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Preflight Checklist

FILE PREP FOR PREFLIGHT Preflighting is used to make sure your digital files that are reqired for the printing process are valid, correctly formatted and all necessary files are in the correct folder including fonts, pictures, and any other files are used. The preflight will locate and make sure all files are in the correct folder for printing. If one file is missing preflight will indicate a file is missing. JOB SHEET: every job should have this included with the file. It should include: company name, number, fax, job #, directories and file names, description of fonts and color swatches, software used and printing instructions. PROOFS: All customers should recieve a proof with a signature authorizing you to send to final print. This is to assure that any or all corrections have been completed. Proofs should have graphics, fonts, bleeds and include crop marks if required for the job. Make sure you note on the proof if the size is not 100% of the final product. Again label all proofs with your contact information as well as the customer. Having a proof signed off by client could save you thousands if the client ever goes back on you. COLOR SEPARATION PROOFS: You may want to check to make sure all of the colors separate properly. DUMMY: The dummy will indicate folds, diecuts, page set up FONTS: Be sure to include your font folder of all fonts used. Do not use the Bold and Italic at the top of the page to identify font sturcture!!! You need to use the correct font if it is bold helvetica make sure you have the true font (Type 1, TrueType, Open Type), also make sure fonts are not corrupt. -convert fonts into outlines or paths PRINTING SET UP: check placement of crop marks (if using) and make sure your bleeds are no more than 1/8" . BACK UP COPIES: Never send the only copy of a file you have, make sure you have a copy of everything you sent out for a job. Make sure you label cd with your company name, job #, files, fonts or images on the disk. Make sure you include the most current file to be printed. SENDING FILES VIA INTERNET: make sure you zip your file GRAPHICS: Send all graphics used in your file at the correct size. If it is cropped send it cropped. If it is scaled send it scaled.

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