Become a Brand Identity Designer

If you’ve always been interested in a career in graphic design but have no previous experience in the industry, then this Graphic Design Pathway Program from Open Colleges could be just what you’re looking for. The course combines the D0121 Graphic Design Essentials with the CUA50720 Diploma of Graphic Design giving you a fast-track to a graphic design career.

The CUA50720 Diploma of Graphic Design encompasses comprehensive training in all facets of graphic design, which is essential to assume a position as a Junior Graphic or Digital Designer, Freelance Designer or Content Developer. Participants will learn how to combine technical, creative and conceptual skills to develop designs that satisfy client requirements and tackle a range of visual communication challenges.

The program is specifically intended to provide participants with job-ready skills; hence, all assessments have a real-world focus to prepare students for various types of design briefs and graphic design roles that they will encounter after graduation.

Throughout the course, participants will build a portfolio of work that demonstrates their skills, ideas, creativity, and capability to meet client briefs. This portfolio can serve as a valuable resource when approaching potential employers and clients.

PLEASE NOTE – Open Colleges is a privately-run RTO, not government-run like a TAFE, so they cannot offer government funding. Please check eligibility requirements before beginning an enrolment with Open Colleges.

What is a Brand Identity Designer?

A career as a Brand Identity Designer is an exciting and dynamic path that combines creativity with strategic thinking. These professionals play a crucial role in shaping how a brand is perceived by the public. They are responsible for creating and maintaining a cohesive visual identity that resonates with the target audience, ensuring that every element—from logos to colour schemes—reflects the brand’s values and mission. This role is perfect for those who have a passion for design and a keen understanding of branding principles.

Brand Identity Designers engage in a variety of responsibilities that require both artistic talent and analytical skills. They begin by consulting with clients to understand their vision, goals, and the unique aspects of their brand. This involves conducting thorough research to analyse market trends and competitor branding. Once they have a clear understanding, they develop design concepts that effectively communicate the brand’s message. This process often includes creating sketches, digital mock-ups, and presentations to showcase their ideas to clients.

In addition to designing logos and visual elements, Brand Identity Designers also oversee the implementation of their designs across various platforms. This includes ensuring that branding is consistent across digital and print media, packaging, and advertising campaigns. They collaborate with marketing teams to create promotional materials that align with the brand’s identity. Furthermore, they may also be involved in developing brand guidelines that outline how the brand should be represented visually, ensuring that all future communications maintain the established identity.

Overall, a career as a Brand Identity Designer offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on a brand’s success. It is a fulfilling role for those who enjoy working in a creative environment and thrive on collaboration. With the ever-evolving landscape of branding and design, this profession promises continuous learning and growth, making it an exciting choice for aspiring designers.

Career snapshots For Brand Identity Designers

The role of a Graphic Designer is integral to the visual communication landscape, focusing on creating compelling designs that meet commercial and communication needs. This profession is characterised by a blend of creativity and technical skills, making it a dynamic career choice for many.

Average Age: 37 years
Gender Distribution: 59% female
Hours Worked: Average full-time hours per week is 41
Average Salary: Ranges from $65,000 to $80,000 annually
Unemployment Rate: Relatively low, with a stable demand for skilled designers
Employment Numbers: Approximately 27,500 Graphic Designers are currently employed in Australia
Projected Growth: The industry is expected to see steady growth, driven by the increasing need for digital content and branding

Graphic Designers typically work in various sectors, including professional services, manufacturing, and media. Their skills are essential in creating visual content that resonates with target audiences, making this a rewarding career path for those with a passion for design.

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 2021 Census of Population and Housing.

What will I do?

A Brand Identity Designer plays a crucial role in shaping the visual and emotional aspects of a brand. This professional is responsible for creating a cohesive identity that resonates with the target audience, ensuring that every design element aligns with the brand’s values and messaging. Through a combination of creativity, strategic thinking, and technical skills, a Brand Identity Designer crafts logos, colour palettes, typography, and other visual elements that define a brand’s presence in the market.

Consult with clients and stakeholders – Determines the objectives and constraints of the design brief through discussions with clients and relevant parties.
Conduct research – Undertakes research to analyse functional communication requirements and understand the target audience.
Develop design concepts – Formulates innovative design concepts that effectively communicate the brand’s message.
Create sketches and layouts – Prepares sketches, diagrams, illustrations, and layouts to visually communicate design ideas.
Negotiate design solutions – Collaborates with clients, management, and production staff to negotiate and refine design solutions.
Select materials and media – Chooses and specifies functional and aesthetic materials and media for publication, delivery, or display.
Document designs for production – Details and documents the selected design for production, ensuring all specifications are met.
Oversee production – Supervises or carries out the production process in the chosen media to ensure quality and adherence to the design.
Archive design information – May archive information and design assets for future client use or reference.

What skills do I need?

A career as a Brand Identity Designer requires a unique blend of creativity, technical skills, and strategic thinking. Designers in this field must possess a strong understanding of visual communication principles, including typography, colour theory, and layout design. Proficiency in design software such as Adobe Creative Suite is essential, as is the ability to create compelling brand narratives that resonate with target audiences. Additionally, strong research skills are necessary to analyse market trends and consumer behaviour, enabling designers to craft identities that stand out in a competitive landscape.

Effective communication and collaboration skills are also crucial for a Brand Identity Designer, as they often work closely with clients, marketing teams, and other stakeholders to ensure that the brand’s vision is accurately represented. A keen eye for detail and the ability to adapt to feedback are important traits, as designers must refine their concepts based on client input and market demands. Ultimately, a successful Brand Identity Designer combines artistic talent with a strategic mindset to create memorable and impactful brand experiences.

Skills/attributes

Strong understanding of design principles
Proficiency in design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite)
Ability to create and maintain brand guidelines
Excellent communication skills
Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities
Attention to detail
Understanding of typography, colour theory, and layout
Ability to conduct market research and analysis
Collaboration skills for working with clients and teams
Time management and organisational skills
Adaptability to changing trends and technologies
Portfolio showcasing a range of design projects
Knowledge of print and digital media
Ability to present and explain design concepts effectively
Understanding of user experience (UX) principles

How to Become a Brand Identity Designer: Australian Careers in Design

What is a Brand Identity Designer?

Career snapshots For Brand Identity Designers

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Skills/attributes

Resources

Career Outcomes