http://www.version-x.com/blog/ Version-X Design en steve@version-x.com Copyright 2012 2012-05-11T18:55:51+00:00 http://www.version-x.com/site/the_heart_foundation_2012_gala http://www.version-x.com/site/the_heart_foundation_2012_gala#When:18:55:51Z Version-X designs digital tribute journal and event graphics for The Heart Foundation’s 2012 Gala. Check out our photos from the event! After many months of hard work, our team here at Version-X is excited to finally be able to reveal the big secret project we've been working on with The Heart Foundation & Sony! Just this week, we posted about the branding work we did for the Heart Foundation's One For The Heart campaign, where they’ve partnered with American Idol to have $1 from each ticket sold to this year’s American Idol LIve! 2012 Tour donated to The Heart Foundation to support heart disease research. While that project is really exciting, it’s just a small portion of what we’ve been cooking up with this great cause. Several months back, The Heart Foundation approached Version-X with the task of injecting some excitement into the graphics and print materials for their regular gala event that honors those who help support the fight against heart disease. This year, rather than doing a printed book, Version-X suggested the idea of creating a digital book that would be handed out on electronic devices to attendees. This crazy idea became a reality when Sony agreed to graciously donate their Sony Reader devices as the platform for this year’s digital tribute book! For the last few months, we’ve been quietly working on this project to keep the big Sony reveal a secret until the night of the event. Several weeks back, 750 Readers showed up at our office and the big production officially began. Version-X was in charge of not only designing the digital book and printed materials for inside the box, but we also hand-loaded and checked each device to make sure it was working up to our standards. It’s just another example of the lengths we go to in order to make sure the job is done right! Version-X also created graphics for Sony digital download coupons, event credentials and on-screen stage graphics for the big night. The months of work finally paid off last night where the partnership with Sony was revealed at the Heart Foundation’s 2012 gala, honoring Dr. P.K. & Kimberly Shah at The Hollywood Palladium. Version-X was on hand to help make the big moment special by being part of the Sony Team to personally hand out the Sony Readers to all of the guests. The big reveal went off without a hitch and kicked off an amazing evening hosted by Ryan Seacrest with performances by Michael Bublé, Dana Carvey, Paul Anka and award presenter David Foster. Familiar faces in attendance included Gwen Stefani, Gavin Rossdale, Kirk Douglas and Paul Stanley.   We at Version-X are so glad that we could be involved in helping to make this event special for such a great cause. Special thanks to Lisa Sapiro Unique Promotions & Special Events for bringing Version-X into this wonderful event and introducing us to a amazing organization. Big thanks also go out to our friends at The Heart Foundation, AOO Events whom we worked with to create the on-screen graphics, and of course our friends at Sony. We look forward to our continued relationship with The Heart Foundation in the future! Featured, News, Design, 2012-05-11T18:55:51+00:00 http://www.version-x.com/site/press_release_vx_produces_campaign_branding_for_the_heart_foundation_partne http://www.version-x.com/site/press_release_vx_produces_campaign_branding_for_the_heart_foundation_partne#When:01:34:01Z See what we’ve been up to with The Heart Foundation in partnership with the #1 show on television. Los Angeles, May 9, 2012 – Today, Version-X, an award-winning full service Brand and Marketing agency based in Los Angeles, is proud to announce the reveal of the design, name development and copy writing work completed for The Heart Foundation for their partnership with the number #1 rated TV show, American Idol.   “We were really excited to take on the challenge of branding this campaign. This amazing opportunity suddenly presented itself to The Heart Foundation that would mean massive exposure for their cause. We knew that what we came up with had to be top-notch, yet at the same time turned around literally overnight ”, said Chris Fasan, Principal / Creative Director of Version-X.  “I am always impressed by our creative team when put to the test but this time they pulled off a feat I consider to be on par winning the American Idol competition itself”, Michael Newhouse, Version-X Marketing Director added. Version-X was commissioned to create a “campaign name” and chose the conceptual direction of playing off of “the ones”; the number one rated show in America (American Idol), the number one cause of death in the U.S. (Heart Disease) and the one dollar donation that we would be asking for.  Additional deliverables consisted of the campaign logo and marketing copy that would be utilized in places such as The Heart Foundation and American Idol websites, print material, and spoken on-air by show host Ryan Seacrest. One person CAN make a difference #1 show on television #1 cause of death in the U.S. $1 donated per ticket sold One person at a time making a difference The Heart Foundation and American Idol have teamed up in the fight against heart disease. This summer, $1.00 of every ticket purchased for the American Idol Live! Tour 2012 will be donated to The Heart Foundation’s One for the Heart™ campaign. We invite you to join with us in making a difference, one person and one dollar at a time. Find out how your ONE can help. Visit www.theheartfoundation.org/one-for-the-heart/ ######## About Version-X Founded in 1998, Version-X is an award-winning brand and marketing agency that creates online and offline engagement strategies across multiple, integrated customer touch points.  