How can print graphic designers become experts in digital design?

1 Understand the differences

The first step to becoming an expert in digital design is to understand the key differences between print and digital media. Print media is static, tangible, and has fixed dimensions and resolution. Digital media is dynamic, intangible, and has variable dimensions and resolution. This means that digital design requires more flexibility, interactivity, and responsiveness than print design. You need to consider how your design will look and function on different devices, browsers, and platforms, and how it will engage the users and meet their needs and expectations.

2 Learn the tools and languages

The second step to becoming an expert in digital design is to learn the tools and languages that are essential for creating and developing digital products. Depending on the type and scope of your project, you might need to use different software and applications, such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, XD, Sketch, Figma, InVision, or After Effects. You might also need to learn some basic coding languages, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, or Python. These tools and languages will help you create, prototype, test, and refine your digital design, and communicate with developers and clients.

3 Follow the best practices

The third step to becoming an expert in digital design is to follow the best practices and principles that guide the digital design process. These include user research, user interface (UI) design, user experience (UX) design, accessibility, usability, typography, color, layout, grid, hierarchy, alignment, contrast, balance, harmony, and consistency. These practices and principles will help you create digital designs that are user-friendly, functional, intuitive, attractive, and effective.

5 Build your portfolio and network

The fifth step to becoming an expert in digital design is to build your portfolio and network. Your portfolio is your showcase of your digital design skills and projects. It should reflect your style, personality, and goals as a digital designer. You should update your portfolio regularly with your best and most recent work, and make it accessible and appealing to your potential clients and employers. Your network is your connection to the digital design industry and community. It should include your colleagues, friends, mentors, clients, employers, or online contacts. You should expand your network by attending events, joining groups, participating in forums, or reaching out to people who share your interests and passions.

6 Keep learning and experimenting

The sixth step to becoming an expert in digital design is to keep learning and experimenting with new trends, technologies, and techniques. Digital design is a constantly evolving and changing field, and you need to stay updated and adaptable to the new challenges and opportunities. You should keep learning new skills, tools, and languages, and experimenting with new ideas, concepts, and solutions. You should also keep challenging yourself and pushing your boundaries as a digital designer.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?