What is the right software to use for my project?

Question

I have a vision for a project, but what are the right tools for the job? There are so many creative programs out there, which is the right one for me to use?

For example, I'm heading up a marketing campaign. I'll be needing a combination of digital and print designs for animated social posts, printed large-scale event banners, and a new website.

Answer 1

While most creative software can function in multiple arenas, each has a definite speciality. To answer the question most simply, I'll list out the #1 program(s) I'd recommend for a given project type, as well as options for other software you could use in collaboration with that main program. Also, as a disclaimer, not all my recommendations are limited to the Adobe Creative Suite.

PRINT DESIGNS

Types of print design projects: Editorial publications (magazines, books, newsprint), event banners and signage, flyers, stationary, etc.

Best overall program: Adobe InDesign

Best supporting programs: Adobe Photoshop (for image editing and preparation), Adobe Illustrator (if the project involves creating any complex graphics beyond simple shapes).

SOCIAL MEDIA

Types of social design projects: Ecommerce posts, animated graphics and/or videos, branded profile imagery, infographics, featured images and graphics, etc.

Best overall program: Adobe Illustrator

Best supporting programs: Adobe After Effects (for creating motion graphics and basic video editing), Adobe Photoshop (same as above).

WEBSITES/APPS

Types of design projects: Responsive websites (that work on any device's browser), mobile apps, and anything related in terms of digital imagery.

Best overall program(s): Figma or Sketch or Adobe XD (in order of preference)

Best supporting programs: Adobe Photoshop (same as above), Adobe Illustrator (for creating icons, symbols, and graphics). Adobe programs will work harmoniously with Figma or Sketch.

PACKAGING DESIGNS

Types of design projects: Consumer product packaging (basically anything you can buy that comes wrapped in a box, bag, pouch, bottle, etc.)

Best overall program: Adobe Illustrator

Best supporting programs: Adobe Photoshop (same as above)

I could spend a lot more time explaining the "why" behind my recommendations, but this is meant to serve as a jumping-off point to at least push you in the right direction.