Desk Crit (Given) #1

Date Reviewed: 10/16/08
Project: Use and Availability of Technology at Benefield Elementary
Creator: Clayton Shaw
URL: http://mrshaw24.myweb.uga.edu/EDIT6200

Clayton-

First of all, let me just say that I really enjoyed sitting with you and Joy the other night. I felt like I gained a lot of insight into what you are trying to accomplish in your project, and I came away inspired to play around with PowerPoint's new features. Your prototype was easy to follow, and the vision you painted for the project made sense. I hope you stick to the screen design you currently have, as it is attractive, it flows easily, and it is easy to navigate through. In addition, I like your thinking regarding Flash or Fireworks created graphics in motion (like the light spinning at the top of the lighthouse). You seemed to get a better idea of what you wanted to do even as we were all talking. Good luck to you as you explore these options.

At this point, my suggestions for improvement would include examining the overall scope of the project. As Joy mentioned while she was sitting with us, just make sure you don't get yourself in over your head. Your principal has asked you to do something very important for your school, its faculty, and the students who go there. It is a lot, though, so you just want to be careful. I feel like I have a lesson to learn from my own advice, as it seems our 6210 client has asked us to do a little too much, too! Anyway, it's just something to keep in mind as you describe these technologies. Also, another suggestion might be to post your official project title to the Studio website and on the page itself (it is currently titled "Aquaria by Free Css Templates"). I had to make up a title for this Desk Crit based on what I saw the other day. Finally, link to your ppt file (prototype) on your documentation page. People want to see all the hard work you've done so far!

Well, hopefully this has been of some help. I wish you luck this week and look forward to seeing the finished product in December. See you later!

Mark Caponigro