Top 6 questions for Designing a Brochure
Designing a brochure should not just happen. A brochure design agency should understand certain things about why the client has decided on having a Brochure. We need to ask certain questions like this including what are the expected results from the Brochure. Whoever are the Brochure Designers they should have the experience and integrity to manage the clients expectations. This would include about what the Brochure will or not do for them.
We all understand the importance of Brochures and the part they play in marketing so this needs to explained fully to the client first.
Going back and asking questions that should have been asked during an initial meeting consumes important time and may decrease your credibility with the customer.
But I have seen at graphic design agencies this happen. The account manager is excited about having a Brochure order they have forgotten to ask some fundamental things.
It’s only when he starts to advise the Brochure Brief to the graphic designer this becomes evident.
I’ve put together a series of lists of questions to ask clients when starting a new project to assist ensure a smooth start to each of your projects.
1. What is the brochure’s purpose?
– Make sure you understand the piece’s goals and what the company wants it to say about them. The answers to these questions will help guide the creative team.
2. Who is going to read the brochure?
– The writing style and material will differ depending on the audience. For example, if the audience consists of current customers, you may be able to provide a high-level overview of specific sectors. This is because they are already acquainted with the company and the services it provides. If it is for new clients, they may have no prior understanding of the firm or what they offer and may require additional information.
3. Do you have existing copy?
– Once you’ve determined what they want the brochure to convey, you’ll need to establish whether there is material from an existing piece that can be adjusted. If not whether the client will write and deliver it, or if copywriting is required to develop content from start.
4. Do you already have images?
– Discuss with the client whether they have images they can give you. Otherwise are they considering undertaking bespoke photography, or whether stock photos will be required. If stock photographs are required, make sure to budget for them.
5. What size of Brochure would you like?
In the UK we have various ‘A’ sizes but A4 is the most popular size for a Brochure. You also need to find out if the client has a preference for Portrait (tall and thin) or landscape (wide and not so tall).
I learnt to remember this when back years ago a potential client said to me – of course I want it A4 and portrait size. I asked why? He said well if you are designing me such a great Brochure I want my customers to keep it.
Therefore this size is better for someone to keep on their bookshelf.
6. Could you please provide me a high-resolution version of your logo?
– You will need to receive a high-resolution logo file from the client if you do not already have one. Obtaining one from their website or any other electronic source will not produce a high enough quality for printing. If they don’t have one, you can offer to either design a new one or redraw their logo into a hi res version.
Because each project is unique, you may need to acquire additional information and ask questions of your client to verify things. Brochure designers need as much information as possible, the more information provided the more chance the Brochure design is what the client wanted.
With this easy list, though, you will have the fundamentals covered and will be able to get started on your next brochure job right away.
Brochure Designers and Graphic design services
Core Design Communications have over 20 years Brochure design experience. We have built a great reputation of value for money graphic design services that include brochure design.
We are always flexible to design your Brochure or flyers quickly with a great print design service as well that can get printed within a couple of days.
Flyer design is a big part of our graphic design services
