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Printing, to say the least, is a very complex and time consuming process. If not done properly, clients can lose trust and satisfaction within their print partner over time. That is why printing and manufacturing businesses take the Pre-Press stages seriously.
What is Pre-Press?
Pre-Press is the final review in making sure that the art files and documents being sent to the printer looks and functions as it is intended. Some may think this is an easy feat. But realistically, many marketers and graphic designers that do not work in print-service industry, can not produce the proper files, colors and layouts for art work to be printed. Which is why there are four crucial stages to the Pre-Press phase.
Stage 1: Pre-Flight
During the Pre-Flight stage, the files are checked to make sure all necessary elements have been provided to the Graphic Designers at the Printing Company. The elements that are checked during this stage are…
Fonts
Image resolution and formatting
Margins, crop marks and bleed
Appropriate PMS/CMYK Colors
Realistically, the Pre-Flight stage is to make sure no stone was left unturned. Take into consideration that this stage is not meant for correcting mistakes with any of the art work. That should be handled prior to Pre-Flight file submission.
Stage 2: Proofing
Once the first stage is complete, the second stage of the process begins known as Proofing. Proofs are created once all the elements in the files have been approved. A “Proof” is a near-identical representation of how the final print will look like when it has been brought into production. Proof files are exported as a pdf, so the client can easily receive and approve the proof when needed.
The main purpose of the “proofing” stage is to ensure that the client and the commercial printer are satisfied with the proposed outcome.
Stage 3: Printing Plates
Depending on the type of printing that is going to take place, Printing plates may or may not need to be produced. If the project is going to be printed through a digital printer, then the pre-press stages are complete. This is because no printing plates are used in digital printing. However, if the process involves an offset lithography printer, then printing plated will need to be produced. The printing plates are made unique for each project. They are required to transfer or “offset” the artwork to the desired substrate. To get a better in-depth understanding of Offset Lithography Printing, click here.
Getting Print marketing materials has never been easier when you choose to partner with Omega High Impact Print Solutions. Contact us today to learn more about our printing solutions for all types of businesses.
Written By: Danielle Elia, Digital Marketing Strategist for Omega High Impact Print Solutions.