I must admit, Heskett's chapters 7 and 8 seemed very dry. It was hard to pay attention! The chapter on systems seemed like common sense to me. It basically said a system is a group of elements that form a collective entity. It went on to describe maps and signs and how they need to be easy to read and functional. I feel like just by growing up in our society we should have noticed that our signs are simple and easy to read! I guess there are people out there that don't notice visual stimulations as much as I do though. The previous chapter on identities was more interesting because it talked a lot about the logos of brand name companies and products. It's amazing how people attach so much nostalgia to inanimate things, such as the British telephone booth. And also how enraged people get when the identity of their object changes. For instance, everyone gets so angry when facebook makes a new layout, but after a few days, no one seems to be able to remember what the old one looked like! Although, I do feel a little twinge of regret when a company gets a new or updated logo. I remember stocking the new Pepsi cans when I was working at a convenience store one summer, thinking "well these just suck! What is the world coming to!" However, when I look back at old family pictures where I am sitting with a vintage Pepsi can in front of me, I smile. It was a different time back then and I am reminded of those young days, so long ago. Plus, the new Pepsi can isn't so bad, it kind of has a little smile in it, which grew on me of course. And when Pepsi changes it again, I'll have new memories to be nostalgic about. (:
old pepsi cans new pepsi cans
