UMKC's in-house agency

KCUR year in review

How to work with a print vendor

  1. Determine the scope of your project

    Consider the final use for the piece, quantity and level of quality that is expected from the project. If you are simply looking for UMKC stationery, click below:
    Business Cards, Envelopes, Letterhead

    Is it a project that could be completed by a copy center?

    If you need assistance creating the project, find your University Communications contact and call or send us an email to discuss your print project.

  2. Have the project details prepared beforehand

    Have the details of your print project decided upon even if the numbers are just estimates.

    Due date: Date you want the piece delivered to you.

    Page count: Number of pages to the piece.

    Quantity: Number of total pieces to be printed.

    Size: Provide the dimensions of the piece. You will want to measure the piece flat (e.g. flyer, poster) and folded if it is to be folded (e.g. brochure, booklet).

    Bleed: Yes or no? A bleed is when the artwork touches the edges of the piece. Artwork should extend beyond the outer dimensions when so that the piece can be trimmed to size after printing.

    Stock: Paper weight and type.

    Ink: Black and white, full color or spot color.

    Coating: Several types of coating are available to create different finishes for the final piece.

    Electronic File Format: What software are you using to design the piece?

    Proof: Do you want to see a proof, yes or no? If yes, is an electronic PDF an option or do you want a hard copy?

    Bindery: Yes or no?

    Delivery location: Where you want the final product delivered. Consider space for storage if you are printing a large quantity.

  3. Research printing vendors

    University Communications and the Procurement Office have a list of preferred print vendors if you need a place to start your research.

  4. Send out estimates

    You can use University Communications Print Bid Request form. Remember, if a project’s total cost exceeds $5,000 it must be processed through the Procurement Office.

  5. Compare bids

    Although budget constraints are always present, be sure to examine more than just the total cost of the project when determining which print vendor to work with.

  6. Prepare and send artwork

    Be sure to follow these tips when preparing final artwork to send off to a print vendor. The print vendor may have a specific electronic file format they require and a specific delivery method.

  7. Quality control

    Depending on what you answered to the question about a proof in building your estimate. Be sure to inspect a final proof before the full project is completed by the print vendor.