Yes, there is some use for Publisher

Roger C. Parker on his design to sell blog has been giving lots of tips for using Microsoft Publisher. He has started a series of postings on Microsoft Publisher’s most overlooked commands.

Well, that got me thinking… Which can be dangerous!

You may be thinking: what’s a designer doing talking about Publisher?

I admit that’s it’s not as easy intuitive to use as professional graphics programs but I do think it’s a great alternative for people who can’t afford — or want to spend — the big bucks on a professional design program (especially since they can cost over $1000).

I’ve had a lot of clients that have Publisher and have asked for projects to be done in Publisher (usually templates so that they can modify them as need be).

Who is it that Microsoft is targeting?

What confuses me about Microsoft is that I’m really not at all sure of who they are targeting. They seem to be aiming at big business. Now, I ask, would big business really be using a program like Microsoft for their design needs? Probably not. It’s too clumsy and limited for that. And printers would have a fit!

I wonder if they’re targeting the wrong audience.

I’m probably being presumptuous, but I think I would definitely target schools. Students can use Publisher to do their class projects. It would also build a potential future client base (they would be using Publisher as teens, so they may prefer it later on). I can’t help but wonder if this isn’t the same as the infamous strategy flop used by Ford to market the Mustang to the wrong demographic!

This past weekend the son of my cousin asked my help to lay a brochure out for him for a school project. I thought of Publisher. I told him that he should use Publisher (which he already has on his computer) and he can do it himself.
A few good reasons why a novice should use Publisher

1. There are hundreds of templates that come bundled with it (and more you can download online)
2. Works seamlessly with Word and the rest of Microsoft Office
3. Short learning curve as the interface resembles Word
4. It’s CHEAP and may already be on your computer
5. Lots of fonts come with it
6. Automates many tasks like preformatted tables, calendars and such.

C O N C L U S I O N

I really can’t wait to get the new version of Publisher! I only have the 2003 version.

I think for the price, it’s a fantastic deal that many can take advantage of. Plus, I think it’s great that someone like Roger has decided to take the patience time to figure out the ins and outs of this program! I certainly wouldn’t!

Technorati Tags: Technology

Related posts:

1. A new way of quickly creating SWF files with MindManager
2. To MAC or not to MAC that is the question
3. One minute designer review
4. Hardly a leap for mankind
5. Watch your creativity and productivity soar!