Frequently Asked Questions

What types of files do you accept?
Why is some desktop publishing software difficult to work with?
Do you accept PDF files?
Do you prefer Mac or PC platform files?
Why do I need to supply fonts with my files?
Why do I need to supply all of the images/graphics with my files?
How should I send you my files?
What size should I make my document?
Will Citizen divide my printed pieces and ship them to different addresses?

What types of files do you accept?
We prefer documents created in InDesign, QuarkXPress, Illustrator, Photoshop, Corel Draw, Freehand, and Pagemaker*. We can accept other types of files but they may require additional art time in order for them to process as expected.*Pagemaker's current compatibility with newer operating systems and RIPs is not good and it's future upgrading is questionable.

Why is some desktop publishing software difficult to work with?
Files created in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher or similar desktop applications are not compatible with postscript level output. Having said that, we need to assure these types of files will print properly. We need to meet your expectations. So, please bring in laser copies of your project with a CD and we'll review, quote, and do some problem solving. They may print beautifully to your desktop printer but your files will not print the same to the specialized output devices used in the print industry. These types of files may require additional production time to make them print or we may have to recreate the files from scratch using proper layout programs.

Do you accept PDF files?
PDF files are used for a variety of different purposes and can potentially be used for postscript level output. However, that completely depends on how the PDF is written. If we are provided with PDF's that haven't been created in the correct format, we cannot fix them after the fact. In this case, we can't insure what results can be achieved.

Do you prefer Mac or PC platform files?
We have no preference. We can accept files from either Mac or PC platform.

Why do I need to supply fonts with my files?
If fonts are not provided with files the text may flow differently when we substitute our fonts or we may not have the font used in your file.

Why do I need to supply all of the images/graphics with my files?
If all of the linked images are not supplied with project files, your project may not print as expected. Sometimes there are issues with image resolution or color and we may need to adjust your images to make them print properly.

How should I send you my files?
We can accept files on cd, floppy disk, via email, or you can transfer your files to our ftp site. Ask your sales person for our ftp site username and password.

What size should I make my document?
Always make your document the size your final piece will be trimmed to. If your piece has bleeds, add at least 1/8" image beyond the document edge. For example, if you are going to print letterhead with images that go to the edge of the trim size, you will need to add image at least 1/8" past the trim edge but the document size will still be 8 1/2 x 11.

Will Citizen divide my printed pieces and ship them to different addresses?
Yes. We can custom package and mail any order to your specifications.