Exercise 2: Planning your workflow

However you plan to work in the production of your book, spend some time now planning your workflow, using the notes above as a guide.

Think about how much flexibility you can allow yourself – don’t put yourself under too much pressure. At the same time, be aware of time constraints that may be outside your control. If you’re using a local printer, for example, make contact as soon as possible. Your printer may have a limited timeframe for doing your job and you’ll need to factor this into your workflow.

Initially, I will generate ideas and develop a direction to move in. I will decide how the book will be outputted. A general idea will be developed before taking shape and being refined.

Phase 1: Scoping

This phase will include researching printers and finding out what kind of timeframe they offer for their services. I will decide whether to visit a printer in person or use an online service (Covid-19 will probably influence this choice). I will also find out prices and what the output options are. This will include comparisons of printing services as well as binding services. I should also find sites to source images if needed.

Estimated duration: 5 days

Phase 2: Creating content

At this stage I will do my main research. This will probably include mind maps, sketches and mood boards and will be a combination of online and book based. Depending upon the amount of text needed, I will need to begin writing. Software choices will need to be taken into account, i.e. Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign. With further research I should have a printer of choice and backup options. The most time consuming part of this phase will probably be content creation. If I’m using photographs I will either need to go and shoot new photographs, edit existing ones or source free images online.

Estimated duration: 7 days

Phase 3: Design

With content created I will now need to focus on the page layout and format, as well as the arranging of text and image elements. I will create more sketches to aid with this and try different grids. I’ll also need to decide on my typeface which may include extra research. I think flat-plans will also be an important part of this phase.

Estimated duration: 7 days

Phase 4: Pre-production

This should be the quickest phase. It will involve saving and backing up with the correct file formats. Another important step to take is to print out the design on my home computer and check for errors or alterations that are needed.

Estimated duration: 3 days

Phase 5: Printing and production

This final step involves sending the finished files to the printer. Whether I use a printer in person or online, I will need to communicate what I need. After printing, binding will also be completed either at the printer or by myself at home.

Estimated duration: Dependent upon printer

I think it is also worth mentioning that critiquing will be an ongoing task throughout each phase because the project is always fluid and never set in stone. Staying with the the theme of fluidity, the estimated durations could vary and hopefully be finished quicker than anticipated.