Desktop Publisher
A desktop publisher is a professional who uses digital software to design and prepare layouts for printed and online publications, including newspapers, books, and magazines. This role typically involves arranging text and graphics, editing, and collaborating with writers, editors, and graphic designers to create visually appealing materials. Desktop publishers may also engage in web design, reflecting the growing importance of digital publications in the industry. Employment in this field is projected to decline, with a median annual salary of around $51,290. Most desktop publishers hold an associate's degree, although related education in graphic design or journalism can also be beneficial. The work typically occurs in a standard office environment, but some positions may offer flexibility to work remotely. Proficiency in various design and publishing software is essential, and ongoing education is necessary to keep up with technological advancements. Overall, desktop publishing attracts those with interests in art, graphic design, and technical communication.
Desktop Publisher
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Arts, A/V Technology & Communications, Manufacturing
Interests: Art, graphic design, printing, writing
Earnings (Yearly Median): $51,290 per year $24.66 per hour
Employment & Outlook: -13% (Decline)
Entry-Level Education Associate's degree
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job Training Short-term on-the-job training
Overview
Sphere of Work.Desktop publishers use digital word-processing and design software to arrange and prepare design layouts for newspapers, books, magazines, and other materials for print or online publication. Desktop publishers may also work as graphic designers, creating and modifying graphics for publication. Desktop publishers typically work closely with editors, designers, graphic artists, and computer programmers in the design of web-based or printed publications. Depending on their area of employment, desktop publishers may spend time editing and writing text for publication in addition to supervising layout and design. Desktop publishing is utilized by a variety of companies, from traditional print publishers to the many businesses that produce web-based publications for advertising and informational purposes.
Work Environment. Desktop publishers work closely with writers, editors, and designers to complete projects for publication. Those who work on web-based publications may work with web designers or computer programmers to create websites for online publication. They may also work with graphic designers to create and refine fonts, images, and other graphics. Desktop publishing can be performed in a standard office, using a desktop or laptop computer. Some desktop-publishing specialists may be able to complete part or all of their work off-site in a home office.
Occupation Interest. Desktop publishing attracts individuals interested in graphic design, printing, and technical artistry. Many desktop publishers have backgrounds in art or writing. A strong knowledge of both subjects is helpful to anyone interested in the field. Digital design for web publications has become an important facet in the field of publishing, and demand is increasing for desktop-publishing specialists with experience and expertise in web design, digital art, and computer programming.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. The printing process is typically divided into three stages: pre-press, printing, and post-press activities. Desktop publishers are generally considered part of the pre-press team, and they may also spend time working with professionals during the printing process.
Desktop publishers usually work full-time during regular business hours, although overtime or alternate schedules are sometimes necessary during seasonal peak periods or when working on time-sensitive projects. For example, newspapers may require night workers to prepare for early-morning publication. Holidays and special events may also require employees to work extra hours. In some cases, desktop publishers work part-time hours or during varying schedules depending on the deadlines for upcoming projects. Some desktop publishers can work from a home office, but this requires frequent communication and collaboration with other individuals involved in various parts of a project.
During a typical day, a desktop publisher communicates with writers, editors, project managers, and designers about ongoing and upcoming projects. They also gather pictures or artwork from various sources and then arrange the images into a cohesive and attractive layout for publication. Desktop publishers write, edit, proofread, and arrange text and work with various typefaces. Desktop publishers also merge files from design and publishing programs and therefore need to have extensive knowledge of a variety of digital design, writing, editing, and image-processing programs.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Offices and workspaces for desktop publishers tend to be quiet, indoor environments consisting of desks and worktables for laying out print samples. Most desktop publishers work at a desk or worktable with a computer, and may also spend time in a printing room or print shop checking on projects.
Plant Environment. In some cases, desktop publishers work in offices that are attached to industrial printing presses, as is the case with many large-scale magazines, newspapers, and book publishers. Desktop publishers do not typically work in a printing room environment but may visit the printing press to examine printed examples of their projects to ensure that the digital layout transitions well to the printed copy.
Human Environment. Desktop publishers are part of a creative team and work closely with writers, editors, and various design professionals to complete projects. In some cases, companies hire desktop publishers to work on interoffice or professional publications specific to their industry. This often requires publishing professionals to work closely with industry specialists. For instance, a pharmaceutical company interested in publishing printed or web-based information about a specific medication would expect a desktop publisher to work closely with their in-house sales team. They would also expect collaboration with physicians and pharmacists to ensure the information was accurate and clear. In some small companies, there is less interaction between groups since desktop publishers tend to work independently and are responsible for the writing, editing, and graphic design duties in addition to organizing layouts for publication.
Technological Environment. Desktop publishers use specific digital publishing software and other computer programs to create and manage their projects. The digital design software programs produced by Adobe Systems have become one of the industry standards in this field, but it is important for desktop publishing professionals to have experience in a variety of digital composition and graphic design software programs. Artificial intelligence (AI) programs are increasingly utilized in editing and writing. Desktop publishing professionals must also understand computer operation and technical maintenance. Continued education is necessary to stay abreast of software changes or new programs relevant to the field.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. High school students can prepare for a career in desktop publishing by taking classes in journalism, composition, art, and drafting. Some high schools offer graphic design programs and train students in the use of printing and publishing software. In addition, desktop publishers should be knowledgeable about grammar, spelling, and editing procedures, as they typically must check and revise their work prior to printing. Basic English skills developed through a high school education are essential for those pursuing work in the publishing field.
Postsecondary. Community colleges and technical institutes sometimes offer courses and programs in the field of desktop publishing. Typically, desktop publishers hold associate’s degrees in journalism or graphic design.
Individuals can also enter the publishing field by pursuing a bachelor’s degree or higher certification in graphic design, graphic arts, or a specific print-oriented program. Journalism and technical writing programs are viable avenues into desktop publishing when supplemented with courses in computers, computer software, and graphic design.
Related Occupations
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Bibliography
“Desktop Publishers.” Occupational Outlook Handbook, Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Dept of Labor, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/office-and-administrative-support/desktop-publishers.htm. Accessed 27 Aug. 2024.
“Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023: 43-9031 Desktop Publishers.” Occupational Employment Statistics, Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Dept of Labor, 3 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes439031.htm. Accessed 27 Aug. 2024.