My Mac is the tool I use for the design of publications and displays. While one is more graphics intensive than the other, the production steps are basically the same. A publication requires cover design, page layout, typesetting, photos and or illustrations.
I use the 'PhotoShop' program to scan artwork and photos, to retouch, enhance, manipulate and add special effects. Then there is the 'Illustrator' program which is not only used to draw but to create graphs and designer type (by way of manipulating fonts with filters, distortion, skewing, curving and adding drop shadows).
To create the look of the page I use a publishing program such as 'QuarkXpress' to integrate all the elements. Importing the text from the word program and placing it in columns on the page. Strategically placing artwork, logos, creative titles and graphics from the drawing program as needed. This program also accepts all photos from greyscale to full color with the capability of making accurate color separations for offset printing".