While desktop publishers and graphic designers may produce much the same type of materials, the OOH describes desktop publishing more in terms of the mechanics of producing books, business cards, newsletters, and packaging. Computer skills and manual dexterity are considered critical for desktop publishers. Web design is also seen as an increasingly important part of both occupations.
The OOH suggests that desktop publishers "with more artistic talent and further education may find opportunities in graphic design or commercial art" making a definite distinction between the fields - based on education and creativity. For the most part, desktop publishers are seen as replacements for compositors and typesetters, taking over traditional methods of prepress work using their computers and software. .
Desktop Publishing Knowledge Can Boost Employability
In addition to jobs specifically for Desktop Publishing, other professions experiencing growth will increasingly require at least basic skills in Desktop Publishing. Some of these professions include secretaries and public relations specialists. Although these figures are specifically for the United States, a world-wide increase in computer use is likely to translate to greater demand for Desktop Publishing in other countries as well.
"...our findings also suggest that [secretaries]are increasingly expected to become 'experts' in some computer graphics applications. These include Desktop Publishing , word-processing packages, spreadsheets and databases..."
- Giles L., La Valle I. and Perryman S. (1996) A new deal for Secretaries?
In some fields where employment is expected to decline, such as Reporters and Correspondents, good word processing, computer graphics, and Desktop Publishing skills can give an applicant a needed edge as competition for the remaining positions heats up.
Less Training Needed to Compete in Desktop Publishing Field
U.S. occupational employment projections through 2006 suggested that jobs requiring at least an associate's degree will experience greater growth than jobs requiring only high school equivalency or less.
A degree is a distinct advantage for employment although not absolutely necessary. For some design jobs, at least a bachelor's degree may be preferred and a master's degree even more desirable. For desktop publishers, less formal education including on-the-job or vocational training is often sufficient for employment.
Unlike many jobs in the computer industry, such as computer engineers and systems analysts, educational requirements for Desktop Publishing most often takes the form of non-degree courses and on-the-job training - making it one computer industry profession accessible to non-college grads.
Although a degree is not usually required, there are still certain skills necessary to successfully compete for Desktop Publishing jobs. Specific software requirements will vary by employer but general skills and knowledge include advanced PC or Macintosh computer skills, basic to advanced design knowledge, prepress skills, and understanding of printing technologies. Much of this knowledge can be obtained from books, courses, and on-the-job training.
Education / Experience UPATE:
Perhaps one of the most significant changes (in the 2006-07 edition of the OOH) is in the area of education and experience. While less formal training for desktop publishers may have sufficed in the past, as the desktop publishing field evolves and grows employers are expecting more education if you don't already have years of experience.
"Most employers prefer to hire experienced desktop publishers; among persons without experience, opportunities should be best for those with certificates or degrees in desktop publishing or graphic design."
Most graphic designers will still need an associate degree or certificate as a minimum (although a bachelor's degree is still the norm) but there is an acknowledgment that computer skills and Web design skills play an increasingly important role in what graphic designers do. The OOH sums it up saying, "Graphic designers with Web site design and animation experience will have the best opportunities."
Primary Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook
