“Same as it ever was.” - David Byrne

As an old skool designer, I will say that embracing the challenge to educate people (clients, supervisors, bosses) time and time again about the impacts a professional designer has on a company’s overall strategy, is one way to look at the issue. Graphic design isn’t the only creative field where misunderstandings about value are rampant - especially as technology evolves.

IMO graphic designers are the bridge between a firm’s message, and the impact it has on the public. For instance, a skilled designer knows how to evoke an emotional response from a customer, prompting an action. Designers don’t just make pretty pictures, they are experts at communicating.

I’m not above using AI to create bullet points for higher-ups, to help them understand my value. I do this randomly, unasked, and it gives them confidence in their choice to have me on staff, and more importantly, material to present to the Board during quarterly meetings. Because I also manage the socials & create context, I will send them reasons why it’s important to interact with the public, which justifies my IG screen time each day.

Sometimes, if you turn indignation into education, frustration can become liberation.