Yes, the client could probably use Google to find the answers to their file format questions, but they are paying you not only for your ingenious designs, but also for your experience. If you, as the designer, take the time to search for information on various file formats (or simply read the rest of this post), you can show off your knowledge to countless future clients!
Final Design Color/Layout Options
Many times the client may not consider all the different formats that are useful to have. Asking clients if they would like the logo in grey scale and black and white will save them time and trouble in the future.
There are also layout options concerning the graphic/mark and the tagline. These all must be considered and offered to the client.
This will create more work for you, but your clients will thank you for your suggestions and effort. It also shows you have experience in the industry and care more about providing an excellent product for your client than getting their money with minimal work.
Color Options
Layout Options
Sometimes clients like to maintain the option to have the graphic/mark above or next to their company name. They might ask to see each design in both layouts. In this case, you should also be prepared to provide the final logo in both formats.
Clients may also desire to have the graphic/mark alone and/or the logo without the tagline. You must also provide the color variations the client requires for each of these layout options.
Note: Make sure you adjust spacing and centering when you remove the tagline. Sometimes clients will like the option to change the tagline or add one. In this situation, leave space for a tagline (i.o.w. don't adjust spacing if removing a tagline).
File Formats...What Are They Good For?
Once you and your client have decided on the file formats they will need, you have to make sure each color/layout option is saved in each file format.
Below is a graphic showing different vector and raster file formats, which formats are industry standards, and which are best for specific situations. (Click the image for a larger version.)
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| AI = Adobe Illustrator EPS = Encapsulated PostScript |
The above graphic does not supply all the answers, but it is a great place to start. Most clients will not even need to know the differences between vector and raster files (though you should). This is simply a quick, straightforward explanation of the most popular file types graphic designers provide their clients.
