Finalised Idea

After having a discussion with one of the tutors on my ideas for this brief, I have been drawn to consider a more focused target audience which will then inform the direction of the handbook. Originally, the target audience stated would students and young professionals. However, from this discussion it became clear that students would be attracted to a free handbook, however young proffesionals would be more attracted to a publication produced to a high quality with glossy stock and a hardback cover (for example). From this there are two directions that the idea could be taken in. To influence the decision I also had discussions with peers. This was important as the direction decision cannot be a personal choice.

Discussion Notes:

- 'What have you highlighted as areas you want to specialise in/experiment more with?'  This comment made me consider the methods that I have highlighted as wanting to better my practise in, such as screen printing and book binding. The screen printing method would be less relevant to a piece produced for young professionals and would relate more to the low production cost of the handbook for students.

- 'If you're wanting to 'sell the town' to the audience then consider how much information you are going to give them.' 

- 'Producing a handbook for students would allow you to explore more with stock and design. Young professionals have more of a limited quality when looking at book they are going to buy.' Breaking this down, a student would be interested in a piece produced with poor quality and a higher quality gloss print stock whereas if a young professional who goes to independent bars/restaurants/shops were presented with a newspaper printed piece to purchase in these places, they would be less likely to interact with the publication. This is a matter of opinion and is a speculation I have made from the discussion. 

Finalised Idea

A free hand book for students (more specifically freshers) who have an interest in going to independent bars, restaurants and shops. The aim would be to inform them of the facilities in Tynemouth and showcase what is available in the town. This would be done by presenting the appropriate photographs that were taken alongside considered text. The piece would also include a minimalist map of where the places could be found.