Filling Graphic Design Gaps

Welcome to the forums, Rachel.

Tim makes good points above. I admit, I struggle with creating interesting, appropriate visual looks for my courses, but I usually create something serviceable. Sure, a true graphic designer could do better, but I'm an e-learning pro, not a graphic designer. BIG difference.

How I get better:

1. Practice playing with ideas. I do most of my design work in PowerPoint, and just keep playing with an idea till I have a sort of Master slide that I can create different layouts from. There's only so many layouts you'll need. Tom Kuhlmann created an informative post on different layouts.

2. Keep a folder of cool designs I see: everything from cereal boxes to magazine ads to whatever. For instance, I recently "borrowed" a menu from a popular chain restaurant, because I liked the graphic design. When you get stuck (or want to challenge yourself) take a look at the folder and try to create something similar.

3. Get a hold of Robin Williams' Design books. I have the Non-Designer and Workshop books. She's great at explaining design concepts to non-designers. Hope that helps somewhat. --Daniel