Dallas, TX (PRWEB) July 18, 2012
A brand new feature article on GraphicDesign.com emphasized, “Needing a professional, well-designed online portfolio is a must for graphic designers.” The piece, written by Marywood University Assistant Professor of Graphic Design Christine Medley, examines ways graphic designers can build and host online portfolios.
There are many content management systems (CMS) graphic designers can utilize for a simple or complex online portfolio. From WordPress to Tumblr to Behance to Squarespace, sites specializing in CMS exist in abundance and each has pros and cons. As long as a graphic designer has a little bit of technical know-how, Medley asserts, “WordPress is by far the most common platform to host various types of websites, including portfolio sites, with or without a blog.”
Medley includes screen shots of WordPress, Tumblr, and Behance to allow prospective portfolio builders to see the ins and outs of each.
She also outlined the benefits of Behance, saying it’s perfect for graphic designers: “The Behance Network site is very popular with the creative community, as it’s a network specifically for artists showcasing creative projects as part of a larger portfolio. It’s free, easy to build, and a good place to start getting your art seen, as you can follow and network with others and post seamlessly with Facebook and Twitter.”
Medley emphasized the importance of having a basic understanding of CSS and HTML, noting, “Graphic designers, especially ones just entering the job market, need to be able to understand basic HTML and CSS and build sites themselves through programs such as Adobe Dreamweaver or Muse.” Both pieces of software allow users to create websites from scratch, as opposed to using a CMS option.
What should graphic designers pay attention to when creating an online portfolio? According to Medley’s piece on GraphicDesign.com, content, functionality, and a simple design are three major factors to take into consideration. Overall, her editorial argues, “You can make the best looking site, but if your work isn’t good, then there’s no point in posting it. Pick the best, keep it fresh, and update often.” Content is king.
Three poll questions follow Medley’s article and allow readers of GraphicDesign.com to share their experiences with the community. The editors of GraphicDesign.com constantly seek to engage the site’s readership, so this week, readers are asked:
Which site do you use for your online portfolio?
Do you think a graphic designer should design and build a portfolio site from scratch using a program like Dreamweaver?
Do you have more than one online portfolio?
The poll will remain open until July 29. Visit GraphicDesign.com and weigh in today. The poll article can be found HERE.
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