As with all things in our world, graphic design grows and evolves. The demand for new and better things ensures that the design industry never stays stale. Companies and brands are always looking to improve their branding and find the next big design hit. To meet their demands, you must also be able to evolve. There are many ways for you to do so, such as picking up new skills and techniques.

However, we suggest that you learn about the different types of graphic design. It may sound a bit basic, but knowing the ins and outs of every graphic design type will be worth it in the long run. This is especially important if you are working freelance. Each client will have a different vision of what they want you to create. Your versatility will give you the edge over others who haven’t learned to use the other types.

Whether you are just a beginner or a grizzled old vet in the business, understanding the different types of design will give you all the skills and knowledge you need in order to succeed in your chosen field.

Visual Identity

This type lays the foundation for the entire brand. Visual identity acts as the face of your brand, being the one that people will see on a daily basis. The best example of this design type being used is the logo. However, it isn’t limited to just that. Its job is to help create the visual presence of the company. Things like the company’s colours, typography, shapes, and other visual elements are just some of the things you’ll need to do.

As this is the most common type used, designers will need to have a general grasp of all of the design types. This is because the designer will need to create something that is suitable for every form of visual media. This includes things like business cards and corporate items like stationery and pens.

Here are some examples of what you’ll be working on when you are using this type:

• Branding guidelines
• Branding strategies
• Brand and company colours
• Logo design
• Company paraphernalia

Marketing and Advertising

This is the type that most people think about when they think about what graphic design does. They think about designs that are made for the purpose of marketing and advertising. A strong marketing effort is the lifeblood of every company, creating adverts that people want to engage with and buy into.

The designers will be working closely with the company’s marketing team, managers, and executives to create the best asset for a marketing campaign. More often than not, you will be assigned to work on a concept together with a team as part of the in-house creative team. Depending on what the campaign will be, companies may look for designers who specialise in a specific kind of media.

Here are some examples of what you’ll be working on:

• Laptop Stickers
• Postcards
• Fliers
• Billboards
• Menus
• Powerpoint presentations
• Signs
• Company displays

Art and Illustration

Although they are seen as the same thing, illustration and graphic art are rather different from graphic design. Designers typically create pieces that will communicate to the viewers and solve problems. Meanwhile, both graphic artists and illustrators look to create something original. Illustration and graphic art have many different forms, often being vastly different from your typical designs.

While they are vastly different from each other, they can all be equally used for the same purposes. Some companies may choose to use illustrations as part of their brand or marketing campaign. When you look at something like the Magic: The Gathering brand, you can see how they make use of illustrations and graphic art in their merchandise and branding.

Here are some examples of what you’ll be working on:

• Infographics
• Websites
• Stock images
• Concept art

Publication

A long time ago, graphic designers were mainly working in the publication industry, creating different pieces that communicated to the target audience. When people think about published materials, the images of books, magazines, newspapers, and catalogues come to mind. With the dawn of the digital age, digital publishing has become the preferred method for many companies looking to release news and other important announcements. This type is rather unique as there are various design ideas that one can use in order to help the product succeed.

Designers who specialise in this type often work together with the publisher’s editorial team to create layouts, typography, and art. The art the publisher will vary depending on what they need. The editor can ask the designer to illustrate or find suitable photos to use together with your designs. Typically, designers will be part of an in-house team, or if someone self-published, they’ll hire freelancers instead.

Here are some examples of what you’ll be working on:

• Newsletters
• Catalogues
• Annual reports
• Directories

Final Thoughts

Those are just some of the types that you should know about. As you can see, each one is different from the other. Mastering each one can help you find work in various industries. With these skills at your disposal, you won’t have to worry about working with a client whose request you can’t seem to satisfy. Make things easier on yourself by checking out certain do’s and don’ts.