Our Print Design Process

  1. Design brief: Through the initial brief from the client and further questions and discussion, information and design criteria are established. These criteria include the needs, objectives, and problems to be solved. For more information on how to best brief a designer for print work, please reference the Atom Graphics’ print design brief guidelines.

  2. Design quote: An estimate and list of what is included is agreed upon. This estimate is established with scope for reference (for example, an established number of rounds of revisions).

  3. Print quote: If required, and if there are enough parameters at this point, print quotes are obtained by Atom Graphics. Often, several options are quoted, based on different specifications and quantities.

  4. Concept development: A presentation of an idea (or ideas) that the Atom Graphics’ team feels meet the criteria. On larger print projects, this is typically the front cover and one inside spread. On smaller projects, such as a brochure, this could entail a complete layout.

  5. Concept adjustments: Based on client feedback and discussion.

  6. Design implementation: Decisions are made concerning commissioned illustrations, photography, copywriting, and all other elements. The entire layout is completed.

  7. Design adjustments: Based on client feedback and discussion. At the end of this step, the client does a careful final review of the written content for errors and gives final sign-off on the project.

  8. Production: Following design adjustments, the approved file is sent to the printer. Atom Graphics manages the final precision, quality and colour proofing. Printed items are delivered to the client.

A few simple process recommendations that we have found help projects run smoothly and stay on budget:

  1. Have a dedicated point of contact at your organization for the project.

  2. Avoid the need for consensus among a large group of people. One person, or a few key people, should have final decision-making power regarding the design.

  3. Consider the design’s effectiveness in relation to the agreed criteria, not personal taste.

  4. Typically two rounds of text changes are included in the estimate. To keep costs down, please compile all requested changes into one email or document. Wait for feedback from all parties (proofreader, writer, project manager, etc.) before sending to Atom Graphics.
Atom Graphics