Press Check
A Press Check is a critical quality control step in the printing process where a designer or print production professional reviews the first samples of printed materials as they come off the printing press. This is like a final inspection to make sure colors, layout, and overall quality match what the client approved. Think of it as a last checkpoint before printing thousands of copies, similar to how a chef tastes a dish before serving it to customers. This term often appears in job descriptions because it shows that a designer understands the entire print production process, not just digital design.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted Press Checks for high-profile client marketing materials ensuring color accuracy and print quality
Managed quality control through regular Press Check attendance at local and regional print vendors
Led team responsibilities for Press Checks and print production oversight on projects exceeding $100,000
Typical job title: "Print Production Designers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Print Production Designers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle a situation where you discover a significant color mismatch during a press check?
Expected Answer: A senior professional should discuss their process for working with press operators, understanding color calibration, making quick decisions about adjustments, and knowing when to stop the press versus when minor variations are acceptable.
Q: How do you manage press checks for multiple projects across different print vendors?
Expected Answer: Should explain their approach to scheduling, prioritizing projects, delegating responsibilities, and maintaining consistent quality standards across different printing facilities.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What key elements do you look for during a press check?
Expected Answer: Should mention checking color accuracy, registration, image quality, paper stock, trim marks, and overall print quality, while explaining why each element matters.
Q: How do you prepare files to minimize issues during press checks?
Expected Answer: Should discuss proper file setup, color specifications, resolution requirements, and communication with printers before production begins.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a press check and why is it important?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that it's a quality control step where printed materials are reviewed before full production, and why this saves time and money by catching problems early.
Q: What would you bring to a press check?
Expected Answer: Should mention bringing approved proofs, color swatches, magnifying glass, and original files as backup, showing basic understanding of the process.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of print production process
- Knowledge of color matching
- Ability to spot basic print quality issues
- Understanding of file preparation for print
Mid (2-5 years)
- Independent press check management
- Strong color correction abilities
- Print specification writing
- Vendor relationship management
Senior (5+ years)
- Multiple project coordination
- Advanced quality control expertise
- Budget management for print production
- Team training and supervision
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with physical printing processes
- Unfamiliarity with color matching systems
- Poor attention to detail
- Lack of experience working directly with print vendors
Related Terms
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