7 Best Workflow Automation Tools for Graphic Designers

In the fast-paced world of graphic design, efficiency and organization are key to meeting project deadlines and satisfying clients. Workflow automation tools can significantly streamline the design process, from conceptualization to delivery. Here are the seven best tools specifically beneficial for graphic designers.

1. Adobe Creative Cloud

   • What is it? A suite of more than 20 desktop and mobile apps and services for photography, design, video, web, UX, and more.
   • Key Features: Cloud storage, Adobe Fonts, Adobe Portfolio, Behance integration, seamless app workflow integration.
   • Pros: Industry-standard tools, wide range of creative apps, excellent integration between apps.
   • Cons: Subscription can be expensive, steep learning curve for beginners.
   • Pricing: Starts at $52.99/month for the complete suite.
   • Best For: Graphic designers looking for a comprehensive set of tools covering every aspect of digital and print design.

2. Canva

   • What is it? An online design and publishing tool aimed at non-designers as well as professionals.
   • Key Features: Drag-and-drop interface, library of templates, collaboration features, content scheduler.
   • Pros: User-friendly, great for quick designs, wide variety of templates.
   • Cons: Limited customization for complex projects, not as powerful as traditional graphic design tools.
   • Pricing: Free version available; Pro version starts at $12.95/user/month.
   • Best For: Solo graphic designers and teams needing a simple, collaborative tool for quick and easy design creation.

3. Sketch

   • What is it? A vector-based design tool for digital interfaces, primarily focusing on web and app design.
   • Key Features: Vector editing, prototyping, collaboration, extensive plugin ecosystem.
   • Pros: Intuitive interface, powerful prototyping capabilities, active community and plugin support.
   • Cons: Mac only, prototyping features can be basic compared to specialized tools.
   • Pricing: License starts at $99/year.
   • Best For: UI/UX and web designers looking for a streamlined tool for designing and prototyping.

4. InVision

   • What is it? A digital product design platform used to make the world’s best customer experiences.
   • Key Features: Prototyping, collaboration, digital whiteboard, integration with design tools.
   • Pros: Good for collaboration and feedback, integrates well with other design tools, strong focus on prototyping.
   • Cons: Can be pricey for full features, workflow can get complex with larger projects.
   • Pricing: Free for one prototype; plans start at $7.95/user/month.
   • Best For: Design teams requiring a collaborative environment for prototyping and workflow integration.

5. Adobe XD

   • What is it? Adobe’s UI/UX design and prototyping tool for websites and mobile apps.
   • Key Features: Vector-based design, prototyping, voice design, Auto-Animate, Adobe Creative Cloud integration.
   • Pros: Seamless integration with Adobe Creative Cloud, real-time coediting, comprehensive prototyping.
   • Cons: Less advanced prototyping compared to standalone tools, steep learning curve for beginners.
   • Pricing: Free starter plan; single app plan for $9.99/month.
   • Best For: Designers looking for an all-encompassing UI/UX solution that integrates smoothly with other Adobe products.

6. ProofHub

   • What is it? All-in-one project planning software that offers a suite of powerful features to streamline the way teams work.
   • Key Features: Task lists, workflows and boards, discussions, document management, time tracking.
   • Pros: Simplifies task assignment and tracking, versatile for different project types, fosters team collaboration.
   • Cons: Can be overwhelming with features if only used for small projects, learning curve for new users.
   • Pricing: Plans start at $89/month for unlimited users.
   • Best For: Graphic design teams looking for a comprehensive project management and collaboration tool.

7. Asana

   • What is it? A project management tool designed to help teams organize, track, and manage their work.
   • Key Features: Task assignments, project timelines, boards, integration with various apps, custom templates.
   • Pros: User-friendly interface, versatile project views, robust integration capacities.
   • Cons: Can be costly for larger teams or with added features, may offer more than needed for solo designers.
   • Pricing: Basic plan is free; Premium plan starts at $10.99/user/month.
   • Best For: Graphic design teams and agencies needing flexible project management software with a strong set of integrations.

For graphic designers, balancing creativity with efficiency can be a constant challenge. Workflow automation tools provide the scaffolding for organizing projects, collaborating with teams, and streamlining the design process. Whether you're a freelance designer or part of a larger agency, the right tool can significantly impact your productivity and the quality of your work.