Bartleby Press

Bartleby Press

Monday, May 2, 2011

A simple guide of what to look for before you hire a printing firm


Are all Print Services the Same?

Many factors to consider above pricing is the print management service they offer. Why? Because this is all about quality and will ensure that your project goes as planned. Not all printing services check the quality status of your project from the moment they received your order, through the printing process and up to delivery of your finished product. A mass volume printing service not unlike some of the cut-rate web sources have this dedication in providing the best service to your clients. That is why you should always look for a local printing service one that has a quality control process.

Contacting a Print firm
You and the representative of the printing company will discuss your project in detail. Having a spec sheet of the materials needed to complete your project including the deadline is ideal to get an apples-to-apples quote and your exact expectations of the finished product.

Getting the Quote
The quote should be as detailed as possible to get an accurate cost to get your project completed. Every material and process to be used should be indicated.

Awarding the Job
Most firms will ask for money down with a new client and that amount varies with firms. Standard is 50%. Once you accept the quote and sign it is a binding form between you and the printing company.

Providing the Artwork
Checking your files is a critical part of any print management service. The printer should thoroughly check your art files and make sure that the file is of high quality for reproduction in the printing process. They should call and give you a detailed report and perhaps even offer you suggestions and services to ensure the quality of your project.

The Proof
The printer proceeds with pre-flight of your project and will send a high-resolution proof either a physical or in PDF. The latter is a good option especially if you need to view it quickly and you are currently out of your office or home. If color is critical a hard proof is better.

Print Production
This is the actual printing process and where the highest form of quality checking will be done and matched against your proof.  Folding, scoring and all finishing work is completed.

The Delivery
When the finished product is ready the printing service will pack it properly and or store it in a safe place for future delivery.

A good rule is to ask the printing firm about their quality checking procedures. Hiring a local printer with a quality control process is best and avoids the pitfalls of an online printing.

About the Author: Thomas Miner is the owner of Bartleby Press, a quality printing service.

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