Concept is King

I don't think I stressed this part of the process enough on the Chili poster project. You need to spend an hour or two just brainstorming ideas related to the project topic and take into consideration the parameters of the project. Create a list and write down any and all ideas - what direction do these ideas take you? At this point, it isn't visual. You visualize your concept in the thumbnail sketches - the next step in the process. You are looking for a creative way of approaching the problem. Don't rely on your initial ideas, push them and expand upon them. If you can develop a strong concept, your design efforts will have purpose and be a whole lot easier.