Preparations During the Design Process

It's exciting to get started on a new project, and there's no such thing as too much time to do a job. However, before you wade right into the project, take a breath. Take two.

Lean back and consider the end product. Try to isolate the most challenging aspects of manufacturing the printed piece. Does it involve spot colors or varnishes? Does it require special finishing treatments such as die cutting or embossing? Is it an odd size? Does it involve multiple, collateral pieces that have to fit together, such as a pocket folder with inserted literature and a business reply card?

As you sketch out the prospects in your mind, start having conversations with the printer. In the very earliest stage of the job, you may not always have the luxury of knowing who the print service provider will be. But as soon as you do, start paving the way for a successful print project by opening up the lines of communication. Their staff can help you build your project successfully, and you will have prepared them for the incoming job. In printing, as in any kind of manufacturing, surprise is rarely a good word.