There seems to be a preconceived misconception that graphic design is for music bands hulled up in a garage, coffee shops looking to make a few extra bucks, or simply reserved for the “hipster” crowd. If I were to walk into a school of art and design and ask “Would you ever design for a government agency?” the response would be “No, the ‘man’ is too mainstream.”
As not only an art and design student, but as a sport club treasurer and adventure leader, I am here to say, there is more to graphic design than meets the eye. There are different components of design which companies and businesses utilize everyday, such as the design of their logo, letterheads, business documents, emails, newsletters, merchandising and branding etc. Where does this design come from? It certainly isn’t from Microsoft Word clip art (or at least we hope not). Keeping good design not only separates one company from the other, but it also helps define a company as a whole and makes their presence timeless. Take for example IBM. Their logo has defined the company for years, with only 3 simple letters and a classic horizontal design.
So why can’t design in government be the same way? Become a timeless classic with an edgy design?
Naturally there are different styles of design which can be incorporated smoothly into government such as a focus on minimalism, symmetrical design, typography and many more. Graphic design is all about communication, and fast communication at that. Government is under the pressure of reaching the masses in constructive ways, something graphic designers are able to aid in the process. How has graphic design helped your agency or business?
Hi Carolyn, I totally agree with your post. The problem is with other challenges and demands on an agency (and I’m speaking about mine in particular), it’s hard to get leadership to invest in graphic design services. Even when they have the possibility of improving our image, making our information more available to the public and our customers, and helping to create a more unified message. Those of us that are interested try to do what we can in house, but are always open to and looking for advice, training, and great examples to learn from.