Print Project Process

Knowing how much a project will cost is not an exact science. There are many variables to consider when submitting your job. Communication with Printing Services and OUR is crucial to receiving the most accurate estimate possible. Remember, it is an estimate, and we will do our best to stay within that estimated price with your help.

Be careful not to give vague dates on when you need your projects. ASAP is not a deadline - it means "as soon as possible," and can be interpreted differently in different circumstances.

Consideration of the complexity of your print order will affect the deadline or delivery date, especially if there are added services such as embossing or diecutting.

Working with the Printing Service customer service specialist and OUR, communicating your needs will eliminate most surprises. Make sure whoever is responsible for checking the proofs or editing knows the deadline too.

If printing and OUR deadlines for returning information are missed, your ultimate deadline could be in jeopardy. We will try to keep it on schedule, and sometimes we can make up the difference in other areas depending on the circumstances.

Proofing should be done CAREFULLY! It is a joint responsibility, and we strive to help you check all content and elements of your printed project.

When reviewing your proof, please DO NOT use pencil or black ink when marking corrections. If we can't see your marks, you run the risk we'll miss them. Please use a RED pen or highlight the area needing correction with a highlighter.

If complex revisions are required, they can be discussed with someone in the prepress area as well as the with the customer service representative  with whom you are working.

Proof for the following:

• Size: most proofs are created to actual size - unless otherwise notated on the proof slip.
• Font usage: files converted from Word and opened on another computer are prone to font problems.
• Color: are color breaks and photos correct?
• Layout: folds, back-up, page numbering.
• Corrections: from previous proof or instructions. Mark corrections on proof provided by Printing Services. It is not necessary or recommended to send new files for minor corrections. Sending new files requires that we start over each time and adds more cost to your project.

Proof Types and Descriptions:

• Laser Proof: These proofs are used when printing on our offset press. These proofs are to check for correct fonts and layout and allow for alterations to be made. A laser proof may be in black and white or color depending on the job.
• Digital Proof: Proofs from our digital press are "AS IS". The color and the paper of these proofs are EXACTLY what will be delivered to you. If you are not satisfied with the color or paper choice at the time of proofing, we can make changes at this time and run a new proof (at a minimal charge).
• Soft Proof: We can email proofs and corrections to proofs that do not need to be checked for color or pagination to help speed up the process.
• Sign Off: Once proofing has been made and corrections are completed, then you "sign off" on the proof slip ticket indicating that it's ready to go to the next stage or to press. By signing the proof slip, you are accepting responsibility that the job is correct.

Printing Services can deliver your final piece directly to your office or to the on-campus mail office for mailing, or you can pick it up at the Print Shop upon request.