Usage rights and licensing can understandably be confusing for organizations to navigate. In our experience, many people simply are not aware that fonts, websites, illustrations, music and photos can all be subject to licensing and copyrights. Social media, with all of its content sharing, has helped foster a false impression that all media is up for grabs, which is just not the case—that’s where the right design firm comes in.

It’s no surprise that unanticipated situations can arise, catching the uninformed off guard.

Story 1: A client shared with us that they had purchased the rights to a photo, but only for one-time use. When their colleague mistakenly used the photo in another piece within the campaign, a major stock photography agency sued them for fraudulent use of an image.

An experienced design firm attuned to usage rights and the ownership of creative works can serve as a guide for their clients—asking them the right questions, providing them with a sense of awareness and simply anticipating potential problems before they arise. For example, if you’re providing artwork to your design firm, be sure your organization has secured the rights for the images and that you’ll be using them in a way that is consistent with your agreement. If you haven’t secured the rights, your firm can help you find similar, suitable artwork.

We know most firms do not intentionally set out to infringe on copyrights, but violations do occur.

Story 2: Another client experiencing functionality issues with their website decided to update it. When they requested a complete copy of the site from the company that had built it, the company refused. The client was stunned to learn that proprietary software coding was embedded throughout their website—effectively holding them hostage to that vendor or forcing them to rebuild it from scratch with someone else.

So how can your organization be proactive?

• Talk with your design firm about copyright issues
• Be aware enough to ask informed questions
• Choose a design firm that is transparent and will help protect your company
• Respect the usage rights of others’ work
• Spread the word—share what you learn within your organization

Have additional questions? We have the expertise to chart the right course for your organization. Visit us at deverdesigns.com or call 301-776-2812.

It’s just ink on paper. What could be so hard about that?

As a senior graphic designer and project manager with years of experience under my belt, let me be the first to tell you that nothing about the printing process and choosing the right printer is quite that simple.

The good news is that whether you allow Dever Designs to select one of our trusted vendors for your project or you choose your own printer, being prepared and proactively planning ahead will make the process easier and increase your likelihood for success.

Figure out what you want
Step one in determining the best vendor for your print project involves determining exactly what it is you’re looking for. By defining and outlining the parameters of your project up front, you’ll be that much closer to selecting the right printer for the job.

As you think about the specifics of your job, these are some questions you may want to ask:

• How many copies will be printed?
• When do they need to be distributed?
• How will your content be distributed? Will it be mailed, or handed out at a trade show?
• Is this a one-time piece, or does it require a shelf life?
• How complex is the project? Does it require special techniques such as foil stamping or a die cut? Hint: if your project is more complex in nature, you will want it to go to a higher-end printer to ensure a successful outcome.
• How sophisticated is your audience? If your collateral is for a board of directors or an advocate on Capitol Hill, quality will be essential.

All paper is not created equal
Choosing the right paper sets the appropriate tone for your project. Since you’ve already outlined the parameters of your project, you’ll know whether you’re creating a media kit that needs to be able to endure some wear and tear or a postcard that won’t have a long shelf life. Depending on your needs, you may want a heavier paper stock for an evergreen piece. You’ll also need to determine if you want coated or uncoated paper. Uncoated paper is easy to write on and can convey an eco-friendly feel, while coated paper will make your photos pop. The prices and options for paper stock vary greatly, so you’ll want to do your research and see samples.

There’s no such thing as too much lead time
If there’s anything I can emphasize that will help make sure you end up with a beautifully printed piece, it is to allow as much lead time as possible. Whether you’re looking to design and print a piece or it’s ready for press, advance notice is essential. We recommend a minimum of one month’s notice to design and print a simple piece, but planning early gives us time to consider more options, offer better solutions to meet your needs and helps to avoid costly errors or omissions. If you have an annual event, you are advised to come to us as much as a year in advance to set the wheels in motion. Printers are busy folks, and they need to have lead time to set up their presses and staff to run your job.

For the DIYers
If you are selecting a printer on your own, we offer the following advice:

• We recommend obtaining three quotes. Make sure each printer is presented with exactly the same project specifications.
• Do your homework—get samples and recommendations from those you trust.
• Look for an atmosphere of customer service. Are they happy to work with you and make necessary tweaks for the benefit of your project?
• You get what you pay for. Cheaper doesn’t always mean the best value. It’s all about choosing the right vendor.

At Dever Designs, we know the printing process inside and out and have established successful relationships with a variety of vendors. Don’t hesitate to contact us with your questions or to talk to us about your next project! To see some of our work, click here. Visit us at deverdesigns.com or call us at 301-776-2812.