Many people think that print media is something that’s going to go out of style soon. Who needs a physical book or a physical newspaper in your hands to access information when you have the internet, smartphones, and digital books, magazines, and newspapers? But even with the ease and convenience of digital media, people still want the magazine and ebook “pages” to resemble an actual, in real life book or magazine. That’s where a desktop publisher comes in. If you’re looking to work in technology, but still love the idea of being involved in media, this could be the perfect fit! Find out more about what you can look forward to as a Desktop Publisher below!

What, exactly, is a Desktop Publisher?
Primarily, a desktop publisher is someone who uses computer software to design page layouts for newspapers, books, brochures, and other media that’s published online or printed. The desktop publisher will create a page layout or design that will allow the reader to easily consume information. They also strive to make the page(s) they design pleasing to the eye in order to be true a brand, personality, or subject. Most desktop publishers work for newspaper, periodical, book, and directory publishers and often work full time, though depending on publication deadlines, may find themselves working over 40 hours per week.

What does a Desktop Publisher do day-to-day?
As a desktop publisher, your daily work could include tasks like:

• Reviewing text, graphics, or other materials created by writers and designers.
• Editing graphics, such as photos or illustrations.
• Importing text and graphics into publishing software.
• Integrating images and text to create cohesive pages.
• Adjusting text properties, such as size, column width, and spacing.
• Revising layouts and make corrections as necessary.
• Submitting or uploading final files for printing or online publishing.

Though it can be a mostly solitary position, you’ll often find yourself working with other design, media, or marketing workers to develop and perfect content and different publications.

How to Become a Desktop Publisher
If you’re interested in the publishing and design field but don’t know where to get started, the best first step is to do some research! Most desktop publishers need to complete a diploma or degree program in the field that covers different software and techniques that would be used regularly at work. After completing their education, most companies will have short term on the job training for new desktop publishers. You’ll learn by working closely with those more experienced in the field and desktop publishers often continue learning throughout their career, as software is updated and changed frequently.

If artistic, detail-oriented, and tech-savvy describes you, working in the field of desktop publishing and design could be the right step on the path to a fulfilling career in technology! To find out more about what you’d learn and see how going back to school could fit your future, check out an ICS' online Desktop Publishing and Design program and browse a sample lesson!