The biggest confusion for businesses that want to have a catalog made is that they confuse the catalog with the brochure. The catalog carries broader product information and technical details; The brochure, on the other hand, creates a short impact with a focused offer message.
In an investment made without clarifying this distinction, the content distribution or printing format will be different than expected and the cost will become inefficient. In the catalogue, the reader comes to make a decision, in the brochure he comes to be quickly convinced.
With the right workflow, the catalog and brochure can support each other within the same campaign: one carries confidence and depth, the other carries speed and appeal.
Which jobs determine the catalog design price?
Catalog price should not be calculated solely by the number of pages. The availability of product data, cleaning of photos, technical tables, language options and complexity of the page layout change the design scope. Two catalogs of the same length may require different preparation.
For example, a study whose product code and descriptions are in a regular table is not the same as a study whose information will be collected from different files. If you expect the designer to collect data, proofread text, or process photographs, include this in the brief. Consider design, printing and distribution costs separately.
Files to share to get quotes
- Product list, category structure and approximate page target.
- List of missing shots with existing photos.
- Responsible for approval of technical information, measurements and prices.
- Separate usage needs of print and digital versions.
- Initial delivery date, number of languages and subsequent update frequency.
Is the brochure always cheaper because it is shorter?
Fewer pages can often mean fewer placements; However, requesting special illustration, intensive visual editing or more than one concept may change the scope. Do not compare two totals that do not include the same services. The printing house's choice of quantity, paper and binding are also production decisions separate from the design fee.
I am Selçuk Aker; As a freelance graphic designer, I divide the scope of catalog design and brochure design according to usage need. Product data preparation guide helps you identify deficiencies before bidding.
Frequently asked questions
Is the difference between a brochure and a catalog only the number of pages?
No. The brochure mostly focuses on promoting a specific message or offer, while the catalog focuses on regular review and comparison of products. Select the material based on the reader's task.
If my products are limited, can I prepare a brochure instead of a catalogue?
You can prepare; However, the decision does not depend only on the number of products. Determine which layout will be most useful by considering the technical comparison, product variant, and sales team usage needs.
