Graphic Design Technology involves working with external and internal clients to create solutions to their needs; it may also include the printing or online publication production. People working in this industry often work closely with their clients and must be strong communicators so that they can achieve the client’s objectives successfully. They require strong interactive, research, design and technical skills. In order to have these they need to understand the target audience, markets, trends and cultural differences and what the client wants. They must be able to work in either formal or informal teams, or stand-alone.
After completing the research and planning stage, a project is interpreted to form a design in appropriate industry specific software. The design must be set up with the correct technical specifications for output or online publication. It is essential that practitioners understand all phases of the procedure including the constraints of the specified printing process. These skills also apply to re-designing or updating a design.
There are various employment opportunities within the industry. This can include becoming a freelancer, business owner, or being employed by an advertising firm, a design firm, a printing company or a company with a design department. Practitioners may have a broad role, or specialise as a graphic designer, graphic artist, prepress operator, typographer, typesetter, type designer, image manipulation specialist, illustrator, art director, production manager, digital printer, information designer, publisher or packaging specialist.
Standards Specification
The Standards Specification specifies the knowledge, understanding and specific skills that underpin international best practice in technical and vocational performance. It should reflect a shared global understanding of what the associated work role(s) or occupation(s) represent for industry and business.