What is a Desktop Publisher?
Desktop Publisher Definition Format typescript and graphic elements using computer software to produce publication-ready material.
Desktop Publisher Responsibilities
- Position text and art elements from a variety of databases in a visually appealing way to design print or web pages, using knowledge of type styles and size and layout patterns.
- Collaborate with graphic artists, editors and writers to produce master copies according to design specifications.
- Enter text into computer keyboard and select the size and style of type, column width, and appropriate spacing for printed materials.
- Operate desktop publishing software and equipment to design, lay out, and produce camera-ready copy.
- Study layout or other design instructions to determine work to be done and sequence of operations.
- Check preliminary and final proofs for errors and make necessary corrections.
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Skills Needed to be a Desktop Publisher
When polled, Desktop Publishers say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Types of Desktop Publisher
- Online Publisher
- Desktop Support Specialist
- Computer Typesetter
- Computer Operator
- Publisher
Job Opportunities for Desktop Publishers
In the United States, there were 14,600 jobs for Desktop Publisher in 2016. There is little to no growth in job opportunities for Desktop Publisher. There will be an estimated 1,200 positions for Desktop Publisher per year.
The states with the most job growth for Desktop Publisher are Washington, Maryland, and Alaska. Watch out if you plan on working in Missouri, Kansas, or Kentucky. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.
Desktop Publisher Average Salary
Desktop Publishers make between $22,770 and $75,120 a year.
Desktop Publishers who work in Massachusetts, Connecticut, or California, make the highest salaries.
How much do Desktop Publishers make in each U.S. state?
| State | Annual Mean Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $37,670 |
| Arizona | $38,680 |
| California | $56,370 |
| Colorado | $53,330 |
| Connecticut | $55,500 |
| Florida | $41,920 |
| Georgia | $49,220 |
| Illinois | $38,610 |
| Indiana | $34,390 |
| Iowa | $38,640 |
| Kansas | $33,050 |
| Kentucky | $35,850 |
| Louisiana | $33,390 |
| Maine | $35,220 |
| Maryland | $56,770 |
| Massachusetts | $58,000 |
| Michigan | $44,230 |
| Minnesota | $45,830 |
| Missouri | $41,620 |
| Nebraska | $32,970 |
| New Hampshire | $38,980 |
| New Jersey | $47,800 |
| New Mexico | $50,250 |
| New York | $55,260 |
| North Carolina | $47,470 |
| Ohio | $41,720 |
| Oklahoma | $41,000 |
| Oregon | $45,810 |
| Pennsylvania | $41,440 |
| South Carolina | $37,080 |
| Tennessee | $44,850 |
| Texas | $43,950 |
| Utah | $43,040 |
| Vermont | $42,630 |
| Virginia | $50,600 |
| Washington | $46,080 |
| Wisconsin | $50,090 |
What Tools do Desktop Publishers Use?
Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Desktop Publishers:
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Office
- Hypertext markup language HTML
- JavaScript
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Outlook
- Python
- jQuery
- Microsoft Access
- MySQL
- Word processing software
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Project
- Adobe Systems Adobe Acrobat
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microsoft Visio
- Adobe Systems Adobe Photoshop
- Microsoft Publisher
- Microsoft Visual Basic
Becoming a Desktop Publisher
What education or degrees do I need to become a Desktop Publisher?
How many years of work experience do I need?
Desktop Publishers Sector
The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.
Related Careers
Those interested in being a Desktop Publisher may also be interested in:
Those who work as a Desktop Publisher sometimes switch careers to one of these choices:
References:
Image Credit: Auburn University College of Architecture, Design and Construction via Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International
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