Confessions of a content designer!
Have you ever wondered what content designers REALLY do? It turns out it’s not just about typing away!
What comes to your mind when you hear the words ‘Content Design’? When we hear the words ‘Content Design’, it’s common to associate it solely with the words we write and see.
However, this narrow view limits us. It limits us from grasping the impact Content Design can have beyond mere copywriting. Don’t get me wrong. Writing is part of the game, but it represents only a fraction of what Content Designers do.
Have you ever questioned the role of a UX Designer? No. Because we have readily acknowledged that UX Designers go beyond wireframing. They help shape experiences, evoke emotions, and design straightforward, accessible user journeys.
Now, have you noticed how similar the skill set of a Content Designer mirrors that of a UX Designer? Yet we continue to question the role of Content Design, which often faces unwarranted scepticism or is relegated to a post-design add-on.
Both Content Design and UX Design fall under the broader umbrella of user-centred design, united by a shared vision: solving real user problems. So, let’s peel back on what content designers really do.
Research
A significant portion of Content Designers’ time is devoted to research and gathering information. Ensuring that the content is not only well-written but also accurate and informative.
Content strategy
Beyond just writing, Content Designers contribute to developing content strategies. This involves defining target audiences, content goals, and content roadmaps. Planning helps align the content with organisational objectives while solving user problems.
Editing
After writing content, content designers typically engage in editing and proofreading to ensure that the content is free from errors and maintains a consistent style that adheres to brand guidelines.
UX design
Content Designers collaborate with UX/UI designers to seamlessly integrate content into the design, ensuring a user-friendly experience.
Collaboration and communication
Effective collaboration with cross-functional teams is a cornerstone of Content Design. Engaging with subject matter experts, designers, developers, and other stakeholders is crucial for successful content creation.
Optimisation
Optimising content for search engines (SEO) and user engagement is a continuous effort. This involves keyword research, crafting meta descriptions, and ensuring content discoverability.
Content management
Managing content within content management systems (CMS) is another part of the job. This includes publishing, updating, and archiving content as needed.
Content performance analysis
Monitoring content performance through analytics tools is routine. Insights gathered inform iterative improvements, ensuring the content remains aligned with user needs.
User testing
Conducting user testing and gathering feedback is essential for refining content to meet user needs and expectations.
Training and skill development
Content designers may allocate time for personal and professional development to stay updated with industry best practices and to refine their writing and content-related skills.
There you have it. The insider scoop. The life of a Content Designer is anything but mundane.
Content Designers are a hybrid of strategic thinkers, editors, user experience architects, and constant learners.
So, the next time you encounter a Content Designer, recognise that there’s more to them than meets the eye.
They are the architects of meaningful and impactful user experiences, weaving together the threads of words into a seamless tapestry of engagement and understanding.
