Page Layout tools

Well the folks over at TechSoup and Idealware have done it again. Another great article, this time about page layout programs. If you’re not sure what that means, let me give you a quick breakdown.

A page layout program is what most of us would consider to be a graphic design program. Technically this isn’t true as a graphic design program is mean to be used to create graphics, hence the name. An example would be Adobe Illustrator or Corel Draw. A page layout program on the other hand is used to lay things out on a page. That’s what you’d use to create a flyer, brochure or newsletter.

This article talks about the options that are available to use when it comes to choosing & using a page layout program. Now anyone that’s talked to me knows:

1. I hate Publisher (my personal preference, not that the program is bad or anything)
2. I LOVE Adobe InDesign (again personal preference).
3. I NEVER EVER recommend using Word for page layout. It’s just not good at it.

Now  there are plenty of reason to use Word and some to not use Word. This article does a great job covering them.

The one thing it does fail to mention, and really one of the biggest factors in choosing a page layout program is printing.

How are you going to print your final product? Is it on the office printer or through a commercial printer. Why is this important? Well if your printing in house you can use what ever makes you happy and provides you with a lovely printed copy. Be it Word, Publisher, or Notepad for that matter.

However, if you are using a commercial printer; there are several factor that should weigh in on your decision making process when it comes to choosing a program.

1. Will the commercial printer take a file created in your program? Most printers will not accept a Publisher file. a) It doesn’t great high quality files (although I’ve been told that the newest version, Publisher 2007, can) and b) they don’t have it (Publisher that is).
2. Will it create high quality PDF files. More and more commercial printers are accepting PDF files for commercial printing (you should always ask first). But that doesn’t mean the program you are using can create high quality PDF’s. It may allow you to print/save/export your piece as a PDF but if it’s low quality, it won’t print very well on a commercial printing press.

And, as always, my recommendation would be InDesign. Since Adobe joined TechSoup, your nonprofit may quality for a discounted copy. If you don’t qualify, Adobe still has nonprofit pricing; it’s just not as good of a deal as it is through TechSoup. And you can always take a class on using it here at NPower.