Guide to a successful map project part 8
In the last newsletter I looked at types of custom data you can add to maps. In this final part of this guide I’ll briefly talk about the final product.
There are a few questions I ask in the initial consultation which are important for me to know when I deliver the final product to my clients.
Colour space
What colour space do you require? I usually don’t need to ask my clients this question because they tell me in our initial call whether the map is to be printed or will be provided as a downloadable PDF or embedded image on a website. Once I have that information I set my document colour space as CMYK for printing or RGB for online use.
File format
What file format do you or your printer/publisher need? Many publishers and printers require 300dpi raster files (PNG/TIF/JPG) but some request up to 1200dpi.
Others require vector files such as PDF or EPS. If your printer needs a PDF file, do they need printer and trim marks?
If vector files are needed I typically provided flattened PDF files. Occasionally clients will request the layered design files which I can provide for an additional fee.
Printing
If you are commissioning a map for print, who will procure printing services? Most of my clients work with their own printing companies, but on rare occasions I have looked into printing services near my client and have delivered final files directly to the printer. I do less of that now since most of my clients are municipalities, tourism organizations, or publishers, who have their own processes.
Contact me
I hope this 8-part guide has offered you some useful information. If you are ready to start your mapping project, contact me for a free consultation.