Updated January 4, 2023
A desktop publishing (DPT) operator is a professional with in-depth knowledge of many desktop publishing aspects. DTP operators are able to provide comprehensive and attractive information about the product in a presentable manner with the help of the numerous types of designing software currently available.
They must be aware of all essential computer hardware and applications. A keen eye for editing the various components used in the published text is also advantageous. DTP specialists have a strong sense of design, great attention to detail, and artistic talent.
The performance of a company as a whole relies on how effectively these professionals present the information. Half of the work for the organization to promote its product is done if these DTP operators can engagingly deliver the content. As a result, these professionals will be in high demand both now and in the future.
What Does a DTP Operator Do?
A DTP operator is vital for converting graphic designers’ and art directors’ artwork into digital files. Desktop publishers typically have proficiency with a variety of computer design applications, such as QuarkXpress, Adobe InDesign, and Adobe Photoshop.
Businesses that engage in advertising, design, publishing, and visualization usually employ desktop publishers. With the use of designing software, a DTP operator can also present information efficiently and attractively.
A DTP operator enhances creativity while creating better-quality documents, reduces production costs, prints bespoke documents quickly, and attracts consumers.
Types of DTP Operators
Web Designer: A web designer works the main course of planning, creating, and coding websites. A web designer is responsible for designing a website or web page’s primary interface and layouts. Their main responsibilities include creating user-friendly websites and web pages.
Font Designer: Font designers create, develop and design fonts. They are professionals who have extensive knowledge of graphic design and designing fonts. To meet the needs of a specific website, newspaper, resume, or customer, font designers may develop new typefaces or modify existing ones.
Graphic Designer/ DTP Operator: A candidate is required to be highly educated about Corel Draw, InDesign, and other designing software to become a Graphic Designer (DTP Operator cum Graphic Designer).
In addition to handling manuals, magazines, catalogs, brochures, banners, posters, and product packaging, they work collaboratively on publishing and graphic design tasks. To become a professional DTP Graphic Designer, candidates can enroll in graphic design courses at prestigious colleges or seek online certificates.
Desktop Publisher: Desktop publishers work with publishing software to create a variety of products, such as business cards, books, newsletters, newspapers, and financial reports. Over time, they develop skills in arranging and combining pictures, numbers, charts, and graphics to present the data in its completeness.
DTP Operator Eligibility
Although there is no set educational requirement to work as a DTP Operator, one should, at the very least, have completed their senior year of high school. However, the higher the Operator’s qualifications, the more opportunities he will have to work in reputable government and commercial organizations. The minimum age to work in the organized sector is 18 years old, and the maximum period differs on the organization and ranges from 25 to 40 years old.
How to Become a DTP Operator in India?
A person who wishes to pursue a career as a DTP Operator must have a solid background in software design and primary computer and English skills. Candidates can apply for admission to relevant computer courses that will ease their path to becoming a DTP Operator in India. Online course enrollment is neither entrance-based nor merit-based.
School-level preparation
Students can pursue any diploma or certificate program, online or offline, after completing their 12th class in the Science Stream. During their 10+2 years, candidates must select the relevant subjects and pass their exams with high grades.
How to Become a DTP Operator After the 12th?
Diploma programs and certificates in desktop publishing and design are online. Suppose an individual wants to graduate in order to work as a DTP Operator. In that case, they can earn a degree in a relevant discipline, such as graphic design, web design, multimedia design, etc.
Such programs offer merit-based and entrance-based admission. A minimum aggregate of 50% is required in the 12th standard in any of the streams: Arts/ Commerce/ Science.
Courses to Become a DTP Operator
Desktop Publishing Operator by DGT: The Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship’s Directorate General of Training (DGT), which provides a diverse range of vocational training courses, offers a desktop publishing course. The course lasts a whole year and is divided into two semesters. Students who complete the training course are awarded the National Trade Certificate (NTC), recognized worldwide.
- Aspirants must have passed the 10th and 12th class examinations.
- The candidate’s age must be between 14 to 40 years of age.
BTech Print Technology: The four-year BTech in Print Technology undergraduate program trains students to manage the production, operation, and design of printing presses. The printing process allows one to produce text and images. The annual price levied by various institutions varies and ranges between INR 1 L – 2 LPA or even higher at some universities.
- Admission to the course is based on entrance exams.
- Aspirants must clear the required entrance examination and must have completed their 10+2 with Science stream to apply for admission to the BTech Print and Technology.
Entrance Exams
Students must have to qualify for the necessary entrance exams to apply for admission to courses and pursue a career as a DTP Operator. Some of the state and national-level entrance exams are outlined below.
| JEE MAIN | JEE ADVANCED |
| WBJEE | MHT CET |
| BITSAT |
Skills Require to Become a DTP Operator
| Creativity | Time Management |
| Communication skills | Organizational skills |
| Basic English | Designing software |
| Analytical skills |
Average Annual Salary of DTP Operator
| Government | Private | Experienced | Fresher |
| INR 2.7 LPA | INR 2.6 LPA | 3.6 L – 4 LPA | 2 L – 3 LPA |
Frequently Asked Questions on DTP Operator
Ans: Desktop publishing (DTP) is creating books and booklets on personal computers that are meant to be printed using laser or inkjet printers.
Ans: Although there is no set educational requirement to work as a DTP Operator, one should, at the very least, have completed their senior year of high school.
Ans: A DTP operator is vital for converting graphic designers’ and art directors’ artwork into digital files.