From brand inception to implementation, Version-X offers a full range of services including brand strategy/identity, web design/development, packaging design, printed collateral, online marketing, social media strategy/development, print advertisement and live event marketing.  Clients served include The Heart Foundation, Macadamia Natural Oil, Dolby, Metropolis Technology, Natural Yards, I.C.O.N., GreenBytes, Debecca Natural Foods, Orly, Decipher Inc., Disney and others.  Version-X is a privately held agency with headquarters in the Los Angeles “NoHo Art District” in California.  For media or business inquiries, please contact Michael Newhouse at 818.308.6111 ext. 31 or Michael@Version-X.com.  For more information please visit www.Version-X.com Featured, News, Design, Branding, 2012-05-10T01:34:01+00:00 http://www.version-x.com/site/spring_portfolio_review_night_our_first_vx_event http://www.version-x.com/site/spring_portfolio_review_night_our_first_vx_event#When:00:23:52Z This May, we’ll be hosting our first free event for creatives at our studio in North Hollywood. We're pleased to announce our first free event for creative professionals at our studio in North Hollywood. This first event, in partnership with Behance®, is a Portfolio Review Night for all creative professionals. The main focus of the evening will be presentations from 3 pre-selected professionals, which will be reveiwed in front of our audience by a panel of experts from different creative fields. We'll also have smaller break-out sessions for more quick, intimate reivews of your work and some extra time to socialize and meet other designers, artsis and general creatives in your area. This is a free event and it's sure to be a really fun night! Make sure to check out the website for this event to get all of the details and instructions on how to RSVP. We hope to see you there! [ Click here to visit the event website ] Featured, News, 2012-04-25T00:23:52+00:00 http://www.version-x.com/site/seeking_digital_marketing_intern http://www.version-x.com/site/seeking_digital_marketing_intern#When:21:05:27Z We’re looking for a driven digital marketing intern. If you’re addicted to social media and want to learn how to apply it to business, read this! Job Description Version-X is an independent Brand and Marketing Agency located in the North Hollywood Art District with an immediate need for a Digital Marketing Interns.  The Version-X Marketing division drives consumer engagement through social media, eCommerce,  and other digital channels.  She/he is responsible for assisting in the development and execution of comprehensive and effective marketing campaigns and plays an integral role in inspiring and converting client customers.  You must be a self-starter who is capable of effectively researching a wide range of topics, and exercising good judgment and editorial skills based on that research. Candidate must be a multi-talented Digital Marketing Intern that has a passion for all things Digital. This internship will provide invaluable exposure to progressive practices and initiatives in the field of Digital Marketing. Responsibilities Assist in the creation of comprehensive marketing strategies and programs that are aligned with client’s brand and overall marketing strategies Assist in content development and strategy to drive a clear and consistent brand message through web content, email blasts, product descriptions, collateral, affiliates, search and social networking avenues Manage Calendar, deadlines and asset coordination for Social Media, Email, Website Optimization/Conversion, SEO and SEM campaigns based on best-performing strategies, including monitoring, monthly reporting on website analytics Keyword discovery & research Works closely with graphic artists, copywriters and web developers in the functionality, sales effectiveness, design and usability of Client digital advertising, web sites, email and more. Researches, analyzes and monitors technological, trend and demographic factors and updates account management staff on findings. Desired Skills Experience Commitment to a work schedule Prefer students in programs (Marketing, PR, Journalism, Communications). Understands social media universe including Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest, YouTube, StumbleUpon, Delicious, Digg, Reddit, Flickr, Forums, Twitter, Wikis, blogs, etc Experience in digital media: web, social, mobile, webcasts Smart, analytical, creative, driven - “Gets it” and is able to deliver results quickly Self-starter, highly organized, and able to work well with individuals at all levels Strong written, oral, and visual communication skills Extremely organized with strong attention to detail Able to work independently and as part of a team; work well under deadlines Proficient in a MAC environment and prefer an understanding of InDesign (Photoshop and Illustrator knowledge will also benefit candidate) Familiarity with Content Management Software (ie. Expression Engine), Google Analytics, Hootsuite and other Online/Social Media tools *This is an unpaid internship but can work towards credits, resume builder and experience. How To Apply Please submit resume here designjobs@version-x.com Put "Marketing Intern" in the subject line of all correspondence. No phone calls. Jobs, 2012-04-20T21:05:27+00:00 http://www.version-x.com/site/seeking_design_intern http://www.version-x.com/site/seeking_design_intern#When:20:55:27Z We’re looking for the next up-and-coming design superstars to join our team. In school and ready for real-world experience? Check this out! We're looking for the next up-and-coming design superstars to join our team in a design and support role. Our office is a fun environment where you can get  hands on with real-world projects and clients and learn a lot at the same time.  Position Description An intern occupies a temporary and potential entry-level creative position in our company. This position depends on the individual’s ability level and could include any of the following: Print design and production, brand identity continuity and development, packaging design, motion design, photography, website design, Flash and web development.  Interns will also be expected to do light office work, errand running and production work. Education Enrollment in a graphic design program is preferred Experience Macintosh literacy required 1–2 years in agency or design studio preferred Proficiency with Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign is a must Web design, HTML, CSS and Flash a plus Attributes Promising creative ability Proactive, motivated, eager to learn and take initiative Good, positive attitude, accept constructive criticism well and works well with others Reports To Producer, Designer, Senior Designer, Marketing Director or Principal as is designated   How To Apply If it sounds like you might fit in around here then drop us a line at designjobs@version-x.com. Let us know who you are and what you're all about and if we like what we see we'll take the next step. Candidates only – It is NOT OK for recruiters or others to solicit this company. - - - About Us Elevator pitch: Version-X designs stunning, compelling brands and websites for our clients that succeed by avoiding conformity to the status quo. We make an effort to only take on projects that give us the opportunity to create something truly unique and memorable. If you're not passionate about design, creative marketing, technology and innovation then you're probably not a good fit for us. We believe that great design might ultimately be simple, but to achieve it is rarely easy, never obvious and always requires at least a touch of brilliance. We work on a diverse array of creative projects but happen to specialize in company or product branding, brand strategy, website design and digital marketing. Jobs, 2012-04-20T20:55:27+00:00 http://www.version-x.com/site/seeking_project_manager http://www.version-x.com/site/seeking_project_manager#When:20:43:00Z We’re on the hunt for someone with meticulous organization, witty charm and attention to detail bordering on a clinical disorder. Is that you? Read on. Version-X Design, a boutique branding, web and digital marketing agency, is on the hunt for someone with meticulous organization, can charm the proverbial pants off of our clients and has attention to detail bordering on a clinical disorder. Ideally you are a highly energetic and creative individual who can lead successful projects and foster both happy clients and inspired designers. You will manage the internal creative staff, design workflow and schedule; assist in creating estimates and maintain project budgets; assist in client billing; and be the primary contact person and liaison for clients. This is a full-time, on-site position. This is a role with room to grow, and we hope for you to quickly expand into creating proposals and presenting our agency to new potential clients. Also, capabilities to help grow our business via existing connections or business development skills are a gigantic extra plus in your favor Responsibilities Individual project ownership through full lifecycle (planning, scoping, budgeting, execution, final delivery & presentation to the client) Work hand-in-hand with senior staff in maintaining and expanding client relationships Project planning, including scope definition and budgeting Understand vision and mission of projects and communicate and evangelize to internal team members and clients Manage project quality, schedule, and budget Coordinate and guide team Daily client communication, care, and socializing Present and explain deliverables on-site and off-site to clients Attributes Impeccable attention to detail and highly organized Self-motivated and proactive Excellent communicator; both written and spoken Able to manage multiple projects simultaneously Responsible and capable of meeting tight deadlines Enjoy working in a collaborative environment Passion for quality design and innovation A thirst for learning Skills & Experience College Graduate or equivalent experience 2+ years of project management experience with design studio / agency Solid understanding of marketing strategies, design and technology Awareness of trends and innovations Problem solver who goes the extra mile to get results Ability to simultaneously handle multiple projects Technologically/computer savvy Proficient in project