Publications Center

Graphics Request Process

1. Discuss your event idea(s) and timeline (the who, what, when, where, and why of your event) with your Advisor.
2. Design your flyer, making sure it meets the document requirements listed below.
3. Once it has been proofed and approved by your Advisor, send it for printing by filling out the online graphics request form. You must receive RD, Student Life or other Advisor approval and an account number before you submit your graphics request form. Account number is mandatory for use by the MCC Association Business Office for billing purposes and must be included in request.
   • Proofread your document before you submit your design for printing. The Publications Center is not responsible for the cost of reprints due to proofreading errors.
   • Save a copy of your file as a PDF and attach it to your request form. Be sure to keep a copy of your original design document (so changes can be made easily, if necessary).
   • You will need 50 copies to cover all publicity boards on all campuses.
   • If ordering handbills (4 copies per page) or half-sheets (2 copies per page) be sure to account for the number of copies per page when placing your order.
   • Help reduce waste. Order only the number of copies you truly need.
4. Allow 10 to 15 working days (2 to 3 weeks) to complete your graphics request. Time required for larger projects will be determined by job requirements. Plan your time accordingly. Remember you’ll need to budget time for any changes, printing, and for fliers to be posted on campus.
5. You will receive an email notification when your order is complete and ready for pick-up in the Publications Center (3-129).

Document Requirements

To get the most out of your flyers or other printed materials, it’s important for them to be clear, well-organized, and easy to read.

• Use MCC logos appropriately.
  • No changes can be made to official logos, and they may not be stretched or otherwise distorted.
  • Departmental logos can be used only for publicity that will be posted exclusively within MCC campuses. Any publicity that will be distributed, posted, worn, or displayed outside MCC campuses must bear the general MCC logo.
  • For more information, refer to the MCC Brand Guidelines or contact the Publications Center.
• Choose easy-to-read fonts at a size of at least 12pt.
  • Choose readable fonts. The wrong font can make text confusing and difficult to read. Limit yourself to one or two simple fonts, and avoid decorative or cursive styles.
  • Make sure your text size is at least 12pt.
  • Avoid using all caps and limit bold and italic text to only a few words at a time.
  • Don't distort fonts - stretched or crowded text is more difficult to read.
  • Body text and bulleted or numbered lists should always be left-aligned. Don’t use centered, right, or fully justified alignment for large blocks of text.
  • Choose solid backgrounds for text whenever possible. Don't place text over images or on busy patterned backgrounds.
• Choose high-contrast colors for good visibility.
  • Light text on a dark background or dark text on a light background will be easier to read than colors that are too similar.
• Keep the design clear and organized.
  • Keep your information hierarchy in mind. Highlight the most important elements by placing them first or making them larger, and group related items together.
  • Information should read top to bottom and left to right to avoid confusion.
  • Give each element space to breathe. Crowded and over-complicated designs are more difficult to read. Leave plenty of space between elements for a cleaner look.
• Proofread before submitting your design.
  • Examine your text carefully to find and correct mistakes in information, grammar, and spelling.
  • Write in clear, concise, direct sentences. Avoid unnecessary words and repetition.
  • Use spell check, but remember that it won’t catch mistakes with homonyms (they’re/their/there) or certain typos (like “he” instead of “the”).
  • It can be helpful to set your text aside (even for 15 minutes) between writing and proofing. Reading the text out loud can also help you catch mistakes you might have otherwise missed.

Printing Cost Guide

Regular paper

Used for flyers, posters, RA collage pages, handbills, booklets, business forms, newsletters and other items.

Card Stock

Used for invitations, programs, RA door decs, coupons, rack cards, tickets and other items.

17 x 22 Large Format Poster