Printing a thesis is the last hurdle that marks the end of an intensive period. Because you need to turn in your thesis before a set deadline, it is important to know beforehand what lead time you will have to keep in mind for the printing process. In this blog post, we will explain the various steps that make up the printing process, including its lead time. You will know exactly what to expect and how much time you will need.
Do you want to have your thesis printed soon?
Download our information booklet for more information.
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What steps precede the printing process?
There are two steps to complete before your manuscript is ready for printing: the offer phase and the design phase.
You can start the offer phase early on. Requesting an offer not only gives you insight into the cost of printing your thesis. It also gives you some idea of what it takes, what you can expect and how you feel about the printing company you might be entrusting to print your life’s work. The importance of the latter should not be underestimated. You are releasing your thesis out into the world. Feeling like everything will be okay is very helpful during this tense, exciting period.
It goes without saying that the design phase comes before the printing phase. The design concerns both the cover – front, back and spine – and the interior of your thesis. Perhaps you already have specific ideas or wishes and all that’s left to do is execute your vision. Or perhaps you only have a vague notion of what you want and how your thesis should look, and want to leave it up to the designer to bring everything to life. Perhaps you have no clue what you want! Everything has to look clean and professional, of course, but how?! You want to leave it up to someone far more creative than you to worry about.
Whatever the case may be, the graphic designer you choose will have a major impact on the final look of your thesis. That is why it is a good idea to find a graphic designer well in advance. It is important to make sure the person is the right fit for you and that they will make sure to block out enough time in their future schedule to work on your thesis when the time comes.
Did you know that Gildeprint can also handle the design of your thesis? Our in-house professionals and those in our extensive network can turn your thesis into an eye-catching masterpiece. The design phase takes two to three weeks.
Time for the printing phase!
Is the design phase complete? Did you submit your final changes? Your thesis is now ready for printing.
The printing process is structured as follows:
Step 1: initiate order
Once we receive your files (from you or your graphic designer), we will initiate the process within two working days.
Step 2: inspect files
Our professionals start by inspecting your files (both the cover and the interior). They check if the margins are set correctly, the quality of the images is up to par, and so on.
Step 3: print proof
Three or four working days after we receive your files, we will send you a print proof in the mail. It is essential that you inspect this print proof thoroughly!
Step 4: process corrections
During your inspection, you may discover minor issues that need to be corrected. The graphic designer or you will implement these final corrections during step 4.
Step 5: approval
You will receive another proof, this time as a PDF file via email. Are you completely satisfied? If so, you will then officially approve the file and we will begin production of your thesis.
Step 6: delivery
You will receive your printed thesis at the address you selected within seven working days of granting approval. This is a moment to remember!
Lead time
The process outlined above – from submission of the print files to the delivery of your printed thesis – takes two to three weeks.
Including the design phase, you will need to set aside up to a month and a half for the design and printing of your thesis.
Tip: always reserve some extra time in your schedule. This will give you peace of mind, especially while you are inspecting the files. Remember: haste is the enemy of perfection.
Do you want to have your thesis printed soon?
Download our information booklet for more information.
Request the information book