Collaborating with a UF/IFAS Communications graphic designer can make your final product more effective, but a smooth partnership requires thoughtful preparation. Whether you’re new to the process or want to improve your approach, here are some of the things you need to collect before getting started:
1. Production details
Know details like document size(s), number of pages, and whether the final output will be printed or digital (for a website, social media, emails, etc.) Will you need an outside vendor to produce your piece? Consider what website or printer you’ll use, or if you need your designer to make a suggestion.
2. Clearly communicate deadlines.
Make sure your designer knows all relevant deadlines. If your designer needs more time than your requested due date, they will let you know before starting.
3. Collect all text.
Most of your content should be written and edited before the design process starts and submitted as a Word document with your project request. Think about headers, subheads, body text, captions, references, and any other information that needs to be included.
4. Collect all images.
Make sure to collect any images you would like to include on your piece and submit them alongside your text. If you don’t have specific photos to use, a designer can search the UF/IFAS Photo database or use Adobe Stock images, but detailed descriptions of what you need are very helpful.
5. Collect and provide all partner logos.
6. Describe needed illustrations in detail.
If your project requires an illustration to be created (infographic, scientific specimens or processes, charts), please provide examples for the designer to base their work off. Remember that you are an expert in your field, but your designer is not.
7. Consider illustration style.
Would you like simple, modern, hand drawn, or something else? Provide an example or sketch if you have one.
8. Know who has the final approval.
Some projects may require you to share design iterations with your team, manager, or an outside group for review. Keep in mind that too many “cooks in the kitchen” can make a design overly complicated or result in unnecessary edits. After gathering the input that you need, focus on getting final design approval from the most important voices (including your own!).
9. Talk to your designer.
If you have any questions about how to prepare your project, or about what your designer may need before getting started, shoot us a message! We’ll be happy to help.
Want to know more about using our services? Check out our blog, Why UF/IFAS Staff Should Utilize Graphic Design Service
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