Given the range of uses for visual design expertise, graphic designers frequently follow a variety of career paths.
A person who pursues a linear path in the field of graphic design may eventually hold more senior positions such as Art Director, Brand Manager, or Creative Director.
Applying their graphic design expertise, those with a passion for web development may choose to pursue this professional path. Someone with experience working as a Graphic Designer may choose to focus more on design and apply for positions as a Web Designer or UX/UI Designer, or if they are skilled in programming, they may seek employment as a Developer (likely focused on the front end).
Additionally, positions closer to product development or software development may value graphic design expertise.
If graphic design is something you're thinking about but aren't sure it's the right field for you, here are other jobs that are comparable to graphic designers:
By making sure things are functional, intuitive, and accessible, UX designers aim to create the best possible user experience. These insights are powered by the thorough testing UX Designers subject every product to as well as the user research they do. UX designers may be the lone UX specialist in a bigger product team or they may work as a full-fledged UX design team. UX design is ultimately about human understanding and putting the user first. Roles in web design and UX design are interrelated.
UI and UX design are frequently mixed together. UX design adheres to many of the same principles and ideals as UI design, or "putting people first," but applies those ideas to the interface of a website or product (a sitemap, layout, or menu, to name a few examples). Additionally, UI designers are frequently charged with ensuring that products are adaptable, inclusive, and accessible. A UI designer typically collaborates closely with UX designers.
The work of a web designer also involves creating attractive websites that work effectively, however web design may place more emphasis on the appealing visual aspects of a website or app than a web designer might place on the website's functionality or usability.
Front-end web developers focus more on the coding while still working on the client-side of a website. A front-end web developer may occasionally just put what web designers have created into practise.
A creative team is led by an art director to produce work for television, billboards, the internet, or periodicals. These positions blur the distinctions between graphic design, marketing, and advertising. Graphic designers, artists, photographers, copywriters, videographers, and production personnel typically make up a creative team. Art directors oversee projects, develop aesthetic concepts, and ensure that work is completed to a client's satisfaction while staying on schedule and within budget.
Along with photographers, content writers, videographers, and other creatives, graphic designers collaborate on design projects in design teams.
However, a graphic designer may also interact with numerous other organisational levels. A Graphic Designer may work with specialists in web design, user experience (UX) design, public relations, sales, marketing, and information technology, depending on the organisation and function.
