The Future of Graphic Design

“Artificial intelligence and augmented reality are going to take over.”

“Who needs a designer when you can just get a template?”

“Most of these things can be automated.”

The truth is, the world is changing. Technology is changing. And as technology becomes more advanced, some repetitive tasks that once needed human input can easily be replaced by machines. I remember when cutting out the background of an image in Photoshop required the meticulous skill of the pen tool or magic wand; now I just hit Select > Subject and, voilà!

I’ve seen a progression of debates over the years from different folks (designers and non-designers) about the level of need for graphic designers and if the skill will become a commodity. I’ve even observed some designers get offended by tools like Canva, because it “dilutes the profession, diminishes my years of study, and makes anyone think they can be a designer.”

Honestly, I don’t get caught up in any of that debate or worry about my future as a designer because there’s one thing I KNOW to be true. Software and technology may change but no one can take away the foundation of my knowledge — design principles, problem-solving skills, branding strategy, and the ability to help identify and solve larger business/communication problems using design as one of the tools…