I had the privilege of having drinks with Ellen Lupton last week (think: water + 50 other people in the room). Her topic: “what is design and design thinking?” Defining design is like catching a slippery pig with greased hands. Many have tried, few have succeeded. Ellen didn’t try to catch the pig, but gave [...]
Redesign vs. Realign, What’s a Website to do?
I once heard myself answering the question “should I redesign my site” with a question “do you think your website could perform better?” Which is the same as saying “yes.” I would like to expand and argue with myself. Yes, I believe all sites can increasingly become more effective but the real question is should [...]
Journey & Immersion -Sites We’re Inspired By
We’re always out looking for new trends and inspiration. Recently, we’ve noticed a few things in the world of the web that have us pretty excited and, yes, inspired! They chose not to allow the page to feel like one LONG straight line, but, instead, guide the user through in a thoughtful journey—which includes visual rest [...]
A New Year’s Wish from openbox9 to You
For many, this is a tough time of year! There’s much to be done and many expectations to be met. But wait, there’s more! From us here at openbox9 to you, congrats on getting through another year! Congrats on making so many improvements in the way you see the world, treat others, treat yourself, and [...]
design can be busy
The rise of the design eye and the ability to articulate what one likes and dislikes has ascended. This common appreciation for aesthetics and design between design-laymans and designers has been wonderful — it’s much like when I travel to france and try to say “I want a comfy chair” in their dialect — they [...]
our recipe for the creative process
Today I’ll be sharing with you my thoughts on our creative process, also known as our recipe for good design. Hello there, I’m Hannah, the newest member of the openbox9 team. Here are our basic steps of the creative process and some important lessons I learned along the way. 1. Start with your shoes on [...]
Our Guide to Writing a “Request for a Proposal” (RFP)
To Start Before you begin writing your RFP, its essential to have done some research into your needs. About.com has a good example, “Don’t issue an RFP for a machine that can produce 1500 widgets per hour when you have never sold more than 25 a month.” Its appropriate to distinguish between the things you [...]
proofread. proofread. proofread mark cheat sheet.
Once you’ve proofread you’ll need to clearly indicate the changes that need to be made, that much is obvious. Proofreading marks are devices that specify needed corrections on draft documents. We know what you’re likely to think, most of the work we do is now done digitally, so how is this relevant? Well, if you’re [...]
A church and design : Crossroads 09
At many churches, activity and the need to promote them is always on flurry mode. Crossroads Church in California is no different in that regard but it is special in the fact it loves good design. We have had many opportunities to enjoy the creative process with them – here is just a small sampling [...]
New Wildlife Website for the Nation (in progress)
In the spring of 09, National Wildlife Federation sent out a survey to its constituents presenting the new website design. Happily, the profanity used was in adulation not condemnation for the designs. Which is a proud success note as from day one of the design strategy, a great amount of time was spent thinking through [...]









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