Tips for creating a powerful brochure

by Ray Fauteux

The best way to create a powerful and professional brochure is to stick to the basic concepts of what most people find alluring and what truly attracts them.

Sometimes the key to creating the perfect brochure is to consider the designs and creations that are already out there. When you look at a brochure that attracts your attention, ask yourself "why?" What is it about it that catches your eye and prompts you to read on?

Carefully consider