Production Process

We have divided the process from manuscript to print into seven well distinguished phases. For each phase we have developed a tailor-made protocol, which determines the steps that need to be taken and the order in which these should be taken. This allows us to monitor the progress of the book and minimize the number of inaccuracies. We archive each phase, so we can easily revert to previous phases in the event of unexpected problems.

Submission

First we archive the files, check whether they are complete and check which platform has been used (Windows or Mac). We make sure that the fonts used are also submitted, in case the files contain non-Latin alphabets. Guidelines for submission can be found here.

Conversion

During the conversion phase, we save the submitted files as RTF, a format that resembles TeX-files, since both consist of encoded plain text files. Subsequently, the relevant layout information, such as italics and tables, is replaced by TeX codes, while the irrelevant information is removed. In this phase we also convert the non-Latin alphabets to our standardized encoding, so that we can comply with the font requirements of the publisher. For further information on conversions, see Document conversion.

Editorial support

By using the ACE system we have developed, we can effectively and accurately adjust many stylistic flaws and inconsistencies in punctuation, such as double spaces, non-matching quotation marks and parentheses, quotes within quotes, the order of quotes and punctuation, the spaces surrounding ellipses etc. In addition, we also use the ACE system to apply dashes and small caps. The system can be entirely tailored to your wishes. For further information on our editorial support, see ACE.

Encoding and layout

Quotations, headings, enumerations and such are individually encoded. These codes are translated into a graphic result in a separate text file, the layout. This method has the huge advantage that it guarantees the uniformity of series, since the same layout can be used for future volumes.

Fine-tuning

Once the text has been encoded and automatically edited, we determine the type area in order to attain the desired number of pages of the book. After this the text can be typeset. If desired, we can send a first draft (a so-called o-proof) for appraisal. Once approved, we eliminate orphans and widows and optimize the hyphenation and page breaks. Novels and other similar straightforward publications can be returned within a few days. Depending on your preferences we deliver the proofs digitally (pdf) or on paper (printed double sided on environmentally friendly paper).

Corrections

Corrections can be made on the hard copy or can be digitally applied in the pdf file. In order to prevent the corrections being susceptible to multiple interpretations, we recommend marking the corrections in red and applying the universal correction symbols. Corrections will be entered in the text files by our correctors. Afterwards we will typeset a new set of proofs. Usually, three proofs are sufficient.

End product

When the final proofs have been approved, we save the copy as a pdf file, a format that can be processed by every printer. Because we archive each publication on CD, it is possible to use the files at a later stage. We convert the files back to RTF on request, so that the text can be revised in Word for a reprint.