What Does an Interactive Designer Do?
Interaction designers, also known as interactive designers, create and produce digital solutions for multimedia, such as cell phone applications, video clips, and websites. They apply evolving technology while using their creativity and imagination to conceptualize end results. Graphic designers produce similar work, and these positions may overlap. Designers may be employed full-time by companies or work as self-employed freelance professionals from the comfort of their homes. They spend many hours in an office environment seated behind a computer. Freelance designers must constantly be on the lookout for new assignments.
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Interaction Design Career Requirements
| Degree Level | Bachelor's degree |
| Degree Fields | Graphic design, multimedia design, digital design, or visual arts |
| Experience | 3-7 years of software program and design experience |
| Key Skills | Creativity; expertise in graphic design for both print and digital media; ability to conceptualize designs; ability to demonstrate marketing, communication, and copy editing skills; proficiency with a range of computer software, including Adobe Creative Suite, HTML, CSS, Microsoft Office, and Flash in addition to applications for social media, websites, and animation |
| Median Salary (2019) | $52,110 (for all graphic designers) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
What Is Interaction Design?
In order to become a good interaction designer, you will need to understand your field in a lot of detail. Interaction design is closely linked to other fields like graphic design, and as such requires both technical and artistic skills. As technology evolves, so does this field; even a couple of decades ago, interaction design was nothing like it is today. Interaction design may vary by contract, but it could include things like:
- Coding
- Concept art
- Web design
- Product testing
- Animation
How to Become an Interaction Designer
If you have ever wondered how to become an interaction designer, take a look at the steps to become one below:
Step 1: Obtain Certificate or Associated Degree in Interactive Design
An aspiring interaction designer can begin his or her educational experience by enrolling in a certificate or associate's degree program at a community college or vocational school. Colleges offer certificate programs in areas like web and interaction design. The required courses in these programs may qualify for college credit towards an interaction design degree while providing foundational skills in design. Associate's degree programs in web and interactive design also provide these skills, and both of these options typically include portfolio development.
Step 2: Build an Interaction Design Portfolio
Many programs integrate portfolio development with coursework. If they don't, it's still important to develop a portfolio with strong examples of work. This can help professionals demonstrate their interaction designer skill set to potential employers, and portfolios are often an essential factor in obtaining employment, according to the BLS.
Step 3: Apply for an Entry-Level Job While in School
With some schooling and training, aspiring interaction designers can apply for entry-levels positions. Some companies hire junior interaction designers with minimal or no degree expectations.
Step 4: Complete a Bachelor's Degree Program
Employers increasingly seek applicants who possess 4-year bachelor's degrees with emphasis in advertising, graphic design, or a related field, meaning that an interaction design major could be very helpful for your future career. Colleges or universities may offer degrees specifically focusing on interaction design, such as the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Interaction Media Design. General education requirements are a part of these degree programs, along with technical classes, like graphic, web, and interaction design fundamentals. Post-baccalaureate certificate programs are also available in web and interactive design for those who obtain an interaction design degree.
Step 5: Get a Job in Interaction Design
As of 2015, the BLS recommended prospective interaction designers have bachelor's degrees along with technical skills and portfolios displaying their talents. Experience may be required in flash, HTML, and Photoshop. Advertising agencies and businesses that specialize in animation or website design commonly hire interaction designers. Career paths for interaction designers might vary significantly based on their specific interests and skills. Some might work freelance, while others might be hired by companies or even teach their skills to others.
Interaction designers create and produce digital artwork for multimedia. They are expected to be creative with college degrees and professional proficiency in a range of graphics programs. Additionally, they earn a median annual salary of $52,110.
