ABSTRACT

Good design sells books–whether it is the cover of a novel attracting an impulse buyer in a shop, or the effective use of typography and illustrations in a school textbook. Some publishers, especially in the highly illustrated book and art book markets, are actively design-led. Their design standards are used as a marketing and sales tool internationally. Publishers have changed the work and system processes of publishing content in order to move from a print only world to a mixed print and digital world. With regard to the text design, the basis of the book designer’s job is visual planning. The use of freelancers or agencies to design books or websites is widespread. They are commonly commissioned by editors, production staff, or in-house designers. The preparation of artwork is mainly outsourced, and some publishers and packagers employ illustrators and designers on short-term contracts. Designers have technical proficiency and usually a vocational qualification.