Specification

In some ways, making this report has been the most challenging output packet process to date. I feel this is mostly due to the fact that this is my last OP and therefore carries the most weight psychologically and emotionally. Its liken to running a long marathon, being so close to the finish line, knowing the end is in sight, but can't help the nagging urge to collapse from exhaustion and 'throw in the towel' before its over. I began crafting this OP based off of a design implemented by fellow associate, Laura Kastelle, as Jennifer English, my main advisor, (whom I will also refer to throughout this OP as Jen & Jennifer) had recommended I view her work in order to reference best practices. Even though I was overwhelmed by the high-caliber of her design models and overall framework integration I ignored my instinct to stay simple and instead chose to challenge myself by attempting to mirror her use of the 8 shields model as a central design system in relation to my capstone phase and apply it to my own OP5. After creating an initial draft and reviewing it with Jen, it was clear to me that I was causing myself extra stress and anxiety by trying to implement Laura's framework into my own and that choosing a more basic design layout would prove to be the most stabilizing and effective choice in proceeding to create my OP. After this realization, I created a new set of pages featuring the basic criteria for OP completion and proceeded to create the report you are reading now. Making Output Packets over the years has been a powerful process which has helped me hone my skills of organization, presentation, and self-reflection. My writing skills have improved dramatically as well, especially when it comes to consolidating large concepts and thought forms into clear and concise ideas and points. I am grateful to Gaia U for helping me to flex my skills as a writer, communicator, designer, active learner, artist, and inspired human. 

Process

For the design of this OP, I used a basic template layout based on essential requirements crafted by my main advisor, Jen English. At first I tried integrating a design model throughout the framework of the entire OP. After meetings with Jen and reflective analysis, I found that this initial goal was overcomplicating my process and so for sake of time and workflow I decided to use the simpler model and instead feature a specific page dedicated to the topic of design and my experience with it (page 3 of this OP). I laid out each page with sections headlining specified requirements and then proceeded to fill in the criteria accordingly. Personally, I feel that this straightforward, linear approach to OP creation is the most efficient and effective way for me to design and implement my output packet work.  

Goals

My main goals in designing this output packet were to

• Present my report in a cohesive and well organized way
• Fulfill all requirements and criteria for a well-made, complete OP
• Provide a clear sense of structure and ease of navigation 
• Share my personal process of design and how I relate it to my work as a developing artist and band leader