Unit introduction Many documents incorporate an element of graphics or graphic design. From the layout of the text, to the image used to promote a product, it is expected that there will be some form of graphic representation. Technology allows for the production and reproduction of images to all scales, sizes and colours. Highcapacity storage devices, digital cameras, specialist software and printers mean that high quality and appropriate images can be designed and produced much more easily than before. There is now little excuse for not creating documents that use graphic images effectively.
In this unit, learners will be expected to identify the technical requirements for the creation, storage and manipulation of complex artwork. They will be required to produce original images using drawing packages and also to create and edit electronically captured images. Learners will identify suitable images to enhance documents and use available tools and techniques to ensure that the finished document meets the user need. Learners must be able to understand and recognise the differences that file formats and sizes will make to their chosen image, for example identifying how pixelation and resizing can distort the image and looking at methods to eradicate this distortion. This may include the need to convert files from one graphic format to another and the identification of the most appropriate format in relation to the file’s final use. In order to be sure that the final product meets requirements, formal checking must take place. For example, ensuring things such as the image resolution are appropriate for the intended use or checking the loading speed if the image is intended for a website. All artwork and information chosen must abide by the laws of copyright. It is essential that learners recognise the need to gain permission to reproduce the work of others and that they adhere to the appropriate legislation.
Learning outcomes On completion of this unit a learner should:
1 Know the hardware and software required to work with graphic images
2 Understand types of graphic images and graphical file formats
3 Be able to use editing tools to edit and manipulate images
4 Be able to create and modify graphic images to meet user requirements.
