GDES 127 - Graphic Design Workflow

(R only)

Process of production in graphic communications and use of terminology employed in the industry. Topics include an explanation of key productions terms, identifying applications for tasks at hand, major printing processes, preparation of typography, photography, illustration, and color for commercial output. Also covered are relationships between cost, quality, and time constraints for production, as well as recent developments in digital and print process. Assessment Level(s): READ 120 . Three hours each week. Formerly GD 127.

3 semester hours

Course Outcomes:
Upon course completion, a student will be able to:

Diagram a work plan to guide a printing job through all stages of production.
Identify the special requirements of the USPS.
Analyze costs of materials and labor for best use of printing budget.
Schedule a work flow calendar to achieve on-time delivery.
Recognize the major type families and their origins.
Identify different details within letters ? for example, serifs or x-height.
Employ an appropriate type face for a specific job.
Recognize the fundamental requirements for maximum legibility including type size, line length, leading, margins, overprinting, and reverses.
Analyze photographs submitted for reproduction, noting flaws, defects, tonal range, density, and color that will allow or limit successful reproduction.
Explain in detail the functions of the halftone process.
Differentiate between different file formats used for preparing documents for printing.
Recognize the “preflight” process, the responsibilities of the graphic designer and his counterpart in the production department.
Identify the steps in production of film from files, assembly into flats, and the proofing process.
Employ proofreader marks to make corrections to proofs.
Relate the power of color in print graphics.
Recognize the four color process used for reproducing realistic color.
Practice commercial systems for specifying and matching ink colors.
Differentiate the uses of CMYK and RGB.
Describe the basic processes for making paper and formulating ink.
Identify standard sizes and quantities for commercial papers.
Discuss the physical characteristics of papers and inks and how they contribute to a satisfactory printing job.
Identify uses of specialty papers, inks and coatings.
Recognize the dominant role of offset in general commercial printing.
Explain in detail the offset process and the versatility and economies it provides.
Recognize the importance of a comprehensive press check.
Relate the process of printing four colors to reproduce a full color print.
Differentiate between the main uses and features of gravure, letterpress, screen process, ink jet, engraving, thermography, and flexography.
Identify the differences and comparative uses of on-demand and standard printing.
Explain the following special bindery processes: drilling, punching, scoring, and folding and the finishing processes: embossing, die-cutting, foil stamping, and laminating.
Determine appropriate uses for saddle stitch, mechanical, perfect and case-bound bindings and their relative costs.
Employ a request for a quotation form to send to a commercial printer.
Relate the cost of each design technique in a particular printed product.

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