Sometimes there seems to be confusion about what the difference is between the role of a designer and an artworker (sometimes called mac operator).

A designer is someone who understands design principles, typography, user journeys and other theoretical aspects of design, has skills in design software (eg. Photoshop, Indesign, Illustrator) and uses these to create visual solutions to problems and needs of their clients/projects. They may work alone, or with art directors or creative directors (this is usually in agency type of settings) but will lead or have a high amount of input into the direction and visual aspects of the project or design.

Designers can range from junior or entry-level, middle-weight to senior level, depending on their skills and experience.

Artworkers usually work in production environments and have less or no input into the design. Usually the design has been made already and just needs to be updated or made across other templates or sizes (eg. different banner advertising sizes). The artworker may be highly skilled in the software programs which is why the role of an artworker is often confused with that of a designer.

Often designers are called to roles which just require following instructions and making designs to exact specifications, where an artworker would suffice. Other times, artworkers may be called in to lead projects or make design decisions which should be given to a designer. Even in agency settings these roles can often overlap!