The following is an open letter written to Nebraska’s Governor Heineman (originally published on Facebook) following a public spec work competition for the state’s next license plate designs. More background on the original story is available here. Or, check here for a more subjective take on the matter.

One of the four options offered up for public voting in Nebraska's spec license plate design competition. Designer unknown.

Governor Heineman,

I am writing to express my opinion on the recent license plate design and selection process. As a professional designer, I can tell you that I am extremely disappointed in how the State has handled this matter.

Please understand that this is not an issue about whether the four plates currently being displayed are good or not. My concern with these license plates lies in the process, not the designs. Complaining about the options provided isn’t going to solve the problem; we need to work towards a true solution. The State of Nebraska should hire the services of a professional designer/firm and compensate them for their time and expertise, just like they pay their accountants, attorneys, and other professionals. You wouldn’t possibly think of holding a public competition to solicit free legal advice, or free building design. Holding a public design competition indicates to the people of Nebraska that you believe professional design has no value whatsoever.

Some say we shouldn’t spend precious tax revenue on projects like this. If this is a budgetary/tax dollars issue, then why spend the time and money resources on a public voting charade at all? If you’re foregoing a professional designer to save tax dollars, why are we using State resources to design various license plate options, post a web site where people can vote on the plates, and promote the process? If it’s only about saving tax dollars, just select the most effective option internally and implement it.

It’s also been suggested that people should understand that the primary function of the license plates is vehicle identification for law enforcement. As an information designer, I agree whole-heartedly. But if that’s the primary argument, why is there a design competition at all? Why not just red letters on white plates, the way they used to be?

The way in which you and the State have handled this matter has been a slap in the face to professional designers across the state. These same designers are creating a huge economic impact on the state, and raising the image of Nebraska both within the state, and across the nation. I hope you will more carefully consider your actions in the future.

Thank you for your consideration,

Drew Davies

Owner / Design Director

Oxide Design Co.

Omaha, NE