PROPOSAL GUIDELINES
On Tuesday, February 13, each team will present a conceptualization and
visualization of a promotional exhibition or product for the brand “Cracked Pixels.”
This proposal should include definition of a concept, decisions about what it will look
like, a list of required technological components, and other information necessary to
convey the value of the project to potential/theoretical funding sources. Because of
the competitive nature of these types of projects, the presentation and aesthetics of
the proposal itself requires innovation, surprise, challenge, conviction, seduction
and information.
Your team is expected to demonstrate prototyping and pre-visualization skills.
Application of these skills may occur in the form of 3D models, annotated
illustrations, diagrammatic flow charts, and/or project journals. You must be able to
define a process methodology, and to adequately manage the team structure to
ensure consistent, progressive development. Your team must also exhibit a
proficiency and facility with preparing formal written proposals and planning
documents. Case study research, analysis, and reflective writing will support the
final project proposal. Proposals should be clear, concise, and speak appropriately
to intended target audiences.
The proposal documentation will consist of the following materials:
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Project Description: A concise written articulation of the thematic,
conceptual, and aesthetic objectives of the project. The project description
should outline the basic scope of the project in clear, direct, and objective
language. Avoid overly-descriptive terminology, and limit discussion of
technical criteria and theoretical considerations. This brief statement should
serve as a layman's introduction to the project, illustrating the work in
simple, straightforward vocabulary.
References and Resources: Include an annotated list of potential
readings, resources, and reference materials, which you plan to consult in
developing your project. This list might include sample artists' work,
books/articles, technical manuals, individuals in the community, etc..
Technical Specifications: Provide a detailed summary of hardware,
software, and equipment requirements. Be as detailed as possible,
including cables, electrical outlets, network connections, physical support
structures, audio equipment, etc..
Budget: The initial budget proposal must indicate the overall funding pool
available for the entire project ($100), and itemize the high-level allocation
for various areas. Consider the major domains (i.e. research, materials,
transportation, rentals, printing, etc.), outline their scope, and assign funds
accordingly. Do not underestimate costing, and be as detailed as possible
in defining potential costs incurred (i.e. coffee or lunch with interview
subjects, transit fares, photocopying, etc.). Ensure that you include a
contingency fund, and provide a mechanism for tracking the actual
spending which will occur over the course of the project development.
 You should consider a 2-tiered budget, which addresses the ideal
funding situation (i.e. receipt of additional sponsorship/donations),
versus the secondary plan which is based on currently available
funds. An indication of materials and services which will be
provided 'in kind' (by donation or volunteer service) should be made
explicit.
Timeline: Using the initial course milestones as a guideline, construct a
week-by-week calendar of project goals and tasks. Indicate what specific
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deliverables will be expected for each date, and the role that each team
member will perform in accomplishing these tasks. You should also suggest
how progress will be monitored, and who will be charged with managing
project deadlines (i.e. assign a project leader/manager).
Profiles: Provide a brief biographical summary for each project member,
including educational background, previous experiences, and relevant
experience. Define the proposed roles and tasks for each member of the
team, and relate to their field of expertise.
Diagrams, Models, Illustrations, Storyboards, Work-In-Progress:
Include 2D renderings, 3D models, interactive samples, mock-ups, and
work-in-progress. These materials will help to visually suggest a direction
for the finished project, and may convince a potential audience of your
professionalism and commitment to this study. While it is important to
provide thorough documentation, you should also exercise a level of
discretion in selecting materials for inclusion (i.e. do not include all rough
sketches and conceptual diagrams; include only the most compelling or
informational samples for consideration).
Further Development: Outline any skills, materials, research or other
items which need to be investigated prior to further development. This list
might include software tutorials/training, materials sourcing and pricing,
research field trips, interviews, or experimental testing and evaluation.
The proposal materials will be gathered together as a single document, with copies
to be submitted to both the instructor, and the communications team.