Print Order
A Print Order is a crucial document in magazine and publishing that specifies all the details needed to print a publication correctly. It's like a detailed recipe that tells the printing company exactly how the magazine should be produced, including the number of copies, paper type, size, and special features like inserts or unusual finishes. Publishing professionals use this term when talking about the final steps of magazine production, where they communicate with printers to ensure the magazine comes out exactly as planned.
Examples in Resumes
Managed Print Order specifications for monthly magazine runs of 50,000+ copies
Reduced costs by 15% through optimizing Print Order requirements
Coordinated Print Orders and Production Orders for special edition issues
Typical job title: "Production Coordinators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Production Coordinators
Professional Associations
Job Boards
Industry Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where a print order needs to be modified after it's been submitted to the printer?
Expected Answer: A senior professional should discuss negotiation with printers, cost implications, timeline impacts, and alternative solutions to minimize disruption and expenses.
Q: How do you optimize print orders to reduce costs while maintaining quality?
Expected Answer: Should explain strategies like paper stock selection, print run optimization, combining multiple projects, seasonal pricing considerations, and negotiating with multiple vendors.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What key elements do you check in a print order before submitting it to the printer?
Expected Answer: Should mention quantity, paper stock, size specifications, color requirements, binding method, delivery instructions, and special finishing details.
Q: How do you coordinate timing between editorial deadlines and print order schedules?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating production schedules, working backward from delivery dates, building in buffer time, and managing multiple stakeholder expectations.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What information would you need to gather to create a basic print order?
Expected Answer: Should identify basic elements like quantity, page count, paper type, size, and delivery date requirements.
Q: How would you track the status of multiple print orders?
Expected Answer: Should describe using spreadsheets or project management tools to track submission dates, printer confirmations, and delivery schedules.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic print order preparation
- Understanding print terminology
- File preparation and submission
- Schedule tracking
Mid (2-5 years)
- Print cost estimation
- Vendor relationship management
- Quality control processes
- Production timeline management
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic print buying
- Budget optimization
- Crisis management
- Team supervision
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic printing terminology
- Unable to read or understand print specifications
- No experience with production schedules
- Lack of attention to detail in specifications
- Poor vendor communication skills
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