A bit about me…
I was recently asked to write a bit of a profile on myself and my role as a Graphic Designer at NHS Dorset. Being third in line was a bit of an honour for me considering the long list of incredibly talented communications professionals across the South West.
This was released in the NHS South West Digital Network email update last week.
Hey! I’m Maryann, here to tell you a bit more about me!
I’m a Lego-building, mum of two boys (and two cats) and a graphic designer at NHS Dorset.
I joined the NHS back in 2017 when I applied for an intern graphic design role fresh out of university. A year later I was a made a permanent, substantial member of the team. If you ask me, I have the best job and get to work with the best people every day. Although I don’t have what some would see as a traditional comms role, we have integrated design into the way we work, and it’s become such a vital part of our comms success in Dorset. My personal mantra and reason I love working here is ‘design that makes a difference’ – a bit fluffy I know!
Now, I know not everyone has a graphic designer in their team, so I thought I’d tell you about my kind and what we get up to. Graphic designers are strategic artists, not just here to ‘make things pretty’ or to ‘make it pop’ – although pretty flyers are a notable outcome from time to time! We look at objectives, audiences and problems, and find a way to communicate and solve those things visually. Because good design isn’t just what it looks and feels like – it’s how it works and functions in the wild. That’s why graphic designers are often involved in things like channel selection.
At NHS Dorset graphic design isn’t an afterthought but an integral way of sharing messages with public, partners and staff. I’ve managed to slot my specialty amongst the team and get involved in projects from the start, considering design every step of the way.
Recently, I have become more interested in making a difference through campaigns; bring deeper audience insight and behaviour change theory into design. I’ve spent time stretching my knowledge from graphic design to campaign planning, evaluation and behaviour change science, and found I love a bit of marketing! That’s what I love about the network; I get to hear and be inspired by all the great things people are up to and learn from them.
What I’m famous for:
Only Order What You Need – Our HSJ-winning medicines waste campaign I’m sure you’ve all heard about now (which was a dream come true to win on my 30th birthday!).
Check Your Blood Pressure – I’ve loved seeing how we can use design to make an impact beyond Dorset. Seeing my artwork used across the South West is such a privilege!
Against HPV (coming to my portfolio soon!) – Our newest vaccination campaign promotes catch up clinics for those who missed their HPV jab at school due to COVID-19. This has been great fun to design and research. Working with my fabulous colleagues across our system.
If anyone would like to find out more about what I get up to or has any questions about my design role, or if there are any other graphic designers out there looking for company and a chat about anything, get in touch!
