Desktop publishing refers to using a computer for the purpose of publishing various types of work, such as books, calendars, magazines, and other printed works. The desktop publisher works by using computer software to combine different types of media, such as pictures and text, arrange them in a presentable way, and optionally perform a final verification process on their quality. Desktop publishers can find employment in a variety of companies, mostly related to mass media, though not always.
Becoming a desktop publisher doesn’t have any specific educational requirements, and a high school diploma is enough in most cases. The skills that employers tend to look for include computer knowledge, dexterity, fast typing, good sense of aesthetics, and in some cases, knowledge of a graphical editor program, in cases when publishers are also tasked with performing some layout modifications and even complete designs. Prior working experience related to design in any way is always beneficial, as is experience in journalism.
The job of a desktop publisher is compensated relatively well, with regards to the amount of work required – the annual salary ranges between $43,000 – $57,000, and the job holds many prospects for further career advancement, due to the specific type of experience attained over the course of employment. Experienced desktop publishers can easily find work in more prestigious publishing houses, securing noticeably more substantial payment. However, the popularity of the job has lead to some overcrowding on the job market in recent years, and it’s become somewhat hard to find a stable job as a desktop publisher without any experience.