While the world of graphic design is fairly interesting, it can seem overwhelming to the average consumer. Even the most inexperienced consumer can enjoy the ideas and methods involved with graphic design. Just be careful, these facts might get you hooked for life!

History of Graphic Design

The word “graphic” refers to providing a clear picture of a certain subject. William Addison Dwiggins first used the term “graphic design” in 1922, but the first computer-based programs with graphic design tools didn’t arrive until the 1980s. Currently, there are about 4000 graphic design firms in the United Kingdom alone. Around half of all businesses in the UK will utilise the services of a graphic design agency at some point.

Inspiring Growth

The field of graphic design is growing at an incredible pace. Although the industry did not truly exist before the advancement of computer technology, almost 286,000 people worked under the title of Graphic Designer in 2008. The way that businesses look at creative design is starting to change. It is now an accepted fact that effective graphic design drives market share.

Freelance Work

With the evolution of technology and business, many experts believe that freelance and contract-style work represents the future. Lots of graphic designers already work as freelancers. This relaxed setting is made more efficient by technological advancements such as video conferencing and mobile communication. This type of work can also promote creativity as contractors do not feel the need to conform to organisational processes and ideas.

Span of Work

Graphic designers enjoy a wide array of different work mediums. Businesses and individuals looking to create logos and websites utilise graphic design to optimise their performance. Brochures and catalogues need a lot of graphic design work to stand out among the competition. Marketing campaigns and signage also require graphic designing to reach their audience.

Interests of the Young

As the next generation starts their search for employment, graphic design is becoming one of the most desirable fields for the creative school-leaver. It is in the list of the top 25 jobs that young people want and offers an array of opportunities. Young people have grown up in a technologically-driven world and want to make their impact on it through graphic design.

Education

Unlike many other careers, graphic design jobs do not typically require a four-year degree. Employers are more interested in a designer’s scope of work and experience in the field than a formal qualification. For self-motivated people that enjoy learning new concepts and technologies, graphic design can be a perfect match. Although a lot of full-time graphic designers studied at a four-year university, many of them didn’t focus on graphic design until after school.

Consumers face a barrage of daily advertisements and marketing campaigns. The importance of standing out is growing more intense every day. The field of graphic design can help businesses differentiate themselves from the competition and gain new customers. It can be an addictive line of work, as most graphic designers refuse to sit idle. When out of work, most will design things for their own satisfaction. The constant evolution of design keeps them hooked on changing technologies and ideas.