Brochures are one of the marketing tools that every business always uses. Brochures have the flexibility to replace expensive advertising media, so they can cut budgets without cutting back on marketing. Creating a brochure design is quite easy, especially with the many free templates available. But an attractive brochure design requires a solid plan and must follow specific design guidelines. Here are 5 steps for you to design a smart brochure.
Step
Step 1. Make a plan
Printing brochures without planning can result in inconsistent type, graphics, and layout. You have to think about how you will use the brochure and who your audience will be. You can decide to adapt the design for a specific event or product, or you can create a design that is more versatile and can be used as direct mail, guides, and in response to questions. Whatever the purpose, brochures should be designed for a specific audience, so that everything - information, layout, even fold size and type - is organized according to common needs, wants and tastes.
Step 2. Choose a brochure format
Brochure format options include size, paper type, fold, and possibly layering. Choose a size and fold that can include all the information but still be practical to display the purpose of the brochure. For example, a large brochure would be more conspicuous but impractical for correspondence purposes. Three-fold brochures are great for direct mail brochures, but aren't the best folding option if you're distributing an open presentation.
Step 3. Choose a paper type that is durable but still foldable
Keep in mind that heavier paper types make your business look more professional. Some paper types can only handle glossy coatings, but other paper types can support matte finishes. Glossy coatings make colors and images more vibrant while matte finishes give a softer look, so choose a paper type that suits your image purpose.
Step 4. Gather content - Content includes copy, photos, graphics, and order forms or response cards
Write copy in a consistent tone, easy-to-read language, and short sentences. The title should look catchy and informative so readers want to find out more. Don't forget the call to action and contact information should be prominent but in the right place in the brochure.
Step 5. Use photos that reinforce the message, such as images of customers using your product
Graphics include artwork, your company logo, charts, and graphics. Make sure that all images have a resolution of 300 dpi for a sharp look when printed. The order form or response card should be easily removable. This form is suitable for correspondence purposes - no envelope required - so add enough space for your postage and address.
Step 6. Organize the content well
Each brochure format has a different layout, but there are some layout tips that are common to all types of brochures. The first is to break long paragraphs of text into bullet points and (not too many) boxes to separate out additional or important information. Create center uneven margins to prevent an amateurish look, and use white space to create natural transitions from one section to another. Use headings and subheadings to make your brochure easier to skim, as most readers don't want to read long blocks of text. Most importantly, keep the brochure design simple. Too many charts, boxes, or pictures and information will make the brochure messy and the message hidden in the crowd. Decide which colors to use for your content. Use brand colors so consumers can recognize the brochure as yours. Limit the number of color schemes to 2, 3, or 4 kinds, and use each color consistently throughout the brochure. For example, one color can be used for titles and subtitles only, while another color can be used only for the background.
Step 7. Print the brochure
For professional results, print the brochure on a professional printer. Make sure you choose a printer that has experience printing brochures and can also offer special options and services needed. Before submitting the file, contact the printer to find out the file format, file version, and other information regarding the file. Most printers prefer that you send the font and image files along with the design files so they can get the layout right. If you are using RGB colors, change them to CMYK colors before printing, as offset printing uses CMYK colors.
