Were I to begin my career over again, which would mean rolling back the hands of time to such a point they might actually snap off, I think–no, I know–I would have become a graphic designer. Now keep in mind that when I headed off to college with communications in my sights, I didn’t really know a lot about graphic design. But when I had the opportunity to begin working with great designers, I instantly became fascinated by their work.
As a freelance writer, I generally spend my days crafting content.
Some copywriting is obviously pretty straightforward; after all, a website sometimes has to be more informative as opposed to more entertaining. Other days, I do get to play, creating “word pictures” as I strive to describe people and events in a way that bring them to life on a page (or screen, depending on the medium.)
Good graphic design has the power to do the same, but with color and images and lines and circles. If I see a great design on a web page or a beautiful logo, it speaks to me. I can see in an instant what a business is all about in a font or a shape. It can convey an emotion from elegantly peaceful to wildly energetic. As noted by Randall Smith in this Forbes article,
“If good design is doing its job, it is managing your perception of an experience in many ways–both obvious and not so obvious. How you feel, and therefore if whether you’re going to engage and buy, is directly influenced by the design of a website, a package or a business card.”
Most importantly, however, good writing and content development can and should go hand-in-hand with great graphic design. Quality design can bring your prospective customers to a website or inspire them to pick up a package; quality content can help them finalize their buying decision.
Do you have thoughts about how great graphic design and great content can work together? I’d love to hear them.