Print production managers oversee the production of printed or published materials from start to finish. They work in various types of print production facilities and are responsible for managing multiple projects, working with external vendors, and ensuring quality control.
A print production manager monitors and manages the production of printed or published materials from inception to completion. There are many different types of print production manager positions, depending on the type of print production facility. Responsibilities for each of these types of printing facilities vary. Some print production managers have an understanding of printers and how they work. Others know desktop publishing, prepress software programs, design principles and how to work with outside vendors.
Print Production Managers work in basic print shops, complete independent production facilities and in-house corporate print departments. In a print shop, the print production manager is the person who completes the individual print jobs, estimates costs and oversees the print job through final delivery. A working knowledge of different types of desktop publishing and prepress software may be required, depending on the individual services offered by the print shop. Some printers have their own staff in place to handle these responsibilities. Other printers use third-party providers for these services. In both cases, a production manager is responsible for quality, accuracy and on-time delivery.
In an independent production facility or in-house print department, the print production manager may have additional responsibilities, as these types of facilities often provide all print and production services. Concept, copywriting, design, production layout, pre-press preparation, final printing and even mail distribution are handled under one roof. In this type of print production facility, production manager roles require a broad understanding of the various processes required to take a project from the initial stages through to final product and delivery. In some cases, the print production manager is responsible for consulting with staff photographers and illustrators.
Working with external suppliers is one of the key roles of print production managers. The level of work provided by these external vendors must meet the high level of quality required in a print production facility. Interpersonal skills, patience and the ability to communicate accurate information are essential when working with outside vendors such as designers, artists and photographers.
Managing multiple projects at different stages of completion can be one of the most challenging aspects of a print production manager’s job. This position requires the ability to work with many different departments or sections and keep them on individual schedules while maintaining a master production schedule that meets all deadlines. Quality control is another responsibility of the print production manager. Working under deadline pressure, quality must be maintained throughout the entire process. The production manager will likely be responsible for hiring the best people for each individual task and firing those who cannot produce a high level of quality.
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