Multimedia specialist
Multimedia specialists combine design and technical knowledge to create information and communication technology (ICT) based products that entertain, educate or inform the user.
These include:
Typical outputs include:
When the design is complete, multimedia specialists use authoring software to arrange the files in a single program (to enable interactivity and navigation through the product content). They also test and adjust the product to fix any technical problems, and produce documentation describing the creation, content and processes of files.
Multimedia projects involve a number of tasks that deliver a mix of media and have a computer component to integrate them.
Software development projects bring together media elements into an application to run on a delivery platform which can support a combination of text, sound and images of all kinds. The platform can also control software within a single digital information environment, and covers both on and offline project management and production and make up the majority of multimedia projects.
Hardware-oriented projects focus on, for example, specifying, introducing and integrating a delivery platform such as video-conferencing with a bespoke user front end for an organisation.
Tasks generally include:
In designing products, multimedia specialists use a variety of tools. Industry-standard computer design packages include Adobe Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop, Apple Final Cut Pro, Avid audio production software, Adobe Director, Adobe Flash and Flash 3D Animator, and Adobe Dreamweaver. Using these and other computer packages they are able to incorporate the work of other specialists, including writers, artists, animators, film-makers and video producers, programmers and sound engineers, in the final product.
Depending on the complexity of the product, the authoring of files into a single program may be done by an assistant using hypertext mark up language (HTML) or by a software programmer using 'object oriented' programming languages such as Java or C++.
This area of work is open to all graduates and holders of diploma qualifications, although the following subjects may increase your chances:
Many professionals working in this area have pursued training in both design and technology-related subjects such as animation, photography and computer programming. This combination is useful in developing a set of skills to integrate text, sound and visual elements within a digital environment.
There are a huge number of degree, HND and HNC courses in the UK with 'multimedia' in the title; you should therefore ensure that the content of your course is appropriate to the multimedia career you wish to follow.
Entry without a degree, HND or HNC qualification is possible with a strong portfolio or experience. Graduates from non-relevant disciplines may opt for postgraduate study in design, computing or technology subjects.
Relevant postgraduate courses are offered at various universities. Check the course content for the balance between design and technology skills.
A range of professional courses and qualifications are available, covering topics such as communication and information technology, artwork imaging, website software and software development. Details are available from e-skills UK - The Sector Skills Council for Business and Information Technology .
Candidates will need to show evidence of the following:
Those aiming to become self-employed will also need the following skills:
It is important to build up a strong portfolio of work to demonstrate skills and creativity, either with a CD-ROM, computer game or through a personal website. Employers may ask to see examples of relevant work (this could be produced from your coursework, a work placement or be self-generated on a home computer). Pre-entry experience is desirable and relevant project work or placements are an advantage.
For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.
Employers expect new entrants to be familiar with industry-standard computer design packages, such as Photoshop and Director. Skills in more advanced packages, such as Flash, are often picked up along the way, as they are used, and via online tutorials. You must also develop an understanding of HTML and CSS (the industry standard for styling internet pages).
Most training takes place on the job, with the possibility of employer-funded short courses in various aspects of multimedia design. Some employers offer the chance to gain IT skills under graduate training programmes in areas such as programming or web development.
Skills and knowledge requirements change very quickly in multimedia so you will need to keep abreast of new technological developments. Keep an eye on websites and online forums showcasing the latest industry developments. Learn from your colleagues and peers, especially those who are already working in the role you would like to move into next.
e-skills UK - The Sector Skills Council for Business and Information Technology , in collaboration with employers and educators, has developed the e-skills IT Professional Development Programme. This modular programme represents a professional development path for IT professionals wishing to develop a range of skills including technical, business, project management and communication.
The British Film Institute (BFI) and Creative Skillset: The Sector Skills Council for the Creative Industries publish lists of courses in media and multimedia including animation, computer games and interactive media.
Professional qualifications for multimedia specialists are also available from the BCS (The Chartered Institute for IT) and the Institute for the Management of Information Systems (IMIS) .
Many multimedia professionals choose to develop their careers in IT and pursue format training with Microsoft , ITIL and PRINCE2 certification to develop their technical, problem-solving, service delivery and project management expertise.
Multimedia specialists can work their way up to senior designer/studio manager positions. Some move between different employers to gain wider experience or promotion and salary increases.
Others use their IT skills to move into other areas of information and communications technology (ICT), for example:
Although large organisations generally offer more opportunities for promotion to supervisory and management positions, smaller firms will sometimes offer greater responsibility earlier. They may also provide the opportunity to gain skills and experience across a range of specialisms and in different areas of the business more quickly.
Lecturing in further or higher education may be an option for those who want to pass on their skills and knowledge to others.
Some experienced multimedia specialists become self-employed, working on a contract or consultancy basis and building up their own client base.
Multimedia specialists can find work in a wide range of organisations of all sizes and across all employment sectors. Many are based in the information and communications technology (ICT) industry, working for computer manufacturers, software development companies, telecommunications firms and internet service providers (ISPs).
Many opportunities can also be found within advertising and marketing companies, or technical departments of large organisations.
Other employers are those in the finance and insurance industries, in retail businesses, property, business outsourcing, engineering, manufacturing and transport. Some work in the technical sections of local and central government departments.
Opportunities also occur with charitable and voluntary organisations, in education, publishing, cultural organisations, the leisure industry, broadcasting and the health sector. There may also be opportunities to work abroad.
Many vacancies are handled by specialist recruitment agencies. See the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) website for details.
See also the Mad website for details of media, design, advertising, marketing and technology companies and vacancies.
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