This has been a topic that's been a hot debate for years: Why are graphic designers often undervalued? But why is this? Graphic design is an art form that requires a unique set of skills and talents. Let's debunk the myth that it is just about art or creativity. It's so much more! It's a science, a craft, an art form, and a technical discipline all rolled into one. Graphic designers are experts in visual communication, combining their creative talents with technical skills to convey complex messages visually. True Graphic designers understand the psychology of visual communication, color theory, typography, layout, and so much more. Designers have to balance aesthetics with functionality, ensuring that the final product not only looks great but also serves its purpose effectively.
1. Misconceptions
There are these misconceptions that graphic design is only about pretty pictures, copy and paste from google images, Graphic design is not hard at all, Graphic design doesn’t matter much, Graphic design is cheap, Graphic design is easy, Editing and fixing designs is a piece of cake. In a perfect easy world, but for graphic designers we live in a technological, logic filled, and conscientious world. We don’t want to break any copyright laws or put our name on work that looks awful. The value of graphic designers goes beyond just being 'creative'. They bring a wealth of knowledge from their training and experience to every project they work on. They strive for consistency across all touchpoints while also keeping an eye on future trends and technologies to ensure that their designs remain relevant and successful over time.
2. People Don't Grasp or Understand Exactly
What Graphic Designers Do?
Designers are problem solvers who think strategically, analyze data, and consider their audience when they create. But the true magic happens behind the scenes - they research, plan, test and tinker to come up with innovative solutions to your design needs. You can read my article about the STEPS A GRAPHIC DESIGNER TAKES TO CREATE to know exactly what Graphic Designers do to create and the world that goes into design. It's important to recognize that good graphic design isn't just about looking good - it's about being effective in achieving its purpose. A designer may spend hours perfecting a logo or branding concept because it truly matters to them and their client that it works!
3. People Don't Understand or Care About The Challenges
Graphic Designers Face?
What makes all this work even more challenging is the fact that the design process is often a collaborative one. It involves working with clients, understanding their needs and vision, and then translating that into tangible designs. This requires excellent communication skills, patience, and sometimes even compromise to reach a solution that works for all parties involved. The cost of hiring a professional designer can seem steep, especially if you're not aware of the amount of time and skill that goes into a project. But remember, you often get what you pay for in this industry!
4. People Don't Appreciate The Value Of Quality Design?
Some clients or employers may not appreciate the value of quality design. They might be on a tight budget or have a specific idea in mind that they want executed without any changes. This can lead to unrealistic expectations and misunderstandings between designer and client. Whether it's a logo for a new business or a campaign poster for an event, their work has a significant impact on how your brand is perceived by others.
Will Graphic Designers Ever be Valued?
Despite Graphic Designers tremendous contributions to businesses and brands worldwide, graphic designers will often go undervalued and underpaid or taken advantage of. Now after reading this blog post, you might be surprised to hear that these talented individuals often find themselves facing an undervalued attitude from clients or employers. So next time you find yourself underpaying or undervaluing a graphic designer, remember all the hard work that goes into every visual you see and I will say this again, you get what you pay for in this industry.
Written by
Devon Tingle
Owner of Devsigns llc, Creative Entrepreneur, Graphic Designer
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