Graphic designers plan, analyse, and create visual solutions to communications problems. They decide the most effective way of getting a message across in print, electronic, and other media using a variety of methods such as colour, type, illustration, photography, animation, and various print and layout techniques.

They are able to create promotional displays, packaging, and marketing brochures for products and services, design distinctive logos for products and businesses as well as develop signs and environmental graphics for businesses and the wider community.

Increasingly graphic designers use their talents to design Internet Websites and related interactive and social media.

The initial step in developing a new graphic design is to determine the needs of the client, the message the design must convey and its appeal to its target market. Much of the required information is gathered from meetings with the client and the designers own research.

In creating solutions for customers, graphic designers consider amongst other things the cognitive, cultural, physical, and social factors in planning and executing designs.