Graphic Design: When To Hire A Pro & When To DIY

When most business owners are in the planning stages of their new venture, they usually have a general idea of what they want in the way of marketing materials, marketing strategy, and graphic design. Similarly, they have a relatively general idea of what professional graphic designers do. Too many people think graphic designers create logos and business cards, choose images for websites, or create brochures, magazine ads, and promo pieces. Although technically, graphic designers proudly do all of these tasks, they do so much more. Once you have a full picture of what goes into professional graphic design, you’re better equipped to choose when to hire a pro and when to DIY.

What Graphic Designers Do

The US Department of Labor defines graphic designers this way: Graphic designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for various applications such as advertisements, brochures, magazines, and corporate reports. Professional graphic designers don’t throw together a logo or visual identity. Neither do they create these items from a cookie-cutter template. Instead, they get to know you and your company and study your competition. They combine their creative skills with their knowledge of the psychology of color and color theory to select the best colors to represent your brand. They also study your target market and ideal client to the select shapes, fonts, and verbiage they prefer.

When To DIY

In the startup phase, many businesses opt for DIY graphics as a money-saving measure. Turnaround timeline, purpose, and length of use are often an impetus to DIY graphic design. While most graphic design tasks are best left to the pros, there are a few simple things you might be able to do on your own. Once a pro has created your logo and brand identity, you can share it through a variety of outlets. Helping to get your visual identity in front of your target market helps cement it in the minds of your consumers and increases recognizability.

When To Hire A Pro

Knowing when to hire a pro and when to DIY can mean the difference between saving time, and yes, money. Two good rules of thumb:

• If it takes twice as long or twice as many sets of hands and eyes as it should, outsource it.
• If it takes you away from your core competencies or distracts you to the point that it costs you money, outsource it.

Hiring a professional graphic designer is often far more cost-effective than tackling DIY graphic design projects. Hiring a pro, though, does more than save time and money. It helps you stand out from your competitors, avoids the look and feel of a DIY template, and maintains key consistency that grabs the desired attention and helps businesses grow and develop. Professional design can help you get the results you want for your graphic and for your company.

The graphic design professionals at DPRINT have years of experience creating award-winning graphics for businesses, corporations, churches, and organizations of all sizes. Contact us today to get started on the graphic designs that tell the world who you are. If you’re still deciding when to hire a pro and when to DIY, visit us at MYDPRINT. When you choose DIY design, we’re proud to help you print, install, and deliver your works. Call us today to get the help you need to reach the audience you want and create the business success you deserve.