TORONTO - Most graphic designers work for small businesses creating corporate logos and brands, according to a new national survey on the industry's salaries and billing practices. Conducted in the spring of 2001 by the Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario (RGD Ontario) and Aquent, the survey was the first of its kind in Canada.

"For some, the survey is a reinforcement to their billing practices. For others, it may encourage a reevaluation of the importance of their product. For the consumer, it hopefully provides a clearer understanding that buying design is an investment," says Tony Jurgilas, President of Association of Registered Graphic Designers in Ontario.

Results showed that 44 per cent of designers who charge an hourly fee charge less than $50 and that 51 per cent who are paid hourly make $15-$24 per hour. Findings also showed that most designers worked locally and considered word of mouth recommendation to be their best form of marketing.

Jurgilas also said that the results confirmed that salaries and billing are directly linked to the designer's location. Ontario posts the highest rates, due to having the largest volume of firms and clients. "The purpose of the survey is not to set a national standard fee structure for the practice of graphic design, but to provide designers and consumers with some idea of where they fit within their respective markets, large or small."

Regardless of market size, the majority (57 per cent) of respondents had completed three or four-year degrees in graphic design. "It's reassuring, to the industry and the consumer, that the majority of respondents have been schooled in our discipline."

The RSD in Ontario plans to begin conducting the survey bi-annually and aims to increase responses in more remote areas. You can find the entire survey at www.rgdontario.com/survey/.

 

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