Graphic Designers

Graphic designers use illustrative, sound, visual and multimedia techniques to convey a message for information, entertainment, advertising, promotion or publicity purposes, and create special visual effects and animations for computer games, film, interactive and other media.

Tasks

• Liaises with client to clarify aims of project brief, discusses media, software and technology to be used, establishes timetable for project and defines budgetary constraints
• Undertakes research into project, considers previous related projects and compares costs of using different processes
• Prepares sketches, scale drawings, models, colour schemes and other mock-ups to show clients and discusses any required alterations
• Prepares specification and instructions for realisation of the project
• Liaises with other parts of the production team to ensure graphic design fits with other elements, processes and timescales
• Produces or oversees creation of the final product.

Entry Requirements

Entrants have usually completed a foundation course, a BTEC/SQA award, a degree and/or postgraduate qualification. NVQs/SVQs in Design (in various disciplines) are available at Levels 2 and 3. Portfolio work is also important for entry.