You might have noticed that a few months ago XOOPS went through some rebranding - it has changed it's logo and overall style. The logo was the result of a contest hosted on DesignContest.net. An identity needed to be developed to convey the large XOOPS end-user community, development community, as well as the object-oriented CMS itself. A contest on DC gave Xoops the choice of many diverse and creative logos from over 20 professional designers.

DesignContest.net(DC) is at the forefront of a revolutionary outlook for online design business. Considerably in the flow of Web 2.0, DC depends on collaboration between clients (Contest Holders or CHs), designers, and a quick-to-respond administrative team. Projects typically include logo and identity design, web design, print design, and more. However right now the community of DC is looking into the possiblity of extending its services to skin design for XOOPS CMS. In cooperation with XOOPS administration DC is planning to provide the designers with the detailed materials on general functionality of XOOPS and its skinning.

So, why go with DC as opposed to a marketing or design firm? There are over 5,000 registered members with DC who are located across the globe. However, only about 2% (affectionately called the "Design Team"), are privileged to work on paid projects. The Design Team is an international network of budding freelancers, design students, and professionals. As the core of the community, the Design Team must meet requirements set by the administration. A review board pours over Design Team Applications looking for exceptional design skills, understanding of the community, and an ability to work in a team environment. Only upon approval can Design Team applicants begin interacting with clients.

Contests are easy to set-up and manage. A CH pitches a project idea to the administration. After review and deposit of prize funds, the contest begins and designers start submitting entries. During the course of the contest, the CH is able to make comments on entries and typically posts suggestions or requests. A few days proceeding the contest deadline, the CH can choose a winner. The winning designer delivers source files to the CH and, after the client has agreed that the files are satisfactory, the winning designer receives prize funds. Typically, contests last for 2-3 weeks with an average of 12 entries.

Find yourself asking, "It is a real Design Team creating real solutions for real clients. The investment must be high, right?" Wrong - prizes range from $300 to $500. A Marketing or Design Firm may only start at $500, depending on the project. DC, however, mostly targets budding freelance designers, who need exposure and portfolio experience to help propel them into the industry. Aside from freelancers, the Design Team includes designers from countries with a low cost of living, and established/professional designers who simply enjoy the spirit of competition.

DesignContest.net is home to a win-win opportunity for both designers and design-seekers alike. With its talented international community, DC is able to offer high quality services for extremely competitive pricing. Choosing DesignContest.net to create your solution means opening the door to an abundance of collaborative talent.