Tips for An Effective Proofing Process

Did you know that both the designer and the client are responsible for proofing the content of a design? However, in most cases, when the client approves their proof, they take full responsibility for any errors found after printing or publishing.

Please follow these steps for proofing to ensure that your final product is perfect. You don’t want to go through the hassle of paying for a reprint of your printed order.

TEXT
Read through ALL text on your proof very carefully. While most designers spell-check your design using their design programs, this does not pick up on all errors, such as “there” vs. “their.” Confirm that all contact information appears correctly, especially phone numbers, email addresses, and website addresses. Even if you went over your original proof with a fine tooth comb at the beginning of the proofing process, be sure to also do this with the final proof before approving.

IMAGES
Go over all images and logos on your design very carefully. Many times the client and the designer are so focused on the written content of a design that they forget to double-check the images. You don’t want to end up with a repeat or unassociated image on your printed brochure.

REQUEST CHANGES IN A TIMELY MANNER
Contact your designer as soon as possible with the requested changes that you have for your proof, especially if you are trying to reach a fast-approaching deadline. Frequently, designers get very busy and giving them enough time to make the required changes is very important.

BE SURE TO APPROVE YOUR PROOF
If you have no further changes on your design, be sure to give your designer notice that the proof is approved. Many times a client is so excited that their design is ready to be sent off to the printer that they forget to tell the designer that it is good to go.