International Journal of Sub-Saharan African Research (IJSSAR)

Background: The use of graphics is fundamental to modern modes of communication. This reflects the need for mastery of graphic communication. Good enough, various user-friendly graphics applications and devices, such as Canva, are available on online platforms. Others include Adobe Creative Cloud, FontShop, Filestage, Adobe Edge Inspect, Computers and high-end smartphones. Despite their potential to enhance graphic contents, the level of awareness and adoption among communicators remains known. Objective: This study investigated the level of awareness and adoption of current trends in graphic communication such as Canva among select graphic designers in Abuja Metropolis of Nigeria. Method: The research employs thematic analysis within the qualitative methodology. It involves a population size of about10000 graphic designers within Abuja metropolis particularly in the old UTC, Area 10, Abuja known as a hub for design artists in Abuja. A sample size of 10 experts was purposively selected for in-depth interview. This sample size is justified in qualitative research because they were regarded as opinion leaders in the community and their views can largely represent the views of the community. Result: Findings show that there was low level of awareness and low level of adoption of new technologies in graphic communication among graphic designers in Abuja Metropolis of Nigeria. Conclusion: Technology is fast changing the society. This truism is also relevant in the field of graphic communication. Awareness and adoption of various user-friendly purpose-built graphic applications in the online store is low despite that such applications such as Canva are present in the online store. The communicator cannot afford to stay aloof from technologies especially those that can enhance communication. Unique contribution to knowledge: This research has contributed to the existing body of knowledge on the level of awareness and adoption new technology such as Canva in graphic communication. Key recommendation: It is necessary for communicators to adopt new technologies in graphic communication to ensure that their graphics represent the exact imagery the communicator would like to portray to the audience. User-friendly graphic communication applications like Canva can be a good place for a beginner.