Three Key Planning Questions

Once a project has hit your desk, what’s your initial reaction? Get right to work, of course! When it comes to the design and production of print projects, however, that can be a costly mistake. You need a solid plan to get you from design to finished product as quickly and efficiently as possible. To get you started, here are three key questions to ask yourself before you begin:

#1 - What is the end use of the piece?
Before you can make decisions regarding any other aspect of a project, you should be clear about how the finished product will be used. If the project is a direct mail brochure for an upscale retailer, for example, pay close attention to paper selection and final size. Although a thicker stock and larger finished size may generate a more impressive appearance, both of those factors may substantially increase postage costs.

#2 - What are your budget and schedule requirements?
Once you’ve hashed out how the piece will be used, determine your production budget for the project. Make sure you’ve factored in all production processes, including creative and file preparation; prepress, printing and postpress production; shipping; mailing and postage. Once we know your budget parameters, we can then offer appropriate format, paper, color and finishing choices.

In addition to creating a budget, you must also determine when you need the project to be delivered. Keep in mind that scheduling requirements may open up or close off some production options. If your project requires a rapid turnaround, for example, your stock selection may be limited to what is readily available.

#3 - Who will handle what?
The print production process runs its smoothest when everyone involved is aware of exactly who is handling each detail. Determine who on your team will be responsible for viewing and approving copy and artwork, signing off on revisions and final proofs and conducting press checks if necessary. By working out these details in advance, you stand a much better chance of making sure your project stays on schedule and within budget.

Involve Springfield Printing!
As you can see, there are a host of details to consider and decisions to be made regarding a print project - all before ink is even laid to paper! To be sure the entire process goes as smoothly as possible, involve Springfield Printing early in the project planning stage. That gives us the opportunity to take care of as many small details as possible, such as creating pre-production dummies, proofreading your files and coordinating with postpress and mailing services providers. With Springfield Printing as your “turn-key” print production partner, you can rest easy knowing your projects will be produced properly every time.