Making Vision Stick by Andy Stankey

Andy Stanley is an author, speaker, and the founding and senior pastor of North Point Community Church in Atlanta, Georgia.  His book, "Making Vision Stick", is very short but to the point.  Andy Stanley gives firsthand examples of why vision doesn't stick and then explains how you can succeed in making your vision stick in the hearts and minds of those you lead.  Here are some points that stood out.

•  vision doesn't stick without constant care and attention

•  the most important thing to remember - You are responsible.

•  clarify or simplify - it must be memorable

•  define the problem, determine a solution, and discover a compelling reason why now is the time to act

•  build vision casting into the rhythm of your organization

•  celebrate the wins

•  living out the vision establishes credibility and makes you a leader worth following

•  passion comes and goes, but commitment never wanes

•  Think steps, not programs

•  Pay the price.  Embrace the vision.  And do whatever it takes to make your vision stick!

Interview with Marcello Aquino

Marcello Aquino is the graphic designer and photographer for The Refuge in Concord, NC. He is responsible for all the imaging that is related to The Refuge, from branding, print design and web design to photography.

So here we go...

Marcello,

What are your tools of the trade (Computer, Monitor, Scanner, Cameras, etc.)?
The basics: Pen and Vellum paper - man, I use those a lot! PC or Mac with lots of RAM and fast processors, Wacom Tablet, cheap HP Scanner, Canon 5D plus Lenses (24-70 2.8 L, 85mm 1:2 L, 100-400 4;5L, 100mm 2:8 macro Lens and to provide lots of fun a 10mm Fish Eye) and 2 430Ex Flashes triggered with pocket wizards (wireless transceivers).

What is your favorite tool (Plug-in, Software, Equipment, etc.)?
I've been using Corel Draw for 10 years. It has a very user friendly interface. I like it better than Adobe Illustrator. I know that AI is a lot more popular here in the U.S., but I love corel draw, It will be my favorite tool along with Photoshop to add some extra spices.

Favorite Resource(s):
Collide Magazine
NAPP - National Association of Photoshop Professional
Flickr (Church Marketing Lab)
Church Marketing Sucks
Phill Cooke Books and Website
CMYK Magazine
Create Magazine
Luzers Int'l Archive to keep up with worldwide media.

Who, what, or where do you get your inspiration?
I love going to junk yards and antique stores to get inspired. There is a huge one called "Clines" in Mount Pleasant. I've heard that even famous movies directors are going there to get some props...

If you could have one thing what would it be? Why?
Deep intimacy with God! I'm striving to get there...Currently reading "The Shack" and I would love to have a similar experience. Why? God knows better and He will protect me from myself making me a better husband, father and friend!

What are the primary goals of the church as it relates to your position?
The church, in general, needs to speak a language that our culture understands.
The primary goal is to express our lead pastor's vision "visually" I know that it sounds redundant, but this in the main goal.

What hindrances do you have to overcome?
Lack of organization is one of the hardest ones along with prioritizing time: work time x family time

What is your favorite trick or technique and would you consider giving an example?
I love sketching! Paying respect for basic techniques is ones of my best tricks. So pen and paper is my favorite one. It's quite challenging when you have a project to develop and start with a blank piece of paper...That is when God shows up and we have fun together!

How did you get started in your profession?
I always loved drawing since I was a little boy! My mom can paint and draw and she gave me great incentive. I ended up getting an Architecture degree, but better than that I was exposed to Graphic Arts and Photography during college times, so they became my passion!

Readers can find out more about you by?
marcello.aquino@theRefuge.net
http://www.flickr.com/photos/aquinonline
www.triple7design.net