Prepress Bloopers

Changing a file's name will break these links, potentially substituting the wrong image, and bringing prepress processing to a screeching halt. Therefore, never, ever rename lower-res versions of OPI-linked files.

NO CLUES

The prepress process slows to a crawl when the printer receives an envelope with a disk-and only a disk-inside.

Omit an explanatory cover letter, or send the wrong version of a hard copy, and the door to job miscommunication is opened.

Accurate proofs must accompany and identify pages submitted on disk for processing. This simple clerical step assures proper image placement, allows page count checks and blank page placement, and keeps the printer in sync with your purchase order.

Always take the extra minute to confirm the hard copy you send for production is identical to the file on disk.

Production stops and schedules are blown when a discrepancy is discovered between supplied copy and output proofs. Worse, errors missed due to mismatched proofs can make it to press and out to readers.

NESTED NASTIES

Here's a recipe for output disaster: Set some type, and save it as EPS1. Import EPS1 into Adobe Illustrator, and make it part of a logo. Now save the art as EPS2, and import EPS2 into a QuarkXPress page.

Buzz! You lose! Nesting files inside other files demands intricate processing that confuses a RIP. The result can be substituted fonts, reflowed type, and gaping holes in your output.

Nesting files also creates linking problems between applications that causes unpredictable results.

Avoid nesting by converting type to outline form in a drawing program before importing it into the final layout document.

Keep a copy of your original type file, in case later corrections are necessary, as outline-format type isn't easily corrected.

CONFLICTING CONTENT

The computer revolution notwithstanding, the human element remains a big part of the prepress equation.