A desktop publisher is a data publication processor for professionals. She creates business cards, advertisement proofs, and other promotional materials that were previously only available from typesetters using offset printing presses and manually produced graphics. She usually works alone, though on more difficult projects she may enlist the help of other industry professionals. A person who works in this field may be employed by a publishing company or work as a freelancer.
Letters of introduction, brochures, business and rate cards, and other printed materials are commonly required by businesses for promotion. For many years, these promotional items necessitated the use of a publisher or printer to design logos and layouts, typeset the text, and then print the final products on offset printers. The procedure was frequently time-consuming, tedious, and expensive.
The majority of these tasks are now completed by a desktop publisher. She usually has a library of desktop publishing software that allows her to create all of the promotional materials that businesses typically require. Her computer is connected to a laser or laser jet printer, which produces high-quality prints of the materials she creates on the computer.
A desktop publisher’s software typically includes a large number of fonts, layout designs, and graphics that can be easily incorporated into any document. She uses computer-assisted drawing programs to create unique drawings and logos for each customer. A desktop publisher’s printers are usually capable of printing on a variety of different weights and types of paper, as well as printing documents in color or black-and-white.
A good eye for artistic conceptualization and great attention to detail are usually required for success in this job. Because a desktop publisher is frequently called upon to design and implement a variety of promotional materials for a company, her understanding of the products she offers is critical. She’s also the one who usually creates the final copy for her clients, so hers are usually the last set of eyes to spot any typographical or layout errors.
As an independent desktop publisher, building a client base frequently necessitates community interaction. Beginning desktop publishers can make money by providing services to restaurants, such as menu or take-out menu creation. Getting in touch with schools or civic groups to assess their newsletter, flyer, and mailing needs is also a good way for a desktop publisher to establish new business relationships.
This position usually does not necessitate any formal education. To work as a desktop publisher, you’ll need good word processing skills as well as knowledge of graphics and publishing software. People seeking success in this field are advised to stay up to date on the latest developments in the desktop publishing industry.