Graphic design: As much as it has become a massive part of the visual world we live in today, it’s surprising that it (and graphic designers, in extension) has often been misunderstood. In particular, business graphic design is regarded by some as unnecessary. As a result, many businesses choose to forgo this solution, and many of them end up far behind their competitors.
If you want to put your business out there, here are five common graphic design misconceptions that you must be aware of:
1. GRAPHIC DESIGN IS NO MORE THAN PRETTY PICTURES
True, graphic design often showcases gorgeous images, but they’re not the only thing design is for. It always intends to solve a problem or enhance the user experience. In fact, the visuals created are meant to communicate with the client’s target audience and improve brand image.
A graphic designer’s output results from the collaboration of the artist and the client, with the latter’s needs in mind. There are also branding guidelines that experts need to follow. So, no, graphic design involves much more than merely pretty pictures!
2. GRAPHIC DESIGN IS NOT HARD AT ALL
Some might look at a design output and think it wouldn’t take them long to replicate such results. What they might not know is that the design process is complicated and often time-consuming because it’s not solely about layouts or drawing, although those are a big part of the job.
As mentioned, much of graphic design is problem-solving. Many graphic designers’ usual process starts with understanding the client and their brand, knowing their target market, doing research, conceptualising, prototyping, and doing user interface animation design. The job also involves meeting the expectations and getting the approval of people who are often unsure of what they want.
3. GRAPHIC DESIGN DOESN’T MATTER MUCH
Dismissing the importance of design can be a colossal mistake for businesses. In business, graphic design plays a significant role, from creating traditional marketing materials like leaflets to digital marketing and mobile apps. In a way, it helps businesses establish a foundation for their branding and marketing strategies because a company will find it hard to grow to its full potential without effective designs.
Take websites, for example. No matter how ‘meaty’ your content may be, if the design is not aesthetically pleasing, or if it’s cluttered and confusing as opposed to soothing and comprehensive, the chance of web users staying on your website is slim.
4. GRAPHIC DESIGN SHOULD ALWAYS BE TRENDY
Trends can indeed inspire graphic designers in their work, but they do not rely on them entirely. If anything, the goal of most designers is to create something that can be considered timeless. It’s always better to have a design that can age gracefully than one that will look passé or weird in a few years.
Also, it should be understood that a business’s graphic design is supposed to be a representation of its brand. For this reason, instead of following a trend, the design must reflect your brand’s ethos and stand out from the competition because of your individuality interpreted in the design.
5. GRAPHIC DESIGN IS CHEAP
You can find freelance graphic designers online that could agree to provide you with creative graphic design services for your website or social media at affordable prices. However, you can’t expect to get premium quality at ridiculously low prices. Good graphic designers take pride in their work and know their worth.
It’s recommended that you work with a design agency, as opposed to individual freelancers. An agency has a team of creative individuals who work collaboratively and whose work goes through strict testing and approval processes before presenting to the client. Similarly, not all such agencies charge premium prices.
For instance, 55 Knots has unlimited graphic design packages that come at different price points, so you can find one that suits your needs and your budget!
CONCLUSION
There is much to know about graphic design that many people often overlook. It might take a while for them to fully understand and appreciate the role that graphic design plays in traditional and digital marketing for businesses. Hopefully, as you read the common misconceptions above, you’ll better see the value that this creative work brings to the table.
55 Knots offers the best graphic design services in Australia that you can subscribe to. We have tailored design plans that you’ll find suitable for your needs! Check out our sample work or sign up for a free 14-day trial today!
