Whether it’s on the runway or in the mailbox, everyone wants to get their best “look.” For print jobs, this means excellent color and resolution, terrific design, and details that match up the way they should. But there are other factors in putting your best foot forward that are often overlooked. Beyond the basic design, here are seven other best practices for creating the best impression.
1. Hire a proofreader. Too many companies have
spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on a print job, only to discover too
late that there was a typo in the headline or the body text. Don’t rely on
non-specialists who are “good at grammar.” Hire a professional.
2. Get more eyes. Whether it’s the marketing message, the creative, or
the account details, having a second (or third) set of eyes on the project can
prevent costly mistakes later. This adds time, but it creates an important
safety net.
3. Check the specs! Before submitting the job, double-check
to make sure the specs are correct. A slip of the pen, an errant keystroke, or
a last-minute change—it can all add up to costly mistakes later.
4. Create mock-ups. Print a mock-up so you can
see how the document will look once assembled. Especially with folded and
dimensional pieces, the layout might look good on the screen. Still, without a physical
mock-up, you could end up with the back cover on the inside fold or the panels
on your pop-up mailer ordered incorrectly.
5. Proof after every change. Even when you’re making a
small change, don’t pass on a proof. Even a single letter can change the
spacing on a page. Something as simple as modifying an "i” to a "j”
can impact the flow. Proof it every time!
6. Create a checklist. We’re all human. We all
have forgetful moments. Even if you’re a 20-year veteran of the job, create a
checklist and use it.
7. Develop a long-term
relationship with your print partner. Communicate with us early and often. The more we
get to know you, your projects, and your marketing goals, the easier it will be
for us to make sure your projects stay on track.
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