management platforms such as Basecamp and Harvest Positive attitude towards work assigned while continuously striving to deliver best-in-class results Experience with content management systems, HTML/CSS a plus   How To Apply If it sounds like you might fit in around here then drop us a line at designjobs@version-x.com. Let us know who you are and what you're all about and if we like what we see we'll take the next step. Candidates only – It is NOT OK for recruiters or others to solicit this company. - - - About Us Elevator pitch: Version-X designs stunning, compelling brands and websites for our clients that succeed by avoiding conformity to the status quo. We make an effort to only take on projects that give us the opportunity to create something truly unique and memorable. If you're not passionate about design, creative marketing, technology and innovation then you're probably not a good fit for us. We believe that great design might ultimately be simple, but to achieve it is rarely easy, never obvious and always requires at least a touch of brilliance. We work on a diverse array of creative projects but happen to specialize in company or product branding, brand strategy, website design and digital marketing. Jobs, 2012-04-20T20:43:00+00:00 http://www.version-x.com/site/seeking_online_marketing_coordinator http://www.version-x.com/site/seeking_online_marketing_coordinator#When:00:01:58Z We’re growing our Marketing team! The Version-X Marketing division drives consumer engagement through social media, eCommerce,  and other digital channels and we’re looking to add an Online Marketing Coordinator to our group. Job Description: Version-X Design, an independent Brand and Marketing Agency located in the North Hollywood Art District, has an immediate need for a Digital Marketing Specialist.  The Version-X Marketing division drives consumer engagement through social media, eCommerce,  and other digital channels.  She/he is responsible for assisting in the development and execution of comprehensive and effective marketing campaigns and plays an integral role in inspiring and converting client customers.  You must be a self-starter who is capable of effectively researching a wide range of topics, and exercising good judgment and editorial skills based on that research. Candidate must be a multi-talented Digital Marketing Specialist that has a passion for all things Digital in combination with Beauty and Fashion industries.     Responsibilities: Assist in the creation of comprehensive marketing strategies and programs that are aligned with client’s brand and overall marketing strategies Responsible for overall content development and strategy to drive a clear and consistent brand message through web content, email blasts, product descriptions, collateral, affiliates, search and social networking avenues Manage calendar, deadlines and asset coordination for Social Media, Email, Website Optimization/Conversion, SEO and SEM campaigns based on best-performing strategies, including monitoring, monthly reporting on website analytics Lead development and execution of email campaigns utilizing address acquisition, segmentation strategies, CRM coordination, and integrated campaigning with strong tracking and analysis to continually improve ROI Keyword discovery & research Work closely with graphic artists, copywriters and web developers in the functionality, sales effectiveness, design and usability of Client digital advertising, web sites, email and more. Research, analyze and monitor technological, trend and demographic factors and apply to clients online strategy in order to capitalize on market opportunities and minimize the effects of competitive activity. Desired Skills/Experience: Prefer Bachelors Degree (Marketing, PR, Journalism, Communications) and 2-3 years experience Solid understanding of the social media universe including Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest, YouTube, StumbleUpon, Delicious, Digg, Reddit, Flickr, Forums, Twitter, Wikis, blogs, etc Experience in digital media: web, social, mobile, webcasts Experience applying analytics to determine ROI on cross-channel marketing efforts Well-versed in site-side marketing, including user experience, navigation, and conversion Ability to synthesize and analyze data to identify trends and marketing opportunities Smart, analytical, creative, driven - “Gets it” and is able to deliver results quickly Self-starter, highly organized, and able to work well with individuals at all levels Knowledge of SEM, PPC (Google Adwords & Facebook Ads,) Email Marketing, SEO including basic keyword research Passionate about beauty, health and fashion industries Strong written, oral, and visual communication skills Extremely organized with strong attention to detail Able to work independently and as part of a team; work well under deadlines Proficient in a MAC environment and prefer an understanding of InDesign (Photoshop and Illustrator knowledge will also benefit candidate) Familiarity with Content Management Software (ie. ExpressionEngine), Google Analytics, Hootsuite and other Online/Social Media tools   Please submit resume, references, and salary requirements via email to marketingjobs@version-x.com. Put "Marketing Specialist" in the subject line of the correspondence. No phone calls please. Jobs, 2012-04-18T00:01:58+00:00 http://www.version-x.com/site/vx_receives_two_graphis_gold_awards