Understanding Design
If you're thinking about diving into the world of design, you've probably come across the terms Graphic Design and Design (Visual Communication). They might sound similar, but there's a lot more to each than meets the eye. Let’s break down the differences, explore their similarities, and see why Visual Communication might just be the perfect fit for your creative journey.
Graphic Design and Design (Visual Communication)
Graphic Design is all about creating visuals that catch the eye and communicate a message. Think logos, posters, social media graphics, typography and website layouts. Graphic designers use tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign to craft stunning visuals that represent brands or ideas.
Design (Visual Communication) [or Visual Communication Design] is a broader discipline that encompasses graphic design but extends further into how information is visually structured and presented. It integrates principles from graphic design, information design, user experience (UX) design, and even elements of multimedia and interactive design. Visual communication designers not only create visually appealing materials just like graphic designers, but also ensure that the information is accessible, understandable, and engaging for diverse audiences.
Similarities Between Graphic Design and Visual Communication Design
While Graphic Design and Visual Communication Design each have their unique focuses, they share several foundational elements that make them complementary fields within the broader design landscape.
1. Core Design Principles
Both disciplines rely on fundamental design principles such as balance, contrast, alignment, hierarchy, and repetition. These principles are essential for creating visually harmonious and effective compositions, whether you're designing a logo or an interactive infographic.
2. Creative Process
Creativity is at the heart of both Graphic Design and Visual Communication Design. Both require a creative mindset to develop unique and innovative solutions that capture the audience's attention and communicate the desired message effectively.
3. Use of Visual Elements
Typography, colour theory, imagery, and layout are integral to both fields. These visual elements serve as the building blocks for crafting compelling visual content, ensuring that designs are not only attractive but also convey the intended message clearly.
4. Proficiency with Design Software
There is significant overlap in the tools used by graphic designers and visual communication designers. Both often utilise the Adobe Creative Suite—Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign—for creating and manipulating visual elements. Additionally, both may use tools like Sketch and Figma for digital design projects.
5. Attention to Detail
Precision and meticulousness are essential in both fields. Whether you're fine-tuning the typography of a poster or ensuring the usability of a mobile app, attention to detail ensures that designs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and effective in communication.
6. Focus on Communication
At their core, both Graphic Design and Visual Communication Design aim to communicate messages visually. Whether it's through a striking advertisement or an intuitive user interface, both disciplines seek to convey information in a way that is engaging and easily understood by the audience.
Key Differences Between Graphic Designers and Visual Communication Designers
1. What Work Will I Be Doing?
Graphic Designers focus on individual visual elements and their arrangement for specific projects like logos or ads.
Visual Communication Designers do some of the above but also do a wider range of activities, including data visualisation, interactive media, and strategic communication planning.
2. Goals
Graphic Designers primarily aim to make things look good and grab attention.
Visual Communication Designers strives to communicate messages clearly and effectively, ensuring the audience understands the information.
3. Tools and Techniques
Graphic Designer use tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for creating visual content.
Visual Communication Designer employs a broader set of tools, including those same Adobe tools, prototyping, and interactive design, such as Sketch and Figma.
Sample JMC Student Work
create by Adam Symmons
Storyboard by Heather Zytkiewicz
Brochure by Katy Page
App Design by Bailey Mcnamara
Visual Story by Taylor Doherty
Game Design by Joshua Chung
Why Are Visual Communication Designers In Demand
1. Holistic Communication
Today's organisations face the challenge of conveying complex information in clear and engaging ways. Visual Communication Design goes beyond creating individual visuals—it looks at the bigger picture, ensuring all communication elements work together seamlessly. By studying this field, you'll learn to develop versatile solutions that address various communication challenges, making you a valuable asset in any professional setting.
2. Human/User-Centred Design
Understanding your audience is crucial for effective design. Visual Communication Design emphasises user research and testing, ensuring that your creations are not only visually appealing but also functional and tailored to users' needs. You'll develop strong UX design skills, enabling you to create designs that truly resonate with and serve your audience.
3. Strategic Thinking
Visual Communication Designers don't just make things look good—they align their designs with business goals and communication strategies. This strategic approach adds significant value beyond aesthetics, as your work will contribute directly to organizational success. Studying this field will enhance your ability to think strategically, making your designs purposeful and impactful.
4. Versatile Skills
The skills you acquire in Visual Communication Design are applicable across a wide range of industries, including technology, healthcare, education, and entertainment. This versatility not only broadens your career opportunities but also allows you to work in areas you're passionate about. Whether you want to design for a tech start up or a non-profit organisation, your expertise will be in high demand.
5. Problem-Solving Abilities
Design is all about solving problems creatively. The interdisciplinary nature of Visual Communication Design fosters critical thinking and innovative problem-solving skills. You'll learn to approach challenges from multiple perspectives, ensuring your solutions are both creative and effective. These abilities are essential for tackling complex design projects and driving meaningful change.
6. Impactful Communication
Effective communication can shape perceptions and drive engagement. As a Visual Communication Designer, you'll craft narratives that influence and inform audiences, making a real impact in both commercial and social contexts. Whether you're designing a campaign that raises awareness or creating visuals that enhance user experience, your work will contribute to meaningful outcomes.
7. Future-Proofing Your Career
The landscape of communication technologies is always changing, and the demand for skilled Visual Communication Designers continues to grow. By choosing to study this field, you're investing in a career that's adaptable and resilient. You'll be equipped to embrace future trends and technological advancements, ensuring long-term success and relevance in the job market.
Summary
While Graphic Design and Visual Communication Design share a foundation, the latter offers a broader, more integrated approach to conveying information. For those looking to make a mark in the design world, visual communication design not only hones your creative talents but also equips you with strategic and technical skills that are highly sought after in today's dynamic job market. By diving into visual communication design, you're investing in a future where your designs can influence, inform, and inspire across various platforms and industries. So, if you're passionate about both creativity and effective communication, visual communication design might just be the perfect path for you.
