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Planning Outline
A successful and cost-effective project requires careful planning that takes into account all aspects of the finished product. Here is an outline of Paper Rep’s suggested planning process for developing a project.
- Concept Development – The first step in creating a project is identifying its communications goal or challenge. The first tasks should be identifying what a project is attempting to accomplish and how should it be addressed. Other considerations should include audience, projected image, budget, as well as how the piece will fit in with other pieces or campaigns.
- Pre-Design Planning – After the goals and specifications of a project are outlined, the designer can begin planning the job. The designer will create an estimate on delivery date and cost based on the format, size, colors and images of the project. Sometimes rough sketches can be made to help visualize the piece. At this point it is important to set a delivery date, generate a budget and get a quote.
- Design – During this stage, several things will happen simultaneously. The designer will create concepts for the project format and architecture including how a project will be bound. Before proceeding, preliminary design approval should be obtained. Distribution of the project should also be planned, including the quantity, packaging and dispersion method. Copy will be developed and should be written to work with the project typography.
- Vendor Selection – Selecting the right printer is critical to the success of a project and should occur as early as possible. Issues that should be considered include a printer’s reputation, experience, knowledge, flexibility and location. After design is completed, a Request for Quotation (RFQ) should be sent to at least three printers. As soon as a printer is chosen, a production schedule can be developed.
- Pre-press planning – As the final planning step, all involved parties should meet for a production meeting. Imposition, paper, ink and colors, images, varnish and finishing should all be discussed.
- Final Design – Before final client approval can be given, the piece should be proofread and type should be cleaned up. If the job has changed since the quote was submitted, a new estimate should be made
- Proofing – Proofing all aspects of the job is one of the most important steps of the production process. Most jobs have at least one change after the job has finished the pre-press process. When making changes, always ensure they are client approved and ask for the cost before authorizing a change.
- On Press – Once a job is on press, the designer, project manager and client should conduct a press check to review the job. The job should take into account any changes made during the proofing process.
- Finishing and Binding – If a project has been designed with graphics or finishing techniques, it may require some work from a specialty printer. As the job is being printed, samples should be examined to ensure uniformity of quality. In the event a problem occurs, its severity should be evaluated before being promptly reported.
- Distribution – A project is not complete until it arrives at its final destination. To ensure proper delivery, shipping arrangements should be reconfirmed at project completion and receiving parties should be notified of the project’s arrival.
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