Graphic Design for the Publishing Industry

A publishing job for today's market can be a multi-faceted project encompassing corporate branding and the product, service or information to be distributed. A graphics project may range from a simple one-time brochure or business card, to a complete corporate branding.

A publishing project can be one simple book cover, or it can take on a life of its own and become a print dynasty. An excellent example of a publishing juggernaut is the For Dummies series. It began in November 1991 with DOS For Dummies and has expanded to 125 million books in print plus software, entertainment, videos, and the Internet. Their logo, style, and colors are instantly recognizable to millions - without such a strong graphics statement, it is hard to say whether the sales would measure up in the same way.

As such, a graphics designer cannot approach any graphics task lightly, he must plan ahead. The company may someday require versions of their logo on letterhead, brochures, business cards, the Web, product packaging, booklets, promotional items, banners, and even billboards. The logo design must translate well to any size or application.

Content is critical to the basic decisions: color, style, and impact. The outside must relate to the inside in terms of:

Age of the potential reader - age often determines color choice and choice of graphical style. Younger readers want bright, trendy colors, and high contrast, older readers expect a more sedate approach.

Type of publication - people looking for a book about healthy cooking might ignore a book featuring a poodle on the cover.

Graphic design is a method of visual communication, delivering a message about the product and the company to the consumer. In addition to meeting the needs if the client, designers must also address the needs of the end user. Designers can gather relevant information and inspiration from clients, team members where applicable, and by performing their own research.

Before you begin designing any print project, you should first check with the printer. They will have specific instructions for size and format. Following these guidelines is critical to the success of the project.

According to the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey program, the average salary for an entry-level designer was $35,000 in 2007. Senior designers, freelance designers, and designers with partnerships earned between $60,000 and $113,000. While demand continues to grow and expand at a steady pace, there is a trend for companies to outsource many basic graphics needs to overseas firms, so competition for jobs remains fierce.

An education in graphic design may fall short of what a company expects from a graphic designer today. Communication and problem-solving skills are crucial. Successful graphic designers must be able to communicate their ideas visually, verbally, and in writing. Understanding advertising dynamics is helpful, and staying on top of advertising trends is critical. The best way to showcase such skills is by assembling a portfolio, a collection of your best and most interesting work.