So what do you do for a living? That’s the question asked by most all of us when meeting someone for the first time. As a Graphic Designer, when I get asked that question, the conversation usually goes something like this:

Person: ”So what do you do?”

Josh: ”I’m a Graphic Designer.”

Person: ”Oh, so you work with computers.”

Josh: ”Well, that’s just one of the tools I use.”

Person: “So what kind of stuff do you do? Do you make web sites?”

Josh: “Well, I design logos, business cards, brochures, ads, and yes, web sites.”

Why is there so much confusion about what a Graphic Designer does? Why do so many people understand so little about Graphic Design?

Let me put myself in the non-designers shoes for moment. What does the title of Graphic Designer really entail? Someone who designs graphics? That doesn’t really say much. Perhaps a more descriptive title, such as Visual Communications Professional, would encompass more of what we do instead of what we produce. If you have no clue what a Graphic Designer is, or why you should spend your hard earned money on one, then maybe I can help.

To begin with, lets dispel some myths.

• A designers job is not just to make things look pretty. The true task of a designer is to communicate a message visually. It’s about creative problem solving and finding the most interesting way to convey a message.
• Designers do not have three eyes, live in a cave, and only come out on Tuesdays…for the most part.
• We don’t do all our work on the computer. Actually, we try to stay away from the computer until we have the concept for the design worked out on paper, and have fully researched the company and/or the product.

Design isn’t just about making something aesthetically pleasing–it also involves psychology and emotion. The designer has to consider how people will react to the design–what they will think, and how they will feel. Everything from the typeface chosen to the style of illustration used, and the color selection work together to convey a message.

Recently, Graphic Design has begun to include a wide range of electronic media. Now the designer’s job includes designing for the web, cell phone & other handhelds, film, and social networking sites to name a few. The design principles are the same, but the technology is changing so fast it will make your head spin.

Can’t I just do it myself?

A lot of companies think they can save money and create their own design solutions. This is due to the false mind set that when the company hires a designer, they are merely paying for a product, such as, business cards, brochures, ads…etc. This is simply not true. A designer plans a design out carefully, and seeks to bring unity to everything he creates for the company.

When a designer is hired to solve a design problem, he is hired for his expertise, and not simply what he produces. Saving money is always a smart thing to do, but when a company attempts to take on the job of the designer, any temporary savings will be minimal compared to what the company will lose due to poorly conceived and executed designs.

I hope this article gives a little more insight into the task of a Graphic Designer, and why it is essential to hire a professional for your design problems.