The best and scariest part of being a graphic designer is the speed at which the technology of design is changing. It’s never boring.
When I started my career, desktop publishing was still new enough that many of the non-computer-based designers were still around. Within a few years, they had either retired or went on to other jobs. It was rare to see someone actually transition from designing by hand to computer design.
Even though I’ve been designing professionally for 15 years, I feel as though I’ve had many careers in that time. I’ve designed 3D weapons for video games, interactive multimedia for educational workshops, branding and print design for corporations, and lots of websites. Constant learning is no longer a choice, but is a necessity for all of us.
When I look back I can clearly see transition periods where one design career would end and another design career begins. The last major transition was the period between September 11, 2001 and January, 2002. When 911 happened, the majority of my business was interactive media for workshops, CD-ROMs, and interactive signage. Between 911 and the New Year, I received little work. It all just dried up. I did lots of proposals, but it turned out that my clients were all waiting for the New Year. Once January came I was busier than ever before, but my business had changed. I was no longer doing interactive media as my primary product. For the next eight years it was an even split between print and web design.
Well things are changing again…2009 was a transition year as well, both professionally and personally. And I don’t think that’s just for me. Many people are taking a fresh look at their lives and reevaluating what they want to invest themselves into.
I’ve become clear that I want to work on similar and more focused projects. Lots of them. I intend to simplify my processes and offer better design for less money. I want to make my business more personal and have more fun with my clients, because I really have great clients.
I’m working on some high-value initiatives that I will unveil in the next few weeks. I’ll have more details soon.
-PB
MadMimi - Easy email marketing
Recent Comments