http://www.version-x.com/site/vx_receives_two_graphis_gold_awards#When:02:07:49Z Version-X is honored to be the recipient of two prestigious Graphis “Best In Design 2012” Gold Awards. Version-X Design, a full-service branding and marketing agency, is honored to be the recipient of two prestigious International Graphis Awards. Version-X received these two highly coveted Gold Awards in the competitive category of “Best In Design” for their work on I.C.O.N. Brochures and the I.C.O.N. Website. The awarded projects will be published in the 2012 Design Annual book and featured on the Graphis website. I.C.O.N. Brochures As one of the leading high-end hair care companies, Version-X client I.C.O.N. was always focused on innovation and the future. With that in mind, I.C.O.N. needed to represent their extensive product and education offerings in a clear, easy-to-understand format. Version-X created a series of brochures and catalogs that accentuated the high quality products, programs and philosophy that defined I.C.O.N. as a company, utilizing colorful graphics and photographs and contrasting them with rich black and gray blocks. “It’s been really exciting to work with I.C.O.N. on these projects – they really like to push the visual boundaries that people might be used to – especially in the professional beauty industry. We’ve played with so many textures and colors across the printed pieces, while balancing it with a cohesive brand feel. As a designer, it’s refreshing to work with a client that’s not afraid to try new things and experiment with color, shape and form.” - Steve Silvas, Sr. Designer   "I really enjoyed getting the opportunity to jump in on some of the I.C.O.N. projects. It's always a rewarding experience to see your designs move in stages from the sketchbook to the screen to the final printed piece, but even more so when others take note." - Jason Campbell, Designer I.C.O.N. Website The I.C.O.N. website was created as I.C.O.N. refreshed their brand in preparation for their launch into the professional U.S. beauty market. The site was re-thought from the ground up to convey the new direction and provide a more intuitive and informative user experience. Utilizing emerging font embedding methods, the site was designed around using large type and custom fonts that could easily be switched between the multiple languages. The result was a streamlined, eye-catching online experience that reflected I.C.O.N.’s edgy, trendsetting appeal. “We are all really excited and honored to be receiving these acknowledgements by a true industry benchmark such as Graphis. It is inspiring to get these sort of nods of approval from your creative peers and is driving us to push our creativity even further in the coming year.” -Chris Fasan, Principal/Creative Director About Graphis The Graphis Design Annual was started in 1952 by the New York-based International Journal of Visual Communication to showcase excellence in design and visual imagery. Entries are gathered from all over the world and the best are recognized in the annual Design Book. For more information on Graphis, please visit http://www.graphis.com About Version-X Founded in 1998, Version-X is an award-winning brand and marketing agency that creates online and offline engagement strategies across multiple, integrated customer touch points. From brand inception to implementation, Version-X offers a full range of services including brand strategy/identity, web design/development, packaging design, printed collateral, online marketing, social media strategy/development, advertising and live event marketing. Clients served include Macadamia Natural Oil, Dolby, Metropolis Technology, Natural Yards, I.C.O.N., GreenBytes, Debecca Natural Foods, Decipher Inc., Disney and others.  Version-X is a privately held agency with headquarters in the Los Angeles NoHo Art District in California. For more information please visit http://www.version-x.com ### Featured, News, 2012-02-21T02:07:49+00:00 http://www.version-x.com/site/behind_the_scenes_with_macadamia_at_isse_2012 http://www.version-x.com/site/behind_the_scenes_with_macadamia_at_isse_2012#When:02:57:26Z Version-X goes behind the scenes with Macadamia Natural Oil at International Salon & Spa Expo 2012 in Long Beach, CA. At this year's International Salon & Spa Expo in Long Beach, CA, our client, Macadamia Natural Oil, was setting trends for 2012 with a video shoot to showcase all of their hot new products. VX was there to ensure that the booth we created and all of the design work were camera-ready. The official video will be revealed soon, but in the meantime, check out some of what we captured at the show and behind the scenes! Macadamia's Educational Director, Michael Cain, demonstrates some of the new products and works with the video crew to coordinate the look of the on-camera talent. VX worked with the film crew to re-create the tradeshow environment on a set to get picture-perfect shots of the product and styles.  Featured, Branding, 2012-01-31T02:57:26+00:00 http://www.version-x.com/site/macadamia_photo_shoot_time_lapse http://www.version-x.com/site/macadamia_photo_shoot_time_lapse#When:02:37:39Z 8 hours of behind-the-scenes footage in just a few minutes! We orchestrated the photo shoot for Macadamia Natural Oil's 2012 advertising campaign and we recorded a time-lapse video of the shoot so you can see just how much work goes into getting that perfect shot for a client.  Featured, Design, 2012-01-03T02:37:39+00:00