end goods one purchases from boutique retail. The old adage might be true, but lets face it - “books” are judged by their cover. For a unique look at some very inspirational packaging design, take a look at: Dzine Blog. They’ve amassed a handy little collection of inspirational pieces, in both volume one and two. There’s some very compelling work sure to give a little inspiration for your next project.
Starbucks Reaches Out to the Web
Posted on May 2, 2008
Filed Under Culture & Lifestyle, Web Design | Leave a Comment
Believe it or not, that ubiquitous “green machine” known as Starbucks is not doing good. Now, you’d never know it by the barrage of stores no doubt occupying your town - but the company is actually not performing well. Their stock has fallen nearly 50% in the last year, and it seems that people are suddenly questioning the concept of paying $5 for a cup of coffee when their house is in foreclosure. Not that we expect Starbucks to go under anytime soon (unfortunately), but it is interesting to see how the company has responded. And wouldn’t you know it - they’re utilizing some pretty cool creative outlets to target their remaining customers.
As if overpriced coffee wasn’t bad enough at their cookie cutter coffee shops, you can now feel the financial pinch of Starbucks’ coffee in the comfort of your own kitchen. Check out starbuckscofeeathome.com, a really slick little web site peddling the coffees available for sale. The site is a handsome blend of flash and video and even does its best to recommend the perfect brew. The execution is flawless and is augmented by tasteful sound effects. Definitely a great microsite.
Another interesting development out of Seattle (and perhaps more crucial to Starbucks’ long term survival) is the pretty sweet mystarbucksidea.force.com - the concept, perhaps long overdue… allows customers to voice their ideas and suggestions for the company. Other like minded coffee drinkers vote on suggestions they mutually deem beneficial (and the theory is) Starbucks implements them. So perhaps, the next time I order a pricey drink at Starbucks, I’ll get free wi-fi, an extra shot in my Venti drink, and I’ll be donating a penny to some less fortunate person. I’ll believe it when I see it.
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