|
While the aesthetics of graphic design are too complex
to discuss here, it is important to understand that design can have a
greater impact on the final cost of a print project than any other
aspect. The best graphic designers consider a number of factors when
calculating how a design might affect cost.
Here are some quick examples of design decisions that may make or break the budget:
Using the Wrong
Software
Ensure the artwork you plan to submit is in a format
supported by folders.com. Due to the additional time and extensive work
involved in re-creating artwork that was created using the wrong
software program, we typically charge extra to convert your document from a less
established format. The four applications that are most universally accepted are: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign and QuarkXpress.
You can use any combination of these applications. Adobe
InDesign and QuarkXpress are primarily used for page layout, Adobe
Illustrator for graphic illustration, and Adobe PhotoShop is used
primarily for photo design. There are other applications that
might be appropriate for specific types of projects, but in general
these four are the best at what they do. It must be noted that Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator are not layout programs. Using either of these programs to do your layout WILL cause you to incur additional costs.
Cost impact: If you already own Adobe InDesign or QuarkXpress,
using it as your layout program will minimize conversion costs. If you
don't, paying more to purchase the industry standard may save you money
in the long run. Some reports conclude that 78% of files sent to
printers are not ready to go to press without some kind of fix required.
Ink
Simply put, the more inks used on a project the greater the expense.
PMS matches, custom matched inks, specialty finishes or novelty inks
also increase project cost.
Cost impact: Every ink added to a job
means an additional color separation is made, an additional printing
screen or plate utilized and an additional wash-up charge is incurred.
Not all printing projects require multiple colors. Naturally, a
one-color folder would be the least expensive solution. This requires
one screen or plate, one setup, and no tight registration. Printing
doesn't get any easier than this. Alternatively, a
two-color print job might jave a midrange cost. This requires two printing
screens or plates, two setups, either loose or tight registration
depending on the artwork, and an extra wash-up. Each additional color
means an additonal screen or plate is made and sometimes registration
becomes more difficult.
Paper
It sounds obvious but the more expensive the paper stock you choose the
more cost you will incur. With that in mind, there are times to choose
an expensive stock and times to go with a less expensive stock. In one
case the high-end stock may be worth the cost, in another you may opt
for a less expensive stock. folders.com's "stock" or "house" paper, paper
stock maintained in house by the printer because of high customer
demand for specific colors, weights, finishes, etc., are typically the
best value and quality.
Cost impact: Paper weights and sizes,
recycled papers, special order papers, unusual finishes, special
textures, etc. directly affect paper cost. Material costs may be
different between different colors—even when all other specs.
such as brand, weight, finish, etc. are the same.
Folder Contents
Another thing to consider when deciding upon a finished size for your
folder is what you intend to place inside it. Are the items oddly
shaped, heavy or intended for long term use? Do they require
"sectioning" so several items have their own pocket or space? The
answers to these questions help determine what product style is best to
display the contents of your presentation. For example: plastic folders
are ideal for long term use or when durability is a concern. "Box"
pockets and a double-scored spine are a better fit when holding thick
stacks of documents. Over stressing standard pockets and single-score
spines with with too much content causes folders to tear quickly. An
over stuffed folder with its "stuffing" spilling out looks very
unprofessional and leaves a negative impression.
Cost impact: If you have a project that
requires an unusual finished size, let folders.com determine what
product styles best suit your presentation needs with regard to size,
weight, and quantity of materials to be placed in your folder. |
