We’re always looking for new ways to improve our skills.

For media that means studying effective negotiating, reading articles, and researching trends. We subscribe to a number of research platforms—Nielsen, eMarkter, MRI, just to name a few.

We use Lynda.com to hone our skills with the evolving software we use to create—for design, web development, audio & video. Subscriptions are $25/month and you get unlimited access to a vast library of high quality, current, and engaging video tutorials.

So when we find a new way to learn (See: Coursera), we have to share it. Enter Treehouse. It’s a new way to learn how to design and develop for the web and iOS. Their about page says, “Our mission is to bring affordable Technology education to people everywhere, in order to help them achieve their dreams and change the world.” Although we haven’t tried it yet, we think this is a noble mission, and they are a business worth mentioning. Again, it’s only $25/month to learn.

How do you stay current with evolving software? Are you planning to check out Treehouse?

Check out their video here.

I move things around until they look right.” - Milton Glaser.

This is one of a series of many videos, titled On Creativity, by Superfad. Makers earnestly and intelligently discuss cleverness and imagination.

(via Swiss Miss)

The other day I asked some folks about their creative process, and then transmuted it into a story.

As a post script to that story, Senior Art Director Donna VonDerLinn sent me this tweet, to demonstrate the fundamentals of design. It’s a cool video!

@AlexGWeiser An illustration of my fundamentals of design response to your be more creative question - vimeo.com/32944253

— Donna VonDerLinn (@DonnaVonDerLinn) July 3, 2012

The Fundamental Elements of Design from Erica Gorochow on Vimeo.

Chip Kidd doesn’t judge books by their cover, he creates covers that embody the book—and he does it with a wicked sense of humor. In one of the funniest talks from TED, he shows the art and deep thought of his cover designs.