Elements of the Field: Part 1

A.What you need to know and be able to do

i. Familiarity with the tools (Photoshop, Illustrator, etc). Understanding of
dimensions, resolution, bleeds, etc.
ii. Knowing which tools/programs to use for specic projects or tasks. Correct use of
the color workspace (RGB & CMYK). Identifying the target audience and ensuring
that the design fullls that audiences! needs.
iii. Knowing the appropriate resolution and color workspace for optimum production.
Also knowing the complexity of the task in order to efciently manage time. Five
D!s of Design.
iv.Look back at different eras in design. Constantly look at examples of work that
dene each of those eras. Understand why things were designed that way in that
time period.
v. Research and learn everything you need to know about the product you are
working with. Understand its purpose.
B.Mental habits you need to develop
i. What do other designers do differently from what I do to stand out? How do they
manage their time? How do they know what to prioritize when working on multiple
projects. What are their design styles and how are they similar/different from
yours?
ii. Research and read popular magazines or blogs that feature top designers in the
eld. Understand why they are top designers in the eld.
iii. Need to join design forums (participate in discussions & ask questions). Attend
meetings and interact with other professionals in other industries. Learn about
what new trends are happening.