Blending creative expression with goal-driven communication, graphic design represents a powerful application of fine arts. The goal: to shape the viewer’s perception through the strategic use of layout, typography and imagery.
This nuanced field is better understood when dividing its two core terms: graphic and design. Graphic refers to the visual elements that make viewers take notice. From color to texture, these essentials allow graphic designers to convey complex ideas. Design, meanwhile, reveals how the final product will look and function. This helps ensure there is substance behind the graphic designer’s work.
Graphic designers share a commitment to fulfilling the principles of design while also emphasizing creative expression through graphic elements. However, how exactly they accomplish this depends greatly on the needs of the client and the preferences of the target market.
To clarify this far-reaching role and all it encompasses, we provide an in-depth answer to the key question: What does a graphic designer do?
Graphic Design Process
Inspiration can strike at any moment, but graphic designers bring structure to their work by following a step-by-step process:
Briefing – Graphic design projects begin with creative briefs, which highlight everything from deadlines to measurable objectives. These details help graphic designers align their process with the needs and goals of the client. Designers must take the time to examine each brief and determine how these instructions and objectives will play into the project and the general design process.
Research – Extensive research is essential, as designers must understand the needs and preferences of the audience or end users. Market research is a must, but this process may also encompass competitor analysis, site research or user testing.
Brainstorming concepts – Following an extensive research process, designers should be ready to move forward with brainstorming concepts. Inspiration can take numerous forms, with many designers relying on mood boards to experiment with groundbreaking ideas.
Sketch and wireframe – Brainstorming is a deeply creative process, but the concepts that emerge must eventually be grounded in reality—hence the need for practical sketches and wireframes. The sketch represents a rough image that indicates how the final product might look. Meanwhile, the wireframe acts as a schematic and can play heavily into UX and UI design.
Digital drafting – Many designers rely on software to create two and three-dimensional drafts. This tends to be a more efficient process, and the ensuing mockups can easily be updated or modified as necessary.
Feedback and revisions – Following the hard work of brainstorming and drafting, it’s time to reveal the design. This may result in extensive feedback, along with the need for revisions. Clear and open communication can make this process easier. Also crucial? Tracking changes and being willing to push back on occasion.
Production and QA – Every aspect of every design must be cross-checked to ensure accuracy and quality. Once this quality assurance process has been completed, the project can finally move into the production phase.
Delivery and approval – When designers and clients are on the same page, swift approval is likely. In some cases, approval relies on both the thoughts and opinions of the client or stakeholders along with user testing. Feedback obtained at this point (or through metrics gathered later on) can be incorporated as graphic designers return to step one and begin analyzing new creative briefs.
For another viewpoint of each step in the graphic design process and the importance of following a detailed workflow, Mahandeo provides an insightful overview and further elaboration on this subject.