Darren Scott - Blogs - Good or Bad?

I recently e-mailed Truth questioning them about Blogs.

Thankfully Darren Scott got in touch and gave me his opinions on the matter.

Question's and Answer's;

1. Would you recommend that students produce a blog? If so why?

I would only produce a blog if you have something notable to say that you think people may be interested in.

However, many people are using blogs as and alternative to a website to host a portfolio.

2. A lot of students aren't safe with putting there design's up on blogs due to the idea getting stolen. What would your opinion be on this?

I am afraid that is the chance we all take as designers everyday, putting your work out in the public domain will always make it subject to plagerism. The vast amount of design blogs now make it very easy for other designers to ‘borrow ideas‘ rather than being original. They have become a short cut to thinking that many are guilty of using, students in my opinion a more guilty than most.  I see many portfolios every month and they all have work very similar to high profile agencies like NON-format or people like Si Scott or they have chopped the serifs of Times New Roman and claimed it as there own. It is a sign of the times I am afraid.

3. People see blogs as a way to publicize themselves and there work, but a lot of blogs don't get a lot of hits, so what should the purpose of a blog be?

Again, I would only produce a blog if you have something notable to say that you think people may be interested in.

Many people think just because you have a blog with some work on it, people will visit in their masses, they wont. People want information or inspiration, you need to give them a reason to come back. 

4. Finally, what's one positive and negative about having a blog? 

It is a great way to share your work and love of design, it is also a great way to request feedback and get stuff of your chest. 

But, don’t expect massive hits overnight if at all.