Graphic Design Practice: business survival skills and behaviours

This report describes the results of a qualitative regional survey of graphic design practice business skills. Specifically, the author collected information from practitioners about studio business survival skills, interpersonal skills, and workplace behaviours and attitudes that are valued by the practitioners. Fifty two experienced Canadian graphic design practitioners working primarily in B.C. were surveyed using an online questionnaire. This resulted in dense and candid commentary on the subject. Based on the survey, common business survival themes and skills emerge. A rich set of business behaviours and attitudes needed to work as a graphic designer are reported. Perhaps surprisingly, the survey respondents value traditional and conscientious, workplace behaviours. The data also suggest that new designers may be inadequately prepared for the business tasks and behaviours of graphic design practice when they enter the field. The implications for better graphic design education in basic business skills and behaviours are noted.