FAQ
Quotations
How much will a template cost?
Generally the time it takes to complete a template varies depending on the on the type of document, layout, state of any originals, and the degree of automation involved.
I’ll send you a quote based on the information I have (so the more you can tell me the better) and if you’re not quite sure if what you have in mind is possible, float your idea by me anyway.
What do you need for a quote?
Microsoft Office Templates
Most of the time a PDF of the design is enough to get a rough idea and a quote together. Let me know if you intend to include custom VBA and combine multiple elements such as extra cover pages, address blocks and disclaimers. If you have a vast amount of templates I can advise a cost-effective approach and options to suit your budget.
Document Formatting
When determining how long document formatting might take, many variables may be involved such as the current formatting of the source content, amount of charts, diagrams and tables, and the layout and destination – the desired end look and feel of the document. Sending the original file (such as a Word Document or PowerPoint presentation) along with a PDF and any existing brand guidelines or templates can help give a more accurate quote.
VBA Automation
I understand sometimes it’s hard to know what you want, if the concept is new to you and you don’t know what’s possible to automate. Generally anything that you can do with multiple clicks, is more than likely possible to automate with custom VBA automation. Email me with your ideas and questions and I’ll get back to you with some suggestions.
What software?
When you open files built on a PC version of Microsoft Office, they may not always look the same as when you open it on a Mac and vice versa. It’s important to have a template setup on the correct software platform. Tell me what you use so you can be rest assured things look and function as they are supposed to and I can determine if there will be any incompatibilities if your templates need to function on Mac and PC.
Information I would love to know before quoting:
- Are you are using a Mac or a PC?
- What version of Microsoft Office?
- Are you using purchased fonts or standard Microsoft Office fonts?
- Do you have a brand/style guideline to send?
Can you work with my deadline?
I can absolutely try!
When issuing a quote I”ll give an expected delivery dates. If this isn’t quick enough, let me know and I will see what I can do to help speed things up. Tighter deadlines at short notice may require me to rearrange schedules or work out of hours. An additional rush fee will be discussed of 30% will be itemised in the initial quotation or added to the final invoice.
Briefing
What files do you need?
I will normally tell you what files I need in our quote before I get started.
As a standard rule, I usually ask for the final files and artwork files along with a PDF for quality and consistency checking. I want to make sure the standard of our finished work, is what you expected. If you are using custom fonts, we will need a copy of the exact font file also.
Generally it’s always helpful to supply any brand guidelines so I can make sure your files tick all the boxes.
You can check what fonts are supplied with Microsoft Office by looking for them in this Guide to Cloud Fonts by Design to Present Fonts
Do you work with style guides?
Absolutely!
Send across your style guide and I will make sure all fonts, colours and branding specifications are met and are consistent across your stationery suite.
What if I already have a template?
If you want to give you existing templates a little more oomph, send them across and we can discuss what value can be added while fixing any annoying issues you may be having.
Will formatting change my words?
In short: no. Formatting paragraphs will apply to the look and layout of the document, not the words. Consistency will be addressed to ensure the headings look the same, i.e. as all headings are uppercase, or are punctuated properly, and format tables appear consistent along with any figure captions.
Do you proofread my documents?
I believe I should stick to what I know – creating great consistent documents and functional templates.
Therefore I’ll leave the proofreading to you, but I’ll let you know if I spot a typo!
Are you a designer? Can you design my templates?
Being a template developer, I do see alot of different document designs which can give me some ideas how to incorporate your brand into a template suite. However whilst I can tackle some design tasks, if you are looking for an glamorous snazzy PowerPoint Presentation, I am happy to introduce you to some great designers who have that extra creative flair you’re looking for.
What software do you use?
To make sure your documents look and function properly, I have have many different versions of Microsoft Office available. Typically templates are setup in the latest version of Microsoft Office 365. Generally the compatiblity is the same as Microsoft Office 2013+, however if you are strictly running an older version please let me know what you use so I can make sure your files work to their optimum ability.
For the design software, I use Adobe Creative Cloud and other special programming software and tools.
Delivery
What files will I get back?
Microsoft Office templates will be emailed along with a PDF example of a document created with the template. For templates and VBA automation, an instruction sheet will be provided detailing how to install, and use the new functionality. With complex custom systems I may suggest additional time to create a video tutorial explaining the many functions which can then be stored on your local network.
When do I make a payment?
Projects requiring an initial 50% deposit is payable before development commences.
The final invoice will be due 7 days from the date of issue and will be emailed at the project completion.
More information can be found in our Terms & Conditions.
I want to cancel the job
No problem. If development has already commenced we may issue an invoice for the time spent.
More information can be found in our Terms & Conditions page.
Feedback
Can you make some changes?
Sure! I’m are happy to handle any minor edits free of charge. Any substantial design changes may be subjected to a revised cost. Should any automation errors occur, I am happy to fix these for up to 1 calendar month. I believe this is sufficient time for the functionality to be thoroughly used and tested. More information can be found on our Terms & Conditions page.
How can I explain my changes?
Marked up PDF
The easiest way to tell me your changes is to use the comments feature in Adobe Acrobat Reader.
On an open PDF, you can place comment notes on the exact locations you want changed or you can highlight text. This method can save you time and helps interpret your requests more quickly and accurately.
Alternatively, if you want to describe your changes in an email, that’s fine too. Whenever possible, it’s always helpful to provide screenshots to better understand your change requests.
Watch this short video to learn how to work with Adobe Readers markup tools.
In PowerPoint
The flexibility in PowerPoint is great for marking up document changes.
You can use the Windows Snipping tool to take a screenshot, press CTRL + V to paste it directly into a blank PowerPoint presentation.
Inserting text boxes, or arrows can quickly highlight key feedback.
You can also take screenshots by, pressing the Print Screen key on the keyboard, and CTRL + V to paste into PowerPoint without needing to save a picture down onto your hard drive. If you want to capture only the window you have open, you can press ALT + Print screen.