Graphic designers communicate ideas to others through clear and concise visuals using standard design principles. They spend their days translating their client’s vision into art and helping them meet their goals. The industry has gone from creating the type for books and newspapers to posters for businesses and political organizations.
The 90’s saw the arrival of Photoshop that allowed designers to overlap text, fade elements, and employ digital overlays. Technology and the digital revolution has changed graphic design more that anything else in this world. When we consider the future of graphic design, we have to consider what graphic designers should focus on what designers will have to do for clients and their brands in the years to come.
Keeping up to with trends and changes in the industry is vital to remaining relevant. Designers who are willing and able to adapt to new methods and innovate new concepts will thrive in the industry of tomorrow. Designers who understand that design is not a product but a service will succeed. The craft is no longer about the tools but about how they are used.
Why Graphic Design is So Vital
Graphic design is critical to businesses of every industry and size. The old standards including business cards, flyers, and postcards are still used by businesses to represent themselves and build their brands. Even more important, digital design is integral for building their online presence and engaging with their clients and prospects. Through images, infographics, slideshows and videos businesses reach their clients and help them understand their services and what they can offer.
Graphic Design, Like Everything Else Will Evolve
Graphic design is not a matter of print designs anymore, media design is graphic design’s solid future. Designs are simpler, but more immersive. The future of visual content lies in animation and virtual reality.
With augmented reality, people will be able to enter different experiences like never before. Individuals will use this for entertainment, educators will use this in the classroom and professionals will use this in their workday. Graphic Designers will create the worlds that they all will experience.
Authentic user experiences that will be desired will require that graphic designers work with people to plan, facilitate, and research in addition to designing. Those able to collaborate with other disciplines will succeed. With AI, what lies between businesses and consumers is the graphic designer. This will be about optimization and speed.
With AI designs can be created quickly and more efficiently. The speed at which it can analyze data and suggest adjustments to designs will be incredible. With AI, designers can complete 3D VR worlds in a shorter time period. There are many changes on the horizon. With AI, there will be new opportunities for graphic designers.
3D Printing will also change the focus of graphic designers. As technology becomes more available to individuals quality designs will be needed and consumers will expect faster results. While now 3D printing is not used in most businesses, it will go mainstream.
The future will also deliver complex design problems requiring innovative solutions that will require technology. While traditional graphic design roles will decrease, the web design field will grow by 27%. Designers must also think of adaptive technological systems for their clients that are able to learn and evolve.
Designers are rapidly taking on the task of assessing the features they deploy will increase their client’s traffic and convert visitors into loyal customers. Designers are responsible for using data-driven technology to ensure an enjoyable customer experience. Their approach must be centered on the people they will be speaking to. They must now also figure out how to successfully assess user needs and incorporate them into the service. It is vital to hone in on areas where graphic design can work to deliver solutions in all industries.
The Future of Graphic Design
More Remote Work
Starting off in the corporate world will give designers a footing in the industry and experience, of course. But it also keeps you working in the box. Working remotely allows designers to work anywhere – from home or the local coffee shop.
Freelancing is King
Freelancing is the only way for many millennials. While there is no guarantee of steady income and designers do not have company paid insurance and retirement benefits, millennials are looking to remain autonomous.
Graphic Design is constantly evolving. New trends each year mean that you have to stay on top of what others are doing. Keep an eye on those designers whose work you admire.
