 Introduction
Here
at Quality Impressions we have put together this design guide to assist
you in making many important decisions regarding your print jobs.
Effectively planning your project can reduce the time and money you
will spend by the time it's all done. In this book you will find information
about the different stages in the printing process which your project
may go through. Each of the sections deals with common questions and
gives you the designer, good advice that will help your print job
run smoothly from proof to press.
Writing for Job Specifications
Have you written out the specifications for your job? Take some
time to review your order carefully, making sure all of your needsare
clearly communicated. Be sure to include any important details on
the specification list, such as a specific paper you have in mind,
or any colors which require special inks. Requests like these may
add to the cost or turnaround time of your job. Please attach written
specs to your job where they can be easily seen and give them to your
account executive. Be sure the specifications include the following
information:
· Quantity
· Paper selection
· Colors
· Special graphics
· Imaging requirements
· Position & trims for photos,
bleeds, embossing, etc.
· Insert and Tab locations
· Size (flat and folded)
· Binding
· Type of Proof(s) required
· Areas to die cut
· Position & size of foil areas
· Delivery date and time
 To
avoid communication errors, it is a good idea to go over your specifications
with your account executive, either in person or on the telephone.
Make sure to note any specifications that may have changed since the
original price estimate and schedule the printer gave you. Remember
also to provide us with a comprehensive dummy that includes folding
and back-up. This is valuable for the press, bindery and finishing
operations as it helps us to see the correct back-up and folding of
your job. When writing specifications for the purpose of getting an
estimate, keep in mind that each side of a sheet of paper is considered
one page. Always remember this simple concept when requesting a quote.
A common misunderstanding between the client and the printer is how
a book is quoted. Here is an example of this type of quoting: A book
is not a 10-page, 4-color process 11 x 17 sheet folded to 8.5 x 11
with stitching and trimming. It is a 40-page self-cover 4/4 saddle-stitched
book. Making sure that everyone involved understands the specifications
of the job can save everybody time, money and the frustration of having
to re-quote the job. Other items to include are flat size, and if
necessary, folded size. Items such as pocket folders or key card holders
should be written as a flat size and include a drawing or dummy to
show where to glue the piece(s) together. When writing up your specs
be sure to note if ink colors on both sides of a project are the same.
A two color two-sided job with common colors on both sides is not
priced the same as a job with different colors on each side. Also,
a closed gate fold is much more expensive than a letter fold. The
bottom line in writing up job specifications is to always include
as much information as possible so that your quote can be as accurate
as possible.
next: Designing |
|
|
 |
