The common denominator in assuring a quality print project is to obtain graphic elements that are of consistent high quality. Print consists of a design, creative elements and the printer. The Design: The design is the central driving document of the project. Usually developed as part of the bid process, the design, also called a "comp" (for "composite") or "rough," the design is further crafted during the pre-production process, ending in a "fine comp." The client may, in the process of developing the fine comp, go through several ideas or iterations of the design with the vendor's creative director. Finally, an ideal design will be approved and the rest of the print production staff are brought into the project.

Creative Elements: Creative elements include text (also called, "copy"), graphic elements such as diagrams and logos, and photography. Most of these elements will be created by the vendor's professional staff, working closely with the client. Generally, the design elements will require one or more photographers and their assistants, one or more graphic designers and a copywriter.

Occassionally, other professionals may be required. A typographer, to render an unusual font, an archivist, to research and acquire photos or information from historical sources and an illustrator, to create pictorial renderings are just three examples of specialized talent which may be needed.

Often, a client will supply elements from its archives, such as photographs, which are not as professional as results which will be obtained later in the creative process. The necessity of such elements must be evaluated prior to production.

The Printer: Identifying the printer is the final stage of pre-production. There are many kinds of printers, ranging in size, issue, location, specialty, speed and capabilities. Your vendor must have a wide knowledge of available print contractors in able to match your project to the best manufacturer. An large, Tokyo-based printer who specializes in large format color posters in lots of 10,000 on 90 day schedules with the ability to add holographic details, will not be the best choice printing 5,000 small, 2-color brochures in ten days.

The vendor will select one or more printers during the pre-production phase. Most good printers are continually working and require accurate advance notice in advance of a job's arrival. Since the process of design must allow some flexibility in schedule, the wise vendor will line up at least two printers who are capable of handling the project. In this way, if the project misses one printer's available time slot, the vendor can switch to another printer and keep the job on schedule.

At this time, the vendor may also assign a Print Supervisor. The Print Supervisor will oversee the job as it passes through the steps of printing, checking for quality and color consistency. Sometimes, the Graphic Designer serves this function, since she is often the most familiar with all quality issues.

When the final design is approved by the client, production of the printed work begins.