That is the first thing I would do. Land should always be graded away from the house at a minimum of 2%, or 1/4" per foot. For example, if the level of the land at your garage is at "x", the level 4 feet out should be 1" lower than "x". In addition, the distance to be graded outward should be a minimum of five feet.
The ground in that area should have some coverage. Either mulch, lawn or plantings is advantageous to help absorb the water. Please visit my page on Lawn Drainage Susan
