Avantpage - FAQ About DTP

What is multilingual desktop publishing (DTP)?
Multilingual desktop publishing—also referred to as formatting or typesetting—is the process of reproducing an existing document in foreign languages while preserving the look, feel, and meaning of the original design through a publishing program such as QuarkXpress, Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, etc.

When would I need multilingual desktop publishing (DTP)?
Most computer systems are not equipped with the fonts needed to handle most foreign scripts such as Arabic, Farsi, Cambodian, Russian, etc. Even if you have the correct fonts, special issues arise that only an experienced multilingual desktop publisher knows how to resolve quickly. For instance, would you recognize where to break up strings of characters? Could you identify an orphaned Cambodian period?

Do I provide the translated documents?
You can provide us with translated text or we can complete the translation for you.

Will the source and target documents be exact mirrors?
Yes—if you want them to be. We can also localize the target document so that it is culturally appealing to your target audience.

Can you handle non-Roman fonts?
Yes, please refer to our list of complete languages http://avantpage.com/languages and applications/index.php.

How will I be able to display non-Roman fonts?
If your computer systems do not have non-Roman fonts, you will not be able to view foreign fonts. However, we can provide you with a print-ready PDF of your final formatted document that you can send directly to your commercial printer. You can also request EPS outlines of the foreign language text to manipulate in a publishing application at a later date.

Will I be able to edit non-Roman text?
Only if your system has the foreign-language fonts or if you have the text outlined as an EPS.

What is the DTP process?
Upon client approval, your project manager sends your design files to an experienced DTP artist that has been trained by our resident DTP expert Luis Miguel (CEO, Avantpage). If your documents need to be localized for a foreign audience, they will be sent to a DTP artist in the target country. Once the documents are formatted, two internal reviews check that nonlinguistic standards are met. If we are responsible for the translation, our translator will examine the formatted documents prior to sending it as a “first proof” to you. We will incorporate any revisions until you are completely satisfied. At the end, we will deliver a print-ready PDF or your final art files.

Are there preparatory steps to take?
Yes. If you know you are designing a document to be translated later, leave plenty of white space for expanding languages. Avoid using text-embedded graphics or symbols that substitute for words or meaning. Use simple fonts common to both Macs and PCs. Please contact us for tips on using audience-appropriate colors and images.

Do you use Windows PCs or Macs?
We use both Windows PCs and Macs. Typically, the highest quality output is performed on a Mac.

What is your quality- assurance process?
Quality assurance is our promise of excellence. All DTP projects receive our attention through a three-tiered process—formatting, micro proofing, macro proofing—that ensures completeness, correctness, and consistency. For more on our process, please visit our quality assurance page.

Do you have an FTP site?
Yes. Please contact your project manager for more info.