We chatted with, PlaceWise Senior Visual Designer, Ross Dylan, to learn more about web design trends, and how he got started in the field of design.

Q: Are you seeing any new trends in web design?
A: Responsive web design is a trend that we’re exploring with some current projects. The idea behind developing a responsive site is that the layout of the content adjusts to look great at any screen resolution, from a 27″ cinema display to a smartphone or tablet device. I’m also noticing more and more creative ways advertisers are reaching consumers in fun and interactive ways.

Q: How did you get your start in the creative field?
A: I started designing for print back when Apple first released the Power Mac G4. Zip drives were all the rage back then. When marketing efforts transitioned to electronic media, I shifted my focus accordingly. I’ve been designing for the web for 7 years now, always looking to stay up-to-date with best practices and emerging trends.

Q: What’s the most important part of the design process?
A: Before I even think about pushing a single pixel around, I gather as much information as possible about a client, their audience, and their particular goals for a project. To me, success in design comes much easier if everyone is on the same page about expectations for the task. I try to learn as much as I can about what makes a client unique, so that through design, those qualities shine through.

Q: Do you see a lot of highly custom design projects?
A: Absolutely, I thrive on projects where the client is looking to push the envelope. I’ve got a solid background in the agency environment where we focused on branding and creative, custom web solutions. Whether working with an established creative direction from a client’s agency, refreshing a current look, or starting from scratch, I love solving the diverse design challenges that come through our department, while ensuring that they’ll integrate into our industry-leading network.

Q:What is the most satisfying aspect of your job?
A: There’s a point on most projects, where I’m lost within the creative process and the ideas are flowing, the music in my headphones blaring, and the creative solutions just come easily. It’s a tossup between that and the feeling you get when a client lets you know you’ve really captured the essence of what they were hoping to see, or better yet, that you’ve surpassed their expectations.

Author Profile: Ross Dylan is PlaceWise’s Senior Visual Designer ross.dylan@placewise.com | 720.266.4832