Resource Center
Digital File Tips
Do's & Don'ts of Digital Imaging >
This PDF document contains helpful hints on preparing documents for different output environments, like digital black and white, digital color and offset color.
File Prep Tutorial >
This step-by-step online tutorial walks you through the basics of preparing files for output at a service provider. It includes instructions on locating fonts, including graphics, and how to use the built-in collection tools for most commercial desktop publishing software.
FAQ
> Can you match any color?
> Do you have a price sheet?
> Do you offer any design assistance?
> How can I get a estimate on my project?
> How long will it take to compete my job?
> What quantity should I order to get the lowest price?
> What kinds of digital files can you accept?
> How should I prepare digital files for you?
Q. Can you match any color?
A. We will do our best to match the color you need. If you are using a PMS Pantone spot color, we can absolutely match it. However, some process colors are more difficult to match than others, especially certain shades of reds and blues. Some things to consider that affect color match include screen calibration, substrate (what it is printed on), output device (where it is being printed from), the light source, and, believe it or not, the age and gender of the person viewing the document.
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Q. Do you have a price sheet?
A. On standard work, yes, we can approximate what a project will cost. However, most of our jobs are customized projects requiring specific methods of production. In these instances, we will provide an individualized estimate based on your particular specifications.
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Q. Do you offer any design assistance?
A. If you can picture it, we can help you design it. Our graphic designers can create anything from a simple direct mail piece or newsletter to a complete product brochure. We will work with you during every phase of the project, helping you to select paper stock, ink colors, graphics and fonts to create a piece that will make you stand out from your competition.
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Q. How can I get a estimate on my project?
A. The best way for you to get a quick, accurate quote from us is to use our online estimate service. When we receive your request, we will review your specifications and either e-mail or phone you with a quote. Or, if you prefer, you can call us at 515-244-1414. We can work with you over the phone, you can stop in to our location, or one of our representatives can come to see you.
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Q. How long will it take to compete my job?
A. It really depends on the amount of work involved. Once we receive the order, discuss the specifics (such as whether or not design work is involved), and you approve the artwork, we can give you a more accurate completion date. If a job comes on a disk, we will review it, preflight it and make it print-ready, and then contact you with an estimated completion date. If we are missing any element of a file, we will contact you or someone at your organization as soon as possible to get the missing information, so please be sure to provide accurate contact information with your incoming order.
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Q. What quantity should I order to get the lowest price?
A. We recommend that you simply order what you really need. As much as 30 percent of what you have printed can become obsolete before you use it, so what may appear to be cost effective in the short run may prove to be costly in the long run. That is why it is important to consult with us so we can learn more about you, your product, its life cycle, and the end user, to recommend more accurate and effective solutions.
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Q. What kinds of digital files can you accept?
A. We work with a variety of software programs, whether you use a PC or a Macintosh. Our prepress department supports most recognized graphic software programs, like InDesign, QuarkXpress, Illustrator, PhotoShop, Microsoft Office, Publisher and others. If you are working with software that you do not see listed here, please give us a call. There is a good chance we will still be able to use your artwork.
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Q. How should I prepare digital files for you?
A. We have both PC and MAC capabilities, so there is no need for you to convert your file in order to get it produced. Always provide a hard copy of your project to ensure that it comes out exactly the way you envision. Also, find out how your file should be saved. The most common file formats that we use for graphics are JPEG, EPS, and TIFF, although others can be used. To have a full-color image printed, make sure you put it in the correct color format on your disk, as there is a difference between RGB and CMYK color printing processes. If you are not sure how to do that, bring your disk into our location and ask one of our graphic designers to help you format your file correctly. Check to make sure any links in your project are also included on your disk along with the printer and screen fonts you used in your piece, unless you want our graphic designers to re-design your project. If you have any more questions about what to include with your file, do not hesitate to ask.
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