CMS for Existing Site May 19, 11, 8:42 a.m.

I am looking for a really simple to use CMS that allows you to define content areas in an existing page for a client to edit. Any suggestions for any open source or low cost options?

I've been looking at gpEasy, frogCMS, simpleCMS, CMS From Scratch, CMS Made Simple, etc.

80s characters Oct 21, 10, 7:51 a.m.

I'm going to an 80s Halloween party this weekend. I'm having trouble coming up with the right character to be. So far I am thinking Boss Hog or John Bender. Any other ideas or pics of your favorite 80s characters? I know there are some less obvious ones I am forgetting.

freelance taxes Oct 13, 10, 8:36 a.m.

If I recall correctly, the rate that I am paying for freelance income is around 40%. It seems like that high of a tax rate would completely stifle and discourage new businesses from getting off the ground.

Other than the normal write-offs, what options have you found that help improve this percentage - like incorporating, etc.

Late for work Oct 5, 10, 5:53 a.m.

Are you always early, on time or late?

Revitalizing with Design Oct 5, 10, 8:30 a.m.

I live near a town where the entire main street is full of small businesses that are dated and have no design to speak of. I can hardly imagine that many people really going into them from off the street.

I was passively thinking about the idea of offering design services to these business, probably would have to be at a reduced rate, with the goal to revitalize them and the entire area eventually. I think they could really benefit from nice identities and signage.

I know it's a lofty idea and that working for small business can have it's dificulties. What do you think? Anyone tried anything like this?

Making Grids in InDesign Oct 4, 10, 3:50 p.m.

How do you create a grid for print? Do you do it automatically using 'Create Guides', specifying the columns rows and gutter size? Do you ever make one manually?

Improving your portfolio Sep 16, 10, 8:37 a.m.

I was wondering how many of you established designers still do self-initiated or fictional work to improve your portfolio? I know it's common for recent graduates but what about mid-career? Do you think it helps with potential employers if the work is good or does it not hold the same weight as client work?

Swiss Design Question Sep 17, 10, 12:38 p.m.

I was reading about some ideas and designs of the International Typographic Style. Looking at many Josef Müller-Brockmann posters, for instance, I was wondering if the geometric shapes have any meaning or are just arbitrary to add interest? If not, I am confused by the idea of simplyfing the design down to only what is necessary to communicate the message.

It would probably be more obvious if I could read the posters.

Poster Clients Sep 16, 10, 8:54 a.m.

How many of you have much of a demand for designing posters? I've been reading the Hatch Show Print book about what an important means of communication they were in the past and how teams of people would show up ahead of an act to plaster a city with them in designated areas.

Do you think they are as common or as important today? Also, do you find that many local bands aren't willing to pay for professionally done posters?

Sleeping at Work Aug 31, 10, 10:53 a.m.

Aside from building a bed under your desk like George Costanza has anyone mastered the art of sleeping sitting up in your chair? Anyone else have trouble staying awake at work?

Do you like people? Aug 31, 10, 11:01 a.m.

I've started commuting to the city for work again and can feel my disdain for others increasing rapidly. How do you feel about people in general?

Data Plan Cost Aug 30, 10, 1:25 p.m.

I need to get a smart phone because I can't check my email at the location I'm working at now. Is around $30 per month for a data plan and email pretty much the standard? Has anyone been able to talk their way into a better deal for this? $30 a month for 2 years seems high to me just to check email.

Skateboard Graphics May 11, 10, 6:52 a.m.

Looking at newer skate catalogs it seems like most companies have gotten really lazy with skate graphics on boards and shirts these days. Most of them are just slapped on variations of their logo now.

I guess they mostly just hire graphic designers with computer skills rather than artists who can really draw now.

Looking back I love how creative the designs were growing up as a kid.

Portfolio Site Resolution May 3, 10, 12:33 p.m.

What is the highest resolution that you think it's ok to go to for a portfolio site?

Torrent Software Feb 13, 10, 7:28 a.m.

What software everyone using now?

PDF Image Quality Jan 12, 10, 7:54 a.m.

How do you create a PDF from image files and not have it look blurry? I am using good quality png files and they come out looking like blurry jpgs at any zoom level.

Your Last Concert Jan 11, 10, 10:05 a.m.

What was the last concert you've been to?

Longboards Nov 30, 09, 1:15 p.m.

Anyone here into longboarding or riding old school skateboards?

MacBook Pro - 2 Graphics Cards Nov 25, 09, 9:36 a.m.

Do anyone know if the version with 2 graphics cards is worth the extra money? I could go without the other added specs.

Here's a comparison:
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olsp…

Laptops with Full OS Disc Oct 28, 09, 11:45 a.m.

Anyone know if any laptop brands come with full separate copies of Windows as opposed to the pre-installed/recovery junk? I would like to do a clean install once I get it.