Let’s say you have already adopted Microsoft 365. You went about setting up all the ‘regular’ apps like Word, Excel, Sharepoint, Teams, etc., and got to work with them. Like most of us, you probably didn’t take too much of a look at some of the unfamiliar apps – until you found out what you could do with them.
As technology continues to advance, so does the landscape of design tools. Microsoft has been a company at the forefront of business apps. Microsoft 365 began with about seven apps. It now offers new users access to over 20.
Microsoft Designer is one of the latest added apps. With its ease and speed of use, this design tool has caught the attention of designers and professionals alike. You can use it whether you're a graphic pro, marketer, or small business owner. Or someone that simply wants to make a funny meme.
Microsoft Designer offers a range of features to streamline your design process. If you haven’t used it yet, you may want to check it out. With AI features and an easy interface, it can elevate your design game. Not to mention saving time and money creating business graphics and the comfort of knowing it comes backed by Microsoft’s excellent Cybersecurity.
Here are the key features:
User-Friendly, Intuitive Interface
This intuitive and user-friendly interface makes Microsoft Designer accessible to both beginners and experienced designers. The tool provides a clean and organized workspace, allowing you to focus on your design without distraction or frustration.
Its user-friendly features include things like:
Drag-and-drop functionality
Contextual menus
Easy navigation
Text prompts to start the design process
The first prompt asks you to “Describe the design you’d like to create.” This makes it simple for someone with no design experience to use it – just describe what you want. Based on your prompt, the system can leverage AI to generate graphics. You can also upload your own.
Comprehensive Design Templates and Assets
Microsoft Designer has several stand-out features. One of them is its extensive wide range of professionally crafted templates and assets, which enable you to kickstart your design projects quickly.
Whether you want to create a business card, flyer, or social media post, this app has you covered. Additionally, the tool offers a vast library of assets. These include:
High-quality images
Icons
Fonts
Color palettes
You can use these to create visually stunning designs that align with your brand identity. The abundance of design assets gives you creative freedom and flexibility. You can have fun bringing your vision to life.
Smart Layout Suggestions and Design Recommendations
By employing Artificial Intelligence (AI), Microsoft Designer becomes a knowledgeable design assistant, going well beyond being a mere design tool. It can analyze your design and provide smart layout suggestions and recommendations. So even if creating images doesn’t come naturally to you, you can still make something nice.
The AI help is useful for those who may be new to design or seeking inspiration. Your “design assistant” can offer optimal font pairings, appropriate image placements, and more.
Microsoft Designer helps you make informed design choices. This elevates the visual impact of your creations. It also keeps you from spending hours on one design.
Seamless Collaboration and Integration
Collaboration is essential in today's digital workspace. Microsoft Designer understands this need. The tool offers seamless collaboration capabilities. It allows several users to work on the same design project simultaneously.
You can easily share your designs with team members or clients. As well as get real-time feedback and edits. Furthermore, Microsoft Designer integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft Office applications. Such as PowerPoint and Word. This creates a cohesive workflow across different design and documentation tasks. The ability to collaborate ensures efficient teamwork. The integration with other tools enhances productivity.
Cross-Platform Support and Accessibility
Microsoft Designer recognizes the importance of cross-platform compatibility and accessibility. The tool is available both as a web application and as a desktop application for both Windows and Mac.
It’s easy to use whether you’re working on your desktop computer or from a mobile device. The tool also adheres to accessibility standards. This means it’s inclusive and usable for individuals with diverse needs.
Use Autogenerate for Ideas
What do you get with the AI-generated option? Just describe your project in reasonably simple terms, like, ‘a flyer a Caribbean style restaurant with parrots and palm trees.’
Within moments, Designer will show you some options, and while some images might not be relevant, it gives many that are. If you’re not getting what you want the first time, rephrase your prompt.
If you're seeking a user-friendly design tool, Microsoft Designer is worth exploring. Whether you're a seasoned designer or a beginner, it can save you time and money.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Microsoft Designer cost?
Microsoft has not yet released pricing for Designer as a stand-alone product, but it will be included with paid subscriptions for Microsoft 365. U.S. users can now access it in Edge from the browser’s sidebar.
Is Microsoft Designer the same as Canva?
Similar, but different, with the edge going to Microsoft Designer, according to Open Startup. Its drag-and-drop functionality and its library of pre-designed templates make it a breeze to create stunning designs. While both tools offer a range of features, Microsoft Designer moves ahead regarding versatility and customization options, while Canva excels in providing a streamlined design experience.
Read Open Startups full comparison HERE.
Which is better Canva or Microsoft Designer?
As always, it’s in the eye of the beholder, but the comparison is similar to that of Microsoft 365 versus Google Workspace: Better features versus being easier for beginners. Microsoft has much more in the way of rich features, whereas Canva is easier for fledgling design enthusiasts.
For a better idea, please look through the comparison in the above FAQ.
Can Microsoft Designer be used for commercial use?
Subject to your compliance with the Designer Agreement and the overall Microsoft Services Agreement, including the Code of Conduct, you may use it for any legal purpose.
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Learn More About Our Microsoft 365 Support
Microsoft 365 is a vast universe of apps. Ones that can lower costs and boost your productivity. From the Office suite to Intune for endpoint management, it’s a valuable asset.
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Give us a call today to schedule a chat about our Microsoft support services. It’s also a great opportunity to take advantage of our FREE network and Cybersecurity risk assessment.
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