Frequently Asked Questions Flash Splash

This section will grow over time as time permits.

Q: How long have you been a Graphic / Web Designer?
A: I graduated from The International Academy of Design in Toronto, Ontario in 1999. I started work immediately upon leaving school and learned more within the first month of "real-world" application.

Q: How did you get involved in the Design field?
A: Originally I wanted to be part of the video game industry but sometimes life can lead you down some interesting twists and turns. Ultimately I enjoy the flexibility when designing for several different clients across multiple industries although designing spaceships and monsters would have been cool too and I still try to get those in from time to time:)

Q: Which computer do you prefer using Mac or PC?
A: Whichever one works. I have used both machines for numerous years and although I have a soft spot for Macintosh I can get the same results with P.C. so long as they're loaded with a fast processor and RAM!!!

Q: Which design software do you utilize?
A: I tend to use a combination as each program has its strengths. The most commonly used include: Photoshop, Illustrator, Fireworks, Flash, and Swift 3D.

Q: I'm starting a new company and not sure where to start?
A: The most important aspect to getting your business recognized is by having a "solid" logo. Your logo should represent the essence of your business. It is around this powerful image that everything else takes shape. Ultimately you must have a single, cohesive image to help with branding.

Q: I have a website. Why doesn’t it make me rich?
A: Unfortunately, it will take more than a web presence to rake in the cash! Once your company is presented online the real work begins. It is very time consuming and should only be treated as another essential element in your overall marketing campaign.

Q: How important is content?
A: Content is the most important aspect of your online presence.

Q: Do you prefer dogs or cats?
A: Over the past few years i've grown to understand and love cats but you can't rough house with a cat quite the same as a dog. Plus I like the idea of having an animal guarding my body rather than eating it if I were to lay helpless on the floor.

Q: How do I get in the top ten on Google and/or Yahoo?
A: It takes time, money, content and patience. In the end it is very difficult to attain this position.

Q: Do you drink diet Coke?
A: Never! In fact I would much prefer taking the 10 tablespoons of sugar directly from the bag.

Q: What should I look for in a domain name (i.e. flashsplash.ca)
A: Short and sweet. Something easy to remember and spell.

Q: Do you eat Jamaican beef patties?
A: Yes! I lived off of these things throughout school. They are one of my only weaknesses. The spicier the better!

Q: How do I know you don't raise pigeons to carry out military operations?
A: You don't! ;)

Q: I noticed you have a photography section. What equipment do you use?
A: Yes, I have a photography section but i'm more of a hobbyist. I love "capturing" images and sometimes implementing them into my art. I find it relaxing and allows me the luxury of really taking the time to stop and appreciate everything around us.

Q: Did you know that lizards don't sweat?
A: Yes, and dogs sweat through their paws.

Q: Do you ever do freelance design?
A: From time to time I do create work for clients globally as well as other design firms who experience overflow. Typically between working full-time and pursuing a musical career time is somewhat limited. I have also taken on more "creative" projects to help keep my skills sharp!

Q: Have you ever ridden on the hood of a fast moving vehicle?
A: Yes. back when I was a young lad full of invincibility hormones I laughed out loud while my friend drove 80km/h down his street. Luckily I escaped with some minor scrapes.

Q: How tall is Mount Everest?
A: 29,017.16 ± 0.69 ft

Q: Did you know that Magpies can see themselves in a mirror?
A: Another tidbit for the useless facts pile!

Q: What are your thoughts on vinegar?
A: I love to dip a fresh baguette into some balsamic and extra virgin olive oil. Also it makes for a great defence against scorpions.

Q: Did you know that dogs are colour blind?
A: Most animals are but a seeing eye dog can still recognize the light position on the traffic light. I love dogs!

Q: XBOX or Playstation?
A: Playstation!!

Q: Where does my website go when completed?
A: The final files are uploaded (copied) to a server or remote computer (typically).

Q: Who are your favourite artists?
A: I love a lot of art and artist' work. I enjoy the works of Hans Reudi Giger, Hieronymus Bosch and Edmund Blair Leighton.

Q: How come my website is 7.243 inches wide on my computer at home and 5.2435 inches on your screen?
A: Please put the ruler down and back away from the monitor.

Q: How many email accounts can I have?
A: As many as you want but honestly do you really want to spend the rest of your life going through a single day of spam!?

Q: Can I have a form with 73 fields to be filled out?
A: Keep things simple for your end user and they'll love you for it. Now please put the ruler down already!

Q: How long does it take to design a website?
A: Typically 3 weeks would be minimum. This would depend upon the communication and availability between you and your designer.

Q: How much does it cost to update my website?
A: Some design firms will charge you $100/hr with an hourly minimum, even for a simple one sentence edit. I think this is mean and sorry that you are now afraid to make any changes to your website.

Q: Why am I reading your FAQs?
A: Good question. Keep going you're doing a fine job and you've made it this far!