Working In The Industry

Desktop Publishing (DTP) and Graphic Design Work

These employees must be able to work fast and accurately with numerical data, text, photographs, images, charts, and other graphic elements in order to create proofs ready for publication. Their work requires strong computer skills to format and pull together the different parts of a print order.

Creativity is an essential skill, as these employees often have to write new material or edit original text. They may also need to produce images to link in with the text and use scanners to turn photographs and drawings into compressed digital images. Any new images they create will need to fit neatly with text, so page layouts also need customer approval. Other work can include colour separation or the transfer of electronic information on to traditional forms or film. An understanding of the full print process is essential so they can design artwork that works well with the chosen printing process. For instance, designs for packaging use specialised printing processes, and often the shape of the finished product is curved or non-uniform and this requires particular skills.

Desktop publishers and graphic designers use computer keyboards to input and choose formatting properties like text size and style. The separate parts of a print job are then saved to computer memory. Each page of a book, magazine or paper can be displayed digitally on screen just as it will look when printed. Once proof reading is complete these pages are then transferred onto printing plates, or transferred directly to the printing machine ready for production.

Electronic data can also be used online, for example on a company website, so graphic designers also need to be aware of electronic publishing procedures, as they may be asked to make the material they are working on "Internet ready". Many businesses now employ staff to produce marketing and other promotional materials "in-house". Opportunities in this type of work are therefore on the increase. To start out as a graphic designer you will need good qualifications. Many employers look for a relevant qualifications such as a foundation degree in design and some work experience. Senior freelance graphic designers charge up to £30.00 per hour earning up to around £50,000 a year. If this type of work appeals to you your search for vacancies should include:

Skills and abilities that help you succeed in desktop publishing and graphic design:

  • Good communication skills
  • Able to work within a budget
  • Time management skills
  • Computer software skills
  • Innovative nature
  • Team player
  • Creativity
  • Ability to accept criticism