Canva is a online graphic design tool that was created in Australia by Melanie Perkins, Cliff Obrecht and Cameron Adams. Over the last few years it has grown massively online. Whilst it has grown in its popularity it seems to have caused a stir with in the graphic design community.
Should I use Canva?
As a graphic designer and marketer I do use Canva myself. I believe that the platform has a place that I personally find beneficial within my work.
So controversial as the platform might be it certainly has a lot to offer everyone from the novice designer to those working with in graphic design on a daily basis.
How I discovered Canva?
I first discovered Canva a couple of years ago when I became involved in an online market during the time that we were all stuck at home and using the internet more than ever to communicate with each other.
As part of the event the organisers sent out templates to help promote the event. They allowed those taking part to add photos of their products and their brand logo to custom templates and showcase the event.
The beauty of Canva for collaboration is fantastic. As a graphic designer I use the full suite of Adobe programs on my computer and I'm more than capable of creating high quality graphics and artwork. However, not everyone taking part in these events has access to the software or has the skills to be able to create artwork. The event was a makers event so covered everything from design and illustration through to those working with other media like clay and fabric.
Adobe Creative Suite v Canva
As someone who uses a range of programs from Adobe Creative Suite on a daily basis I have the skill set to be able to create high quality images, artwork and even videos. However, Adobes Creative Suite is an expense that others don't necessarily want or need to subscribe to. Canva fills this gap in the market.
It allows small businesses whose expertise are not in in graphic design to be able to market their business successfully and with out added costs.
Why do I use Canva?
I primarily use Canva for 2 reasons.
1 - Inspiration
If I need inspiration for a project I will often type some keywords in the search function of Canva and see what designs it shows me. These then inspire my work in Adobe software.
2 - Time
When I'm planning and creating content for social media. It is easy to spend far too much time as a small business creating content for your social media accounts. So to help manage my time I often use Canva to create social media posts. It is quick and easy to do and templates can be modified to match my brand colours.
So why are Graphic Designers against Canva?
Well... like anything I think they are worried that it dumbs down their skills and allows anyone to be able to create good quality designs.
But... it has its place. Then, so do Graphic Designers. Even with a online platform like Canva you can't know all the theory behind graphic design and also have the creative skill that those working in the industry do. I do believe that there is a place for graphic design and this can be complimented with the use of Canva.
For small business Canva is a great way to keep costs down and allow collaboration with others. Collaboration on Canva is for me one of its key advantages.
All of the images with in this blog post were created using with Canva.
Below is a nice touch from Canva, it sends you milestone certificates when you use its software. A nice little added bonus.
I hope this blog has been useful, make sure you read my other blog posts. If you have enjoyed it make sure you follow me on social media to find out more about my business and my love of graphic design.
Louise Cranstone-Spooner
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