Surely by now, news of the iStockPhoto stock logo fiasco has reached you. Regardless of which side you stand on, it’s clearly one of the many gray areas in our profession and one of many similarly ambiguous developments our industry is facing. Whether you’re in favor or not, it seems to be just another one of those things that will be here to stay.

Just the other day I stumbled upon a new project by designer Steve Zelle (who operates as idApostle) called Processed Identity. Developed in response to news from iStockPhoto and existing sites like Brandstack, Steve’s mission for Processed Identity is to “explore the creative processes designers use when defining and refining visual brands”. In doing so Steve has done a great thing: instead of attacking iStockPhoto or joining an angry mob of designers shouting at themselves, Processed Identity will help demonstrate the value of thoughtful, well considered design to both our clients and the rest of the design community.

The plan for the site (to be launched in January) is to feature the complete story of identities that have been developed, highlighting the designers’ exploration and creative process as well as benefits (and results) of a proper client/designer creative relationship. Designers will soon be able to submit their work and the storytelling behind it through a common framework that will show the value of exploration and the creative process.

I think initiatives like this highlight the underlying need to do more in demonstrating the value of design to our clients and the general public. Too often we get caught up in ranting about how spec work, crowdsourcing, etc. may hurt us as designers that we forget to communicate the potential pitfalls for our clients and their businesses. We need to communicate that design is not just making pretty pictures, but rather a strategic process that can have a significant impact on the success of a business. I have high hopes for Processed Identity and look forward to contributing after the launch. Props to Steve for taking the initiative and putting this together. Please check out www.processedidentity.com for more information.