A Comprehensive Tutorial on Design Software in 2020

Design software has evolved significantly over the years, and 2020 was no exception. This tutorial provides an in-depth look at the major design software available in 2020, exploring their features, functionalities, and applications. Whether you’re a graphic designer, UX/UI designer, or someone interested in design, this guide will help you understand the tools that shaped the design industry in 2020.

1. Adobe Creative Cloud Suite

Adobe Creative Cloud Suite remains a staple in the design world. The suite includes several key applications:

• Photoshop: Primarily used for photo editing and manipulation. In 2020, Photoshop continued to innovate with features like Content-Aware Fill, enhanced Object Selection tools, and improved performance on large files.
• Illustrator: Known for vector graphics design. Updates in 2020 included more intuitive vector editing, enhanced glyphs support, and improved collaboration features.
• InDesign: Essential for layout design. The 2020 updates focused on better typography features, improved collaboration tools, and support for various output formats.
• XD: Used for UX/UI design. Adobe XD in 2020 offered features like Auto-Animate, voice prototyping, and a variety of plugins to streamline design workflows.

2. Sketch

Sketch is another popular tool for UX/UI design. In 2020, Sketch emphasized collaboration and efficiency with features like:

• Shared Libraries: Allowing designers to create and share design assets across teams.
• Symbols: Simplifying the design process by reusing design elements.
• Plugins: A robust ecosystem of plugins to enhance functionality and streamline repetitive tasks.

3. Figma

Figma gained popularity for its cloud-based design capabilities. Key features of Figma in 2020 included:

• Real-time Collaboration: Multiple designers can work on a project simultaneously.
• Components: Helps in maintaining consistency across design projects.
• Design Systems: Allowing teams to create and manage design systems effectively.

4. Affinity Designer

Affinity Designer is known for its affordability and powerful features. In 2020, Affinity Designer offered:

• Vector and Raster Tools: Combining both vector and raster editing in one tool.
• Precision: Advanced grid and snapping options for detailed design work.
• Performance: Optimized for speed and efficiency, even with complex projects.

5. CorelDRAW

CorelDRAW is a long-standing design tool with a focus on vector graphics. Updates in 2020 included:

• CorelDRAW 2020: Enhanced with new vector tools, improved text handling, and advanced color management features.
• Collaborative Tools: Allowing for easier sharing and feedback within design teams.

6. Canva

Canva is known for its ease of use and accessibility. In 2020, Canva continued to cater to both professional designers and beginners with:

• Template Library: Offering a wide range of pre-designed templates for various purposes.
• Drag-and-Drop Interface: Simplifying the design process for users of all skill levels.
• Collaboration Features: Allowing teams to work together on design projects seamlessly.

7. Inkscape

Inkscape is a free and open-source vector graphics editor. In 2020, Inkscape provided:

• Extensive Features: Including advanced vector editing tools and support for various file formats.
• Community Support: A strong community providing plugins and extensions to enhance functionality.

8. Gravit Designer

Gravit Designer is another versatile design tool that gained traction in 2020. Key features included:

• Cross-Platform Availability: Accessible on various operating systems through a web-based platform.
• Vector Editing Tools: Robust vector editing features suitable for various design projects.
• User Interface: A modern and intuitive interface that simplifies the design process.

Conclusion

The design software landscape in 2020 offered a diverse range of tools catering to various design needs. From powerful suites like Adobe Creative Cloud to accessible options like Canva and Gravit Designer, each tool provided unique features and functionalities to enhance the design process. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting, understanding these tools will help you make informed choices and stay ahead in the ever-evolving design industry.