Who is Rob J. Watson?

Bio: A designer in your pocket

I’m a designer with over 39 years of experience working across tech, retail, and financial services—bringing structure, clarity, and polish to visual communications. I specialize in document layout, interactive forms, and content adaptation for both print and digital use. My work blends analytical precision with creative thoughtfulness, shaped by a background in publication design, technical illustration, and image production.

I refine and build on existing materials to make them clearer, more consistent, and easier to use—whether that means updating templates, developing visual tools, or converting legacy content for new formats.

I thrive in structured, goal-oriented environments where results matter and communication needs to be both effective and on-brand.

I don't redefine your brand or message — I help you bring it into focus. 

Core

A practical blend of design, layout, and visual problem-solving—focused on helping clients communicate more clearly with the tools and content they already have. 

• Document & Layout Design
  Branded materials, multi-page reports, and content systems for print and digital use

• Interactive PDFs & Forms
  Design, layout, and conversion of clear, fillable forms and functional documents

• Visual Explanation & Illustration
  Technical diagrams, process visuals, and supporting graphics that clarify information

• Image Editing & Optimization
  Cleanup, retouching, compositing, and formatting for print or screen-ready use

Supportive

I help clients transition existing materials into more usable, flexible formats—so their content stays relevant, accessible, and on-brand. 

• Content Migration & Format Updates
  Adapting existing content for digital platforms, including print-to-PDF conversions and screen-friendly layouts

• Cross-Medium Adaptation
  Reworking documents and assets to function smoothly across print, web, and PDF—without losing clarity or brand alignment

• Legacy File & Format Conversion
  Updating outdated or unsupported files into usable, modern formats while preserving visual integrity

Tools & Platforms

Fluent in both Mac and Windows environments, with deep experience in:

• Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Acrobat)

• Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel—design integration and formatting)

• PDF & Form Tools (Acrobat Pro, form fields, interactivity, accessibility tagging)

Comfortable adapting to client-preferred platforms and file workflows.

How I Work

• Clear, Practical Design
  I focus on effective communication—helping you present information clearly, professionally, and without added complexity. Whether it’s organizing content, promoting a product, or improving readability, I bring structure and clarity to every project.

• Strong Fundamentals
  Decades of experience in layout, typography, illustration, and production means your materials are grounded in clean, functional design that puts the message first.

• Efficient, Modern Workflows
  I use current tools and streamlined methods to reduce friction and deliver consistent, high-quality results—ready for both print and digital use.

• Flexible, Future-Friendly Deliverables
  Whenever possible, files are provided in accessible, editable formats that support reuse, updates, and long-term value.

• Reliable File Handling
  Project files are stored securely, with redundant backups and organized archiving to protect your work and make future updates simple.

Education

B.S., Industrial Design

San José State University

Foundation in visual systems, ideation, problem solving, human factors, communication, and design thinking—skills I’ve built on through four decades of hands-on experience in design, production, and illustration. 

Professional Experience

• Financial Services — 18 years
  Marketing design and production for a large financial institution, including layout, print collateral, digital graphics, and original photography. Emphasis on clarity, consistency, and regulatory accuracy.

• Software & Tech — 9 years
  Marketing and web graphics for a software development company. Supported product launches, interface visuals, and online communication materials in a fast-paced environment.

• Catalog & Retail — 8+ years
  Design and production for a national mail-order catalog company. Worked on large-scale layout, seasonal marketing, and print production coordination.

• E-Commerce & Family Business — 30+ years (concurrent)
  Ongoing creative and operational support for a family-run business selling products wholesale, retail, and on Amazon. Responsibilities include product design, marketing, imports, photography, packaging, and digital asset development.

Industries & Organizations

Hardware & Product Manufacturing

• Layout design for technical documentation (install guides, spec sheets)

• Product labeling, imprinting, and packaging graphics

• Mockups, illustrations, and exploded-view diagrams

• Visual assets for wholesale and ecommerce listings (including Amazon)

Customer-Facing Business Support

• Custom forms, branded templates, and visual aids

• Content adaptation for both print and digital use

Digital Deliverables

All work is delivered in digital formats appropriate to the project’s purpose—whether for web, screen sharing, desktop printing, or professional press output. When possible, I provide editable, platform-agnostic files to support reuse and long-term value.

I do not produce or ship physical items, but I’m happy to assist with file preparation for third-party printing. If your project involves a print vendor, I can help coordinate technical specs and production requirements. Vendor selection, billing, and order management remain the client’s responsibility unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Clients are responsible for final approval of press-ready files before submission to vendors.

Rates

Rates are in line with U.S. professional standards for senior-level design support and consulting—typically ranging from $50 to $150 per hour, depending on the nature of the work. Discounted rates are available for monthly retainers or larger projects, flat per project rates also available.

Confidentiality

Confidential projects are welcome. I’m experienced in working with proprietary materials, internal communications, and pre-release content. NDAs can be signed on request.