Master File
High-resolution layered source file (InDesign/Illustrator) with linked assets and visible edit history for future revisions and troubleshooting.
Accurate Marketing Brochure Artwork prevents printing errors, avoids legal exposure from unlicensed assets, and preserves brand consistency across channels. Clear specs reduce vendor questions and shorten time to market.
Multiple groups touch brochure artwork from creation through delivery; knowing roles avoids duplication and delays.
Assigning clear responsibilities—who supplies assets, who approves, who signs off—keeps production predictable and auditable.
High-resolution layered source file (InDesign/Illustrator) with linked assets and visible edit history for future revisions and troubleshooting.
Exported PDF/X or PDF/A with bleeds, printer marks, and flattened transparency where required for reliable press output.
Declared color space (CMYK profile or spot PMS swatches) and proofing instructions to reduce color variance across runs.
Original images at 300 dpi or higher with licensing metadata and source attribution to avoid copyright disputes.
Embedded or outlined fonts plus license statements; include permissions for commercial use to prevent distribution restrictions.
Signed sign-off page or eSignature audit trail showing approver identity, date, and version to document final authorization.
| File format | PDF/X-1a | Use for most commercial printing workflows. |
|---|---|
| Color profile | CMYK (U.S. Web Coated SWOP) | Printer-specific profiles override when provided. |
| Bleed | .125 in | Minimum edge bleed for trimming. |
| Resolution | 300 dpi | Required for images intended for print. |
| Fonts | Embed or outline | Embedding preferred; outline when required by vendor. |
Confirm supported file formats, required integrations, and eSignature capabilities before sending artwork.
Ensure the chosen platforms preserve metadata, allow secure file transfer, and maintain an auditable approval history for compliance and reprints.
2–4 weeks before final print date.
3–5 business days after submission.
At least 72 hours before print run.
5–10 business days depending on volume.
1–3 business days after file optimization.
Confirm goals, audience, size, and deliverables.
Review drafts, consolidate feedback, and finalize visuals.
Approve bleed, color, and embedded fonts for printing.
Execute print run or publish digital assets to channels.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day trial | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor |
| Bulk Send | Yes (plan dependent) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies | Varies | Varies |