10 Must-Have Tools for Every Multimedia Designer's Toolkit
Made with Adobe Firefly, Prompt: multimedia apps concept with phone, keyboard and computer top view, notebooks on work desk
The design industry is a constant revolving door.
New trends are introduced one minute, and old trends leave in the other. It is important as any type of designer to follow all of these trends, especially when it comes to resources and tools to create projects. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new in the field, there are certain tools that every multimedia designer should have in their toolkit. This article will explore ten must-have tools that are essential for every multimedia designer if they want their work to stand out against the masses, and links to examples for each tool.
1. High Processing Computer
A high-processing computer ensures smooth operation of any large design project. This allows creators to work efficiently and without worry as it is less likely to face slowdowns or crashes with the right machine.
According to rtings.com, these are some of the top laptops for design, in different ranges.
2. A Sketchbook
A sketchbook provides a convenient and portable way for multimedia designers to quickly jot down ideas, sketches, and concepts, helping to brainstorm and develop creative concepts on-the-go. Some well known sketchbook creators are Moleskine and Strathmore.
A few of my personal favorite sketchbooks!
3. Project Management System
Have you ever found it difficult to keep track and organize multiple design projects at once? A project management system, such as Asana or Trello, makes the process of organizing, managing, and updating multimedia content much easier. Designers are also able to easily collaborate with their coworkers and clients through these type of resources, making their workflow more streamlined.
A preview of one of my project management layouts
4. Adobe Creative Cloud
The Adobe Creative Cloud suite offers multimedia designers access to a comprehensive suite of industry-standard software tools for graphic design, video editing, motion graphics, and more. As someone who has had access to Adobe Creative Cloud for over 8 years, Adobe evidently has been able to successfully follow design trends across the board and incorporate features that help its users come up with solutions in more simple and innovative ways.
5. Second (Maybe Third) Monitor
Additional monitors provide multimedia designers with extra screen real estate to view multiple applications, references, and project files simultaneously, improving workflow efficiency and multitasking capabilities. There are several options for you to choose from, however it is important to consider some qualities when shopping. Techradar.com notes “With sharper images, higher resolutions, and greater color accuracy, the best monitors for graphic design are a game-changer for your art. “
6. Cloud Storage and Hard Drive
Cloud storage and hard drives offer multimedia designers secure and accessible options for storing and backing up project files, ensuring data safety and enabling collaboration with remote team members. It is recommended that designers have both as options.
Links To Buy The Latest And Greatest Hard Drives
- SAMSUNG T7 Shield External Hard Drive
- Western Digital Elements Portable External Hard Drive
7. Scanner or Scanning Mobile App
A scanner or scanning mobile app allows multimedia designers to digitize physical sketches, illustrations, or textures for use in digital projects, expanding creative possibilities and speeding up workflow. Apps such as Evernote Scannable act as a mobile scanner that will allow you to scan documents such as receipts, photos, business cards, and even sketches right into your phone. With written documents or hand-drawn sketches, Evernote has the option to make the background simpler so you can easily take it into any program and image trace it to make digital creations much easier.
8. Printer
A printer enables multimedia designers to produce physical copies of their work for client presentations, portfolio development, or reference. Depending on the types of projects you face and your budget, you can either get an inkjet or a laser printer. Graphically does a great job at comparing the two and providing a list of the best for both options.
9. Drawing Tablet
A drawing tablet offers multimedia designers a more intuitive and precise way to create digital artwork, allowing for natural hand-drawing gestures and finer control over digital brushes and tools. The ‘best’ drawing tablets also come down to personal preference, but ZDnet provides a list of some good tablets made in 2024 to start research with.
10. Collaborative Design Resources
Resources such as Miro, Mural, or Figma serve as online whiteboards and provide a space for multimedia designers to collaborate, brainstorm and map out ideas. They provide a visual medium to express different avenues for a solution, without having to go to a physical whiteboard or use a paper and pen.
The ten essential tools outlined will be helpful as a starting point for any multimedia designer looking to stand out. By learning and practicing with these tools and resources, designers can produce higher-quality work and generate more creative ideas, at least until the new design trends come through the revolving door.
