Showcases vs Case Studies
A new portfolio way to showcase your projects
Case studies have been the key to getting a job in the Design Industry; but what if that isn’t always the case? What if things were to change in the Industry. This article is to spark that change, to inspire your thinking, what you think is best for your portfolio and to join the conversation of Showcases vs Case Studies.
What is a case study?
Case studies are detailed narratives that showcase a designer's work, process, and problem-solving abilities on a specific project.
What a Case Study Includes:
Client Problem/Goal: Clearly articulate the issue or objective the project aimed to address.
Designer's Role: Explain the specific tasks and responsibilities the designer had within the project.
Problem-Solving Process: Describe the methods, tools, and approach used to tackle the problem.
Project Outcome: Highlight the results, including both tangible metrics and qualitative insights.
Visuals: Include screenshots, wireframes, mockups, and other visuals to illustrate the design process and final product.
Narrative: Craft a compelling story that explains the project's context, challenges, and how the design solution was developed.
You can find more on what a case study is and how to break it down within your portfolio: All About Process: Dissecting Case Study Portfolios and A visual guide to writing portfolio case studies.
So what is the deal with Showcases?
A showcase is a collection of a student's or professional's best work, designed to highlight their skills, accomplishments, and achievements.
It’s almost the same as a Case Study, but it really highlights your knowledge and skills within the project.
Some benefits for a Showcase may include:
Your audience comes more into play when it comes to showcase portfolios as its based on your ideas, your accomplishments and key points on the project.
Students are able to be creative as they highlight their work and skills.
This allows students to reflect and speak about their project and any achievements they have received within their project.
Know more about showcases benefits and structure at Using Portfolios as a Showcase Tool.
femke.design also talks about what are showcases in a video, I highly recommend as she really breaks down the difference and why it can be important to know the difference.
I feel like now more than ever, the question for you is: Which one would you go about within your portfolio?
The question I have for the industry is: What is one that can get you a job vs being passed on?
Is this something that only UI/UX designers struggle on or can it be used throughout the art and design industry to help people become more successful in their work and getting more clients.
Let’s know below in the comments what you think!