Project 2: Package Design

After looking at various packages and observing every detail that is placed and used it is clear to me how delicate package design has to be be. It is a science in its own and has many different components that bring the entire design together. From naming to color and font choice, everything plays a part of how to make a package stand out. There are many packages that look very similar and with the human attention span will be forgotten in no time. A design needs to be able to grab the attention of the viewer, and then be able to also serve its purpose. You can have a decent design but if the package is not functional then no one will buy it.

Elements of Package Design

As stated before, there are many elements that make up a package design, and to be able to make it work in a given space. As we continue our project one thing has become clear and that is to create a system. Though we must create four different designs, that should function on their own, when the four products come together they should also be able to function in the same space. If they are too drastically different, then the package systems will fall apart easily. With package design you are essential representing the brand itself. You are branding along with creating your package. Being original and authentic with your brand and overall design of the package are key points. If you create a package that looks like other consumers it will get lost in the wave of other consumer goods. The package itself will also reflect the brand. These two ideas are interchangeable.

When it comes to package design you need to know who your target audience is. This will dictate they type of design you make. Something for a child for example would most likely be more colorful to grab their attention. While something for an older audience will focus on more subtle but complimentary colors. Keeping a nice balance with the design will make all the difference for your design. This will also mean planning out a product name that will obtain to the audience. Something that has a "child" like name such as cookie monster will most likely catch the eye of a child who sees the design and would want it. I believe other than price, a package can dictate if a consumer will buy the product.

Typography also plays a big role into the design. Being able to have a strong sense of hierarchy with your text and images. From either choosing a serif or sans serif and picking font size, this will all affect the overall design and legibility of the package. You need to know fonts that are easy to view and read and are able to work on small spaces if you need to. If your text is too hard to see or read, the consumer will just move onto the next product.