The term graphic design was coined by William Dwiggins in 1922. However, graphic design-like activities span human existence: from the caves of Lascaux, to Rome’s Trajan’s Column to the illuminated manuscripts of the Middle Ages, to the neon lights of Ginza, Tokyo. The Egyptians developed communication by hieroglyphics that used picture symbols dating as far back as 136 B.C. found on the Rosetta Stone. The Egyptians also invented papyrus, paper made from reeds found along the Nile, on which they transcribed advertisements more common among their people at the time. During the “Dark Ages”, from 500 AD to 1450 AD, monks created elaborate, illustrated manuscripts.
So it would seem design has shaped civilisations for thousands of years and that’s why it’s important to invest in good graphic design so that it shapes your company or organisation’s present and future in a positive way.