This would include brochures, postcards, self mailers and newsletters. If you have a background in computer raphics, you are already aware of what you can offer as a desktop publisher. 

Using computer software, desktop publishers format and combine text, numerical data, photographs, charts, and other visual graphic elements to produce publication-ready material.

Depending on the nature of a particular project, desktop publishers may also:

• Write and edit text

• Create graphics to accompany text

• Convert photographs and drawings into digital images and then manipulate those images

• Design page layouts

• Create proposals

• Develop presentations and advertising campaigns

• Typeset and do color separation

• Translate electronic information onto film or other traditional forms.

Other materials produced by desktop publishers include books, calendars, magazines, packaging, slides, and even tickets.

Valuable Skills/Requirements

You can't really be a desktop publisher without a computer. In the old days, the layout was done with colored pencils, markers and a knife, but those days are long gone. I think the Mac is a better computer for doing layout work although PC’s (Windows based systems) have come a long way with design capabilities.

You should also learn how to use the specific design and layout software created specifically for desktop publishers. Quark Xpress and Adobe InDesign are the two leading programs, but there are other more affordable ones you can use temporarily. In fact, if you're just starting out you can also use Microsoft Word.

A background in advertising or design is helpful, but certainly not necessary. If you have a knack for creativity and have an artistic background, you can have success with your inner creativity.

In any business, creativity will take you a long way and if you can create something, you can make money.

Networking will help your business grow. If you are shy and don’t want to go out and find business, it will make it a lot tougher. But the other option is to pay independent sales people commissions on the work they bring in for you. Another option is to send letters to local printers asking for referrals or asking them to pass along your name if they clients looking for a graphic designer.

Although formal training is not always required, certification in certain programs can be an asset, but of course, not required. Your portfolio and experience, in addition to business-sense, is what will help you excel.

You can also take classes or complete certificate programs at vocational schools, universities and colleges, or even via the Internet. Programs range in length, but the average non-degree certification training program takes approximately 1 year. However, I am a big believer in "on the job" training to develop the necessary skills.

Get a computer, buy the programs – and get to work on your business. Even if you take on work that’s more word processing, getting started is a better move than not starting at all.

Some books and time spent experiencing the technique is recommended to get rolling with the basics.

There is a lot of competition in this field, but it will continue to grow. If you do not like selling and networking, your business will not grow as quickly as you would like it to. As with most businesses, you need to be able to convince people why they would want your services.

How much you can make?

Earnings for desktop publishers vary according to level of experience, training, location, and size of your business. You can easily make anywhere from $25,000 to $100,000 full time.

How much to startup?

You can buy a used computer for under $500 to $800 dollars. You can buy a 2-3 year old computer that will do the job while you are trying to get started. Software ranges from $200 to $500 per program.

Resources

Graphic Communications Council

1899 Preston White Dr.

Reston, VA 20191

www.npes.org

Graphic Arts Technical Foundation

200 Deer Run Rd.

Sewickley, PA 15143

www.gatf.org

For information on benefits and compensation in desktop publishing, write to:

Printing Industries of America, Inc.

100 Daingerfield Rd., Alexandria, VA 22314. Internet: http://www.gain.org