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Communications manager: Thom

This Case Study belongs to Graphic designer.

Whilst completing a computer-aided product design HND, Thom did some work experience with a small design studio and was offered a permanent trainee position. Thom was involved with a variety of projects which enabled him to build a varied portfolio, especially in the areas of photography and computer-aided design (CAD). Building upon this and acquiring further skills, he chose to focus his career on graphic design, a perfect combination of arts and technology.

Thom then progressed to the role of graphics designer for an aerospace engineering company in the South East of England. Here he was responsible for brochure and magazine design; website design and content management; video editing; computer visualisation; exhibition graphics and copy writing. He believes he was successful in gaining this position 'as a result of acquiring a broad base of skills and manipulating opportunities to ensure those skills were made available to the right people at the right time.'

Thom really enjoys the variety and creativity within graphic design, and feels that the only downside is 'creating a fantastic design that you think really hits the mark, only to discover that nobody else shares your enthusiasm!'

Building a strong portfolio is essential for interviews in the design industry, and it should reflect, where possible, the trends and developments within graphic design, from hand- to computer-generated images, the printed page and the more dynamic media-rich on-screen environment of the internet, video and animation.

Thom suggests that in order to be successful in graphic design you should be prepared to change to meet the needs of customers, yet acquire the confidence to lead their ideas and challenge accepted thinking. It is essential to be technically proficient with the tools used - computers and the humble pencil and paper, and to keep abreast of design trends and technological developments. The role also needs an ability to observe and absorb influences objectively, metaphorically and practically filing them away for future interpretation. He suggests that analytical and questioning skills are invaluable, along with the ability to be concise and provide clarity of message: 'Graphic design is a communications medium and doesn’t benefit from clutter.'

The combination of effective written language with clear, creative and purposeful design is Thom’s real motivation and this led him to embark on an English literature and language degree with the Open University. He has recently moved to the position of communications manager with a large construction firm, where he can develop this aspect of his career further. He believes his current position is stronger because of his graphic design background and his skills are highly relevant - compiling design briefs, assessing the qualities of subcontracted projects, and the development and maintenance of the corporate brand.

Case Study sourced by Jill Baldwin of Writtle College, 03 April 2008.