Continuing Education

No matter what education and training brought you to becoming a designer, you will need to continually stay on top of developments in your field. At a minimum, subscribe to several design publications, visit design websites and blogs regularly, and join your local design club. Join the nearest chapter of the AIGA and familiarize yourself with all that they offer.

Time is always at a premium, but if you don't find time to educate yourself beyond the minimum, your work will become stale and perhaps no longer in demand. Find time to read books on design. You don't have to limit yourself to software manuals, though they are extremely valuable. Any design related book will expand your knowledge and understanding. (See bibliography.)

Conferences are a great way to immerse yourself in new ideas without dedicating a lot of time. In one day you can hear several speakers. Look into community colleges and universities for the best value. Professional organizations also hold conferences, but they usually cost more and last longer.

For a bigger boost, you might take a full semester class, or even pursue another degree. This route is most helpful if you want your business to move into a new technology or specialty where you have a weakness. Or you might want to augment your strengths with a class in marketing, writing, photography, or another complementary discipline. Especially if years have gone by since your last class, going back to school will open your eyes to a lot of new ideas.

As a designer, you can use knowledge from any field or art form to better understand and inspire your own. So follow any interest you have with the confidence that the more you have to draw upon, the better you will design. Your unique collection of interests and skills is what sets you apart from the competition.