Task 1 - Production schedule (Time Toast)

Production schedule (TimeToast)

Induction Evaluation

Evaluation

The induction assignment was to choose a genre of magazine, and design a double –spread featuring an article based on music piracy.

Before I could produce an appropriate article with the codes and conventions of my chosen genre RNB, I had to carry out detailed research. Firstly, I prepare points for why piracy isn’t destroying the music industry, because I had to debate on whether piracy was the reason why the music industry was suffering. My group and I made several points- one point made was that experienced artists can rely on royalties and fame value, but piracy can benefit new artists because it gives them exposure. Also, people have burnt CD’s for years and that is piracy, but people do not seem as bothered by that- isn’t that the same concept? This was a great research method, as it led to me formulating clear and concise arguments. Through debating, I was able to develop points for each side of the argument. I also learnt how to formulate a better conclusion, as the other group won as a result of theirs.

I also viewed PAPER- another magazine featuring R’n’B singer Clara. It used a lot of neutral colours such as grey and pops of primary colours. I tried to use this colour scheme for my article, but I didn’t feel as if it truly matched the tone of my article- or matched the genre. Even though researching this magazine helped me to decide on my colour scheme, to improve I would research a range of magazines.

I found writing the article quite easy, in terms of the structure and informative points. My main struggle was editing it to 400 words, and also remembering to be consistently entertaining as well as informative. Overall, I am very pleased with the written quality of my article.

To design my double-page spread, I used the software InDesign. I found it quite easy to use InDesign because of the tutorial given to us beforehand. I also realise that it is definitely less complicated than Photoshop. However, I felt very restricted using InDesign for the following reasons: the colours available are limited; it is hard to experiment with layout in such restrictive software, and the general simpler editing tools. Next time, I would prefer to use Photoshop, even though it is much harder to use.

To upload my article, I used Google Blogger, and I found it quite simple to use. I like Google Blogger because it enables us as a group to comment and critique each other’s work, so we can aid each other. I found it simple enough to post on my blog and set it up.

The audience feedback was extremely helpful. From it, I learnt how to improve for my actual official AS magazine. It also showed me my strengths when it comes to designing. For example, I know that I have grasped the codes and conventions of a magazine because, 100% of the people I questioned said that the layout resembled that of a standard magazine. I also know that I am great at targeting my chosen audience because 100% of those questioned said that the language was appropriate for them. There were mixed reactions on the colour scheme (black, white and red) and the iconography. From this, I’ve learnt to use more mainstream imagery to really target my audience – and to use more popular colour schemes.

Overall, I enjoyed this process because I’ve learnt how to improve for my actual coursework.  From this experience, I’ve decided to really focus more on the layout of my magazine, in terms of adding columns and picking eye-grabbing photos. I will also remember to add in and alter little details, like adding my name at the end of my article and making sure the positions of the page numbers are appropriate. This task has taught me a great deal on how to aesthetically please my audience.

Induction Assignment - Word Article

The Changing face of the music industry

Piracy. Most are guilty of it. Music piracy has taken the music industry by storm.

Music piracy is free exchange of music via the internet. However this concept really started before the internet played a part; compact disc piracy became a problem in the 90’s where people would buy an album and then burn it for others. Websites like Napster and LimeWire became prominent and naturally, people preferred to enjoy their music for free- than to pay. Rather than dealing with the sudden disruption, the music industry pushed for this to become illegal.

 “MP3” has replaced “sex” for the most searched word on the internet. Does that surprise you? Many websites offer illegal music, for example Flvto and MakeitMP3.

So what are the negative implications of music piracy? Record labels and music artists lose out financially. According to the guardian global music sales from 2005 to 2010 had fallen by 30%. A huge amount of the artist’s income comes from their sales. Music piracy robs them.

 American star Angel Haze gave her thoughts on music piracy, stating : “When people steal music it sucks because it takes away from all the time and money we spend putting into this music.” Jessie J also said, “You can't make music for free, you can't live for free.” 

There does, however, seem to be a positive side to music industry. Many undiscovered artists are thankful as they gain fame and popularity. Established artists can rely on their fame, but artists starting out need exposure.  In a documentary “Face the Music” it was said “music has always been a shared thing”.  Kate Finkelstein- a musician said she would be “quite flattered” if someone wanted to steal her music and even more so if they wanted to buy it.  Some artists agree with music piracy because of the benefits it brings.  Naughty Boy said, “I don't like the idea of people thinking you're never going to get rich from music. You can, even with illegal downloading.”

So is music piracy a bad practice?  I do agree that it does contribute to the loss of earnings. I also agree that everyone should be rewarded correctly for their work. However, I believe that music piracy can help and not just hinder. It gives new artists popularity, increasing their fan base.  Technology is evolving so should the record label and the music industry. 

Induction Assignment - Music Piracy Article