Briefing a graphic designer for a brochure

While not all projects should be briefed in the same way the following can be used as a guide to setting a base standard of communication. Here are some simple aspects within single project to communicate at the initial stages.

The following is an example

Re: A4 brochure new project

A) Name of the project. Keep it short and descriptive. e.g. A4 4 page sales brochure

B) Primary purpose of the document and if needed - secondary purpose of the document

C) Folded or trimmed size of project in mm x mm  (if known or guide only)

D) Quantity of pages or quantity of kinds or both (if known or guide only)

E) Approved text 'unformatted'. text only. (use as an attachment and use a short descriptive file name) or,

F) Should the text still be in development - ask the designer if they can recommend a copywriter or request that only concepts are required until the text is completed.

Tip with timing concerns: If time is causing the design stage to be merged with the text writing stage, make this clear to the designer so they can provide valuable advice in this area.
Tip to save money: As designers time is usually charged based on time and materials whether they are designing or simply opening a file and making a minor authors correction edit, it can save a client to begin with approved text rather than beginning with rough text the layout as a text editing forum.
If it's just a concept needed: Concepts are often created only using latin text to show a look and feel. It is common for a concept to only visualise a cover and a spread to show style of design. This can take the focus off the text and place it onto the look and feel while the actual text is being edited and written.

G) Advise the timeline for the delivery of the printed document

H) Give the designer an idea of the quantities that you will be printing and if you have a printer in mind. If you don't have a printer in mind, let the designer know.

I) Mandatory elements - Advise that you can provide elements such as logos as eps files and provide imagery in the highest resolution or quality format available. If the designer already has many of the mandatory elements, then identify them by name, description or name of file.

J) Imagery: Advise if you wish to discuss photography options including options such as; Photographer hire, stock library image purchase, or using existing imagery you own. And perhaps indicate a photography budget or request a price.

K) Using your own photographs: Client pre-sorting and categorisation of images saves a lot of time and money for all concerned. It is best to have your designer designing rather than sorting as projects are usually charged based on time and materials.

L) Are any complex illustrations required or additional symbols or logos required for recreation or redrawing?

M) Other - anything else not mentioned above but deemed as important to consider in terms of target audience, position in store, usage etc.

Needing a corporate brochure or another designed item. Contact a professional design studio in Melbourne.