Course Content
1. The elements of communication
2. Internal communication plan
3. Metrics
4. Conclusions
Communication 4.0 represents a challenge due to the enormous speed of digital transformation. We have reviewed external communication processes with an emphasis on the digital tools needed to effectively communicate our ideas and reach our target audience, stressing the creation of Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. We have also seen the need for a digital marketing strategy that allows us to define our objectives and the subjacent principles that govern any marketing proposal. On the other hand, we have seen the creation of an internal communication plan, highlighting the most remarkable features and the need for open and fluid communication between employees. We closed our module with a brief approach to social media metrics to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of our communication strategies. In short, we focused on practical creation, promoting a step-by-step vision of development and implementation. We hope this module can contribute to achieving your goals and help you to lead your future communication strategy. Remember that adaptation is a fundamental competence of the creation process and, therefore, we want to encourage you to be updated on the trends of communication 4.0 and to make the most of your efforts.
2.6 Extra tools for graphic design
For designers, software becomes an extension of their artistic abilities. They memorise keyboard shortcuts, become familiar with layouts and generally treat their favorite software as a second language. Having an intuitive and flexible programme is important.
So, which design software should you choose? Are you looking for the flexibility and expensiveness of Photoshop, or are you looking for something simpler—and inexpensive?
Best paid graphic design software:
Adobe Photoshop:
Adobe Photoshop is easily the most recognisable of the graphic design software. From basic cropping that your grandmother could figure out to more complex raster designs, when it comes to image manipulation Photoshop can do it all. Photoshop is known for classic features like the pen tool, layers and masks, but the most recent version adds some cool tricks such as a Frame tool for easy masking and a new Content-Aware Fill workspace. With a potentially limitless skill ceiling, Photoshop is a great graphic design skill to start learning. Best used for: image editing.
Sketch:
A vector-based tool only available on Mac, Sketch is a programme focused mainly on web, app and interface design. It’s recently put a dent in the graphic design competition, with some developers preferring Sketch files from designers rather than layered Photoshop files. Though Sketch isn’t meant for photo editing or print work, it’s great for designing icons and interfaces that you’ll see on websites and mobile apps. Designers can also create live comps that developers can preview by tapping or swiping through to see what they’ll look like once published. Best used for: user interfaces.
Adobe Illustrator:
Photoshop and Illustrator share some similar tools and functions, but Adobe Illustrator is centred around vector design. Put together beautiful logos, typography, icons and sketches with Illustrator’s mesh tool, pen tool, swatches and colours, or Shape and Pathfinder tools. Though it’ll take some extra time to learn, the nearly limitless potential for creating vector designs is worth the effort. Best used for: vector images.
Affinity Designer:
In terms of function and style, Affinity Designer is an impressive, low-budget alternative to Adobe Illustrator. Affinity even gets praise for being easier to use and faster that Illustrator, especially when working with layers. It’s suitably simple for beginners to use as a learning tool but sufficiently powerful for freelance graphic artists on a budget. Affinity also recently got a big upgrade with new features and performance improvements. This software a great option for anyone who doesn’t want to splurge on the Adobe offering, but needs something that performs on a high level. Best used for: Vector files.
Adobe InDesign:
A must-have for the publishing community, Adobe InDesign has been used for laying out magazines and newspapers since 1999. Put together stunning magazines, info sheets and brochures and easily export them to PDF or HTML. Though it’s kind of a one-trick pony, InDesign has a low learning curve and is great for newbies learning how to combine text and graphics. Best used for: publishing layouts.
Best free graphic design software:
GIMP:
Perhaps the most popular open-source, free raster graphics editor, GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Programme) has many of the same features that paid-for programmes have. Though its layout isn’t as sexy as, say, Photoshop, you still get the advanced photo retouching, drawing and cropping capabilities of the better-known programmes. Best used for: raster images
Gravit Designer:
Gravit Designer is a free vector design application that’s great for logo making, photo manipulation, illustrations and animations. You can use Gravit online with their cloud-based software—though some reviews claim that it runs a bit slower than the locally-installed version. The layout is sleek and fully customisable, but Gravit Designer Pro is no longer free ($49 per year). Best used for: vector images.
Inkscape:
There’s something beautiful about a good community. Inkscape’s user base is passionate and helpful, with this cross-platform software bringing out the best of open-source design. Users can put together good-looking graphics and designs with the breadth of learning resources available. However, a steep learning curve, clunky interface and less-than-stellar Mac version keep Inkscape from being a perfect programme. Best used for: vector images and SVG file format.
Vectr:
Accessed through your web browser or its standalone app, Vectr is great for designing (you guessed it) vector images. For high-end designers, Vectr likely doesn’t have all of the features you’ll want. But casuals and amateurs alike will find the low learning curve attractive. Plus, there are dozens of tutorials available on their website for newbies. Best used for: vector images.