By contacting any member of our staff and arranging an informal meeting. Bring to this meeting:
Written text (approved and final if at all possible) on paper and in digital format (any word processing program for Windows or Mac is fine); many clients send copy as attachments to email.
Information about your intended audience.
Deadline and budget constraints.
Tentative quantities. A range (e.g., 3,000, 5,000, 10,000) is fine at this point.
Intended method of distribution. Will it go in an envelope, be a self-mailer, contain business reply cards, etc.?
An open mind.
How long does it take to produce a publication?
On average, at least a month. Small ads or programs for events sometimes can be out the door in a few days, but projects scheduled in advance always have priority. Books that require writing and photography can take six months or longer. Let us know when you must have the job in hand. We'll tell you whether or not we can deliver.
How much will it cost?
Nothing for creative work. We charge for production at a low, university-set hourly rate. The printers who bid on our projects provide a combination of top quality and competitive pricing. We will give you an accurate estimate for your project once specifications (quantity, size, number of pages, etc.) have been established. We don't mark up suppliers' invoices.
What factors contribute to a successful publication?
Time, resources, and your willingness to make decisions without deferring to higher authority. ("I like the layout, but let me run it past the Committee.")
What factors contribute to a disappointing publication?
Not enough time, insufficient budget, too many cooks, enormous changes at the last minute.
Should I take my own photos before contacting you?
No. Let our designers advise before photography begins.
Do you develop logos for individual departments or programs?
No. We believe the use of logos for individual schools and departments weakens the University's overall identity.
Do you design and produce signs?
No, but we can recommend sources.
Do you take care of addressing and mailing?
We can recommend mailing houses and have your publication delivered directly to the facility of your choice. You must provide mailing labels or address lists for inkjetting.
Can you plan an ad campaign?
We can provide ad concepts, copy, and design, but we do not offer marketing research or placement.
What's the difference between dealing with you and dealing with an outside agency?
Outside agencies charge for creative work. We don't.
Outside agencies mark up the printer's invoice and pass it along to you. We don't.
Outside agencies will take you to lunch. We won't.
