We have observed many artwork errors occurring because the artwork process has continued despite the fact that a previous stage of the process has not been fully completed.
A typical artwork change management process will divide the development of new or changed artwork, and it’s subsequent implementation, into a number of logical steps. Ensuring that there are clear control points in the process that must be fully completed before proceeding is a useful way to minimise this risk.
Typical control points might include:
• Approval of the definition of the change requirement.
• Approval of the artwork.
• Approval of any printer proofs.
• Approval of packaging components for use.
• Batch release to ensure correct version of artwork used.
Look for evidence of clear control points in the process when auditing artwork capabilities. We would suggest that these control points should include the requirement for the appropriate group of stakeholders to sign that they are happy to proceed.