I’ve gained significant insights during the course, I’m eager to progress to level 6 to deepen and strengthen my knowledge. I’m particularly interested in applying my learning to practical scenarios that can benefit my workplace. To achieve this, I plan to assess our client base and identify opportunities to collaborate with them in establishing a project for my assignment. This hands-on approach will not only demonstrate my learning, but will also help to improve our work environment in the real world.
Setting SMART Targets
When researching into setting SMART targets I found that it could be very useful criteria for setting myself an overarching plan and some goals for my final year. Below are some takeaway points from an article I found on Forbes Advisor.
- Documenting Goals: Writing down goals and displaying them visibly, fosters a tangible connection with aspirations.
- Sharing My Goals: Fosters accountability with relevant individuals, such as my team, supervisor, or mentor. This shared commitment will help to encourage dedicated efforts toward goal achievement, especially when faced with challenges.
- Regular Progress Assessment: I will be able to consistently evaluate my progress, especially for time-bound goals. Regular check-ins, whether daily or weekly, I can identify and address issues promptly. The early recognition of obstacles will provide the opportunity for timely adjustments.
- Celebrate Milestones: Being able to acknowledge and celebrate achievements, even the smaller milestones along the way will help to boost motivation and sustains momentum throughout my final year.
My SMART Targets
User Experience (UX) Design
S: Mastering UX design principles will be crucial to ensure a smooth and visually appealing user interface, providing an outstanding experience during the configuration process.
M: Achieve a proficiency level in UX design principles, as evidenced by successful implementation and positive user feedback on at least three projects.
A: Access online UX design tutorials, workshops, and actively engage in both projects in the workplace and passion projects to apply and reinforce learnt principles.
R: Enhance user interfaces to ensure a smooth and visually appealing experience aligning with the overall goal of improving user satisfaction.
T: Attain proficiency in UX design principles throughout the remaining duration of the course, with regular reflections and milestones to track progress.
Branding and Visual Identity
S: Branding and Visual Identity: Developing a robust brand identity, including logo design, color schemes, and branding materials, will establish a recognisable and trustworthy presence in the market.
M: Create a comprehensive set of branding materials, including a finalised logo, color palette, and other visual elements presented in a brand guideline document within the time frame of the Commercial Realisation module.
A: By breaking down the branding process into manageable tasks, such as logo design, color selection, and material creation, then presentation of the brand guidelines ensuring each step contributes to the overall brand identity.
R: Ensure the brand identity aligns with the values and goals of Ragnar Racking, reflecting the company’s ethos and resonating with the target audience.
T: Complete the entire branding and visual identity process within the next three months, allowing for thorough planning, design iterations, and finalisation.
Project Development & Management
S: To gain experience in managing design projects from start to finish, while taking ownership of the entire process
M: I will assess my ability to meet project goals, timelines and receive feedback from my employer
A: I will work on project management knowledge and skills by carrying out research and planning tutorials whilst also seeking mentorship from experienced project managers within my team. I will gradually take on more project management responsibilities as I gain experience.
R: Develop management skills and taking ownership of design processes is highly relevant to my career goal, as it will enable me to be a more effective contributor to my team and employer.
T: I will achieve this goal within the next 6 months. I will break down my progress into quarterly milestones.
References:
Leonard, K. (2024) The Ultimate Guide to S.M.A.R.T. goals, Forbes. Available at: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/business/smart-goals/ (Accessed: 07 September 2023).