Profession desktop publisher

Desktop publishers are responsible for the layout of publications. They use computer software to arrange texts, photographs and other materials in a pleasing and readable finished product.

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Personality Type

Knowledge

  • Desktop publishing

    The creation of documents using page layout skills on a computer. Desktop publishing software can generate layouts and produce typographic quality text and images.

  • Prepress processes

    The processes that occur between the creation of a print layout and the final printing, such as copyediting, proofing, proofreading and others.

  • ICT software specifications

    The characteristics, use and operations of various software products such as computer programmes and application software.

  • Typography

    The procedure of arranging written texts for printing processes.

  • Multimedia systems

    The methods, procedures and techniques pertaining to the operation of multimedia systems, usually a combination of software and hardware, presenting various types of media such as video and audio.

  • Printing techniques

    The techniques and processes to reproduce text and images using a master form or template such as letterpress printing, gravure, and laser printing.

  • Graphic design

    The techniques to create a visual representation of ideas and messages.

  • Copyright legislation

    Legislation describing the protection of the rights of original authors over their work, and how others can use it.

Skills

  • Follow a brief

    Interpret and meet requirements and expectations, as discussed and agreed upon with the customers.

  • Adapt to artists' creative demands

    Work with artists, striving to understand the creative vision and adapting to it. Make full use of your talents and skills to reach the best possible result.

  • Follow work schedule

    Manage the sequence of activities in order to deliver completed work on agreed deadlines by following a work schedule.

  • Apply desktop publishing techniques

    Apply desktop publishing techniques and software to create page layouts and typographic quality text.

  • Adapt to type of media

    Adapt to different types of media such as television, movies, commercials, and others. Adapt work to type of media, scale of production, budget, genres within type of media, and others.

  • Search databases

    Search for information or people using databases.

  • Align content with form

    Align form and content to make sure they fit together.

  • Translate requirement concepts into visual design

    Develop visual design from given specifications and requirements, based on the analysis of the scope and target audience. Create a visual representation of ideas such as logos, website graphics, digital games and layouts.

  • Finish project within budget

    Make sure to stay within budget. Adapt work and materials to budget.

Optional knowledge and skills

edit negatives perform image editing digitise documents scan photos proofread text grammar perform backups apply grammar and spelling rules edit photographs post-processing of photographs reprography work closely with news teams spelling develop creative ideas consult with editor assist customers identify customer's needs

Source: Sisyphus ODB