Tips

The following tips are intended to help save you time and money, and give you the best possible finished product.

Copy Center Tips

Jobs can be sent as a pdf file by email as an attachment or on disk. Please specify the software program.
Originals must be 8-1/2 x 11" and free from paperclips and staples.
Leave at least an 1/8" border on the original for copying.
Two-sided copying saves money and paper.
For the best copies prepare originals on inexpensive, smooth, white bond paper.
Use black ink on white paper for best results. Blue ink does not copy well, and sometimes it won't copy at all.
Do not use highlighter pens on originals.
Signatures should always be signed with black ink. Felt tip pens leave a darker image than a ball point.
Use a crisp, dark ribbon to print computer generated originals on impact printers. Draft quality and dot matrix originals do not reproduce well.
Originals should always be on white paper. Colored paper originals create dirty gray or black backgrounds.
Tape can be used on originals to be copied at the Copy Centers, although glue sticks work better. Tape should not be used on originals to be printed at Printing Services. Press cameras will "read" the outline of the tape and create shadows.
On the "Job Request Form" please give the actual date needed. Do not use "ASAP." Orders with actual dates are processed first.
Please provide a complete and accurate account number. Doing so avoids delays in processing the job.

Allow five to ten working days – depending on quantity and number of colors required.
Remember to provide a completed purchase requisition with your job. Include an accurate account number.
Make sure originals are on white paper with black ink.
For electronic files call (989) 774-3216 to discuss software options.
Black and white photographs work best except when doing a four-color job.
A laser or color proof allows you to make changes to your copy and layout before final production. Keep in mind that editing your work from the original is always less expensive.
Any item being prepared for distribution outside the University must follow Public Relations guidelines and policies.

You may send an e-mailed attachment or have our free pick up and delivery service stop by and pick up your mailing burned to a CD – either option needs to be saved as a comma or tab separated text file from any spreadsheet or data base program.

Remember postage will be 16.5 cents a piece for standard size and 23.3 for oversized mailings.
You must provide a sample of your mailing with the order to fulfill Postal Service requirements.
For standard mail rates you need a minimum of 200 pieces or 50 lbs.
All the pieces must be identical, with the CMU campus return address on them.
Mailing must be in zip code order.
If you are providing labels for Printing Services to affix, they must be in zip code order.
Include a zip code report with your labels.
Place flaps down on envelopes if Printing Services is sealing your envelopes.

Originals must be camera ready, black and white, 8-1/2 x 11", and one sided
Limit colors to three if possible.
For assistance with organizing your materials or if you have questions call Susan Russell at (989) 774-3191 or (989) 774-3216.
If using tabs please allow extra time for set up.
Make sure paste ups are secure (no loose edges.)
A copy of "Permission Granted" should always accompany copyrighted materials to be used in your course pack. "Permission Granted" forms are available at Printing Services.
Use the following schedule to ensure that your
course packs are available for students on time:
- For August --- materials due the end of July
- For January --- materials due the end of November


RELATED LINKS: Auxiliary Services Finance and Administrative Services Public Relations and Marketing