The Importance of Proofing

As a designer, I cannot stress the importance of carefully proofing enough. Whether you’re a bride or a business client, YOU are the expert of your event or project.

Before I send artwork off to a printer, I have my clients sign a Proof Approval Form. I understand it’s not terribly exciting and many clients (brides especially) are just so stoked to see the finished product. This little form can seem like a pain in the buttocks more than anything else. But I don’t use it for the sake of annoyance. If you approve artwork without looking over everything carefully and then discover a misspelled name, an incorrect date or an erroneous price point, you have little choice. You can either live with the mistake or pay to have everything reprinted.

I do my best to hammer this point home to my clients, but I’m still met with the occasional “oops”. Oftentimes followed by an obscenity. I also do my best to review everything before I send artwork. But from a designer’s perspective, I am looking at your piece about 500% more than you. Which can unfortunately lead to lazy eye. And again, YOU are the expert of your project.

Whether you’re working with me (preferred) or another designer, it’s important to review the following points on any piece that will eventually find its way to the printer:

• Are important names, locations, products spelled correctly?

• If you’re listing dates, check your calendar to ensure the day, date and times are listed appropriately.

• How does the grammar look?

• If you’re listing phone numbers, have you test dialed the number to ensure accuracy?

• Do the colors and/or photos look right? (These items can sometimes appear differently on an initial proof – especially if it’s in a digital format. Check with your designer if you have any questions.)

• If you have questions or feel confused about something, DON’T miss your chance to clarify with your designer. If you approve everything and sign my form, you are essentially signing a contract to print. The printer is not going to review anything for you – their priority is to get the job to press quickly.

That’s my two cents. Do you have any additional tips to ensure accuracy?