Catalog designer transforms product or service information into a comparable publication layout. Cover design is important; However, the customer's ability to find the difference in model, size and usage mostly depends on the inner pages. Preparing the content structure before creating a catalog ensures that the design starts with solid data.
As Selçuk Aker, I evaluate the product group, the information the reader is looking for and the publication format together in catalog design works. The file and navigation needs of the printed catalog to be used in the sales call and the PDF to be shared via e-mail may be different.
Collect product data into a single table
Match product name, code, description, size, variant and photo file. Keeping the same product under different names in different teams can lead to mismatching during layout. Which information is finalized and which is awaiting approval should be clearly marked.
Test the first page draft not with the easiest product, but with the example with the longest description or most complex table. This will show where the layout will be challenged in the following pages. Allocate space according to information need without assuming that every product deserves the same amount of pages.
Set up comparison order in layout
Using consistent placement for the headline, product photo, and technical data makes it easier for the reader to scan. Do not write the same unit of measurement in different formats on different pages. Product families, content list and page numbers should support publication navigation.
Catalog data preparation guide details the pre-production table. The designer's job is to organize the approved information; It is not about completing the missing technical feature by guessing it.
Separate print and PDF delivery
The printing file must be prepared according to the manufacturer's size, color and technical conditions. In screen PDF, readability, links and file size are important. It should not be assumed that a single file is suitable for all uses.
Specify the cover, number of inner pages, new templates, visual editing and revision scope in the proposal. At my catalog designer service we can plan delivery according to your publication needs. If an editable source is desired, program and file transfer conditions should be discussed at the beginning.
Frequently asked questions
Does the catalog designer also write product texts?
This should be decided separately. The accuracy of technical information and commercial claims is confirmed by the business.
Can I get an offer before the number of pages is finalized?
Estimated scope can be prepared with content samples. The page plan becomes clearer as the number of products and data density are seen.
Can the current catalog be updated?
Updates can be made if the source file, font and images are suitable. First, the files need to be examined.
