Book excerpt: The Design Manual by David Whitbread is an indispensable and comprehensive reference for traditional and digital publishing. From beginners to professional graphic designers, desktop publishers and graphic design students, The Design Manual provides essential information on conceptual approaches, planning and project development techniques for print, web and multimedia production. Design tasks are divided into sections on publication, corporate identity, on-screen and advertising design. There is discussion of specific skills such as branding and logo design; stationery, catalogue, annual report and newsletter production; websites; storyboarding and animation techniques; and more. The production section discusses layout and typography for print and screen, colour and colour systems, printing and finishing processes. With numerous checklists and practical tips throughout the text, The Design Manual has become a standard reference for anyone involved in or interested in design.