Frequently asked questions...

Can you take the layout I prepared in WORD and just fix it up for print?
Unfortunately, no. WORD is an excellent program for office work, but it is not suitable for offset printing. We can use your layout for reference, but we will be generating a new digital file.

Why can't you use the Clip Art I used in my WORD document?
The collection of graphics provided with MS Office products is perfect for inserting into documents created in those products. But they are too low in resolution for offset printing.

Why can't I use an image from someone else's web site?
It is illegal! Use of images without the owners permission is a copyright infringement and can lead to lawsuits and substantial fines.

Can I use the same images form my web site on my new brochure?
Yes and no...Consitency in branding is always a good idea, and naturally one way to achieve that is to use the same or similar images in all of your marketing materials. However, images posted to the internet are low resolution, usually 72dpi. this makes it so that they load faster for internet viewing. Images for printing must be at least 300dpi at the size at which they will be used. If you have the original image, and it has been shot at t high enough resolution, then it can be used. If the image was scanned and you have the original hard copy, then a new High Res scan is all that you need to use the same image.

If I'm paying a designer for something original, why should I provide them with samples of things I like? Not everyone is good at verbally describing an idea. having a visual sample of something you like, or even a style that you dislike can help a designer to understand your tastes and style preferences without a lot of trial and error. As most projects bill on an hourly basis, it is to your benefit to provide the designer with as much information up front as possible. Trust me...your designer wants to do something new, creative and original for you...they will not copy an idea verbatim. That is not only boring for them...it is illegal!

I am switching to a new design firm and I want to take my files from my old firm. I Already paid for them...aren't the files mine? No, you paid a design firm to generate a printed or internet piece for you. The tools and files used to get that end result are not part of what you paid for. You also may not have a new firm copy the design that your old firm set up. The rights to that "design" are owned by the designer who originally created it, (in the case of an agency with larger design teams, the rights belong to the agency) unless another arrangement has been agreed upon and is documented in writing at the onset of the project.

However, many designers are not looking to burn bridges, and would rather keep even their departing clients happy by providing the files with the hope of future projects. It never hurts to ask, but be prepared to pay some sort of retrieval and relinquish fee.

Can a design firm include work for my company in it's portfolio without my permission?
Yes, This is the design firms sales brochure. However most designers make it very clear that that is the case within their contracts. If there is concern about competitors stealing ideas or top secret ideas getting out, we suggest you address this by adding a confidentiality clause to the contract you sign. Clearly state which specific items must remain secret.

When updates are made to my web site they are sometimes not reflected right away in my browser. Why is that? Refresh your browser window and/or clear your caches. 99% of the time updates are not seen because a browser is remembering what it pulled up the last time.

My designer don't listen to me. I tell them exactly what I want and they say it won't work. Why?
Could be one of two reasons...
#1 your designer is a stubborn and out to make your life difficult.
#2. Your designer strongly feels that the suggestions you are making will not enhance the project or meet your marketing objective.

You are paying good money to a person who has not only gone through years of design training, but was also born with a creative talent that lead them to their career. You are paying for that talent and expertise. Let them use it to create something wonderful for you.

However, when all is said and done, you are the client and you must be happy. Having an open line of communication with your designer will lead to a creative design project that will make you both happy and meet your marketing goals.

My designer sometimes charges me rush fees. Why?
It is common for designers and agencies to charge rush fees when a client requests that work be turned around in less than 48 hours or the work must be done over a weekend or holiday. Rush fees can range anywhere from 150% to 200% of the usual hourly fee.

My designer likes to be included in the printer selection...we usually leave that up to purchasing to determine the best cost. Are we wrong?
You are not wrong...cost is always a factor. But, it should not be the deciding factor in selecting a print or any other creative vendor. Your designer will be able to direct you to creative vendors that will best accommodate the specifications of a project while still remaining conscientious of your deadline and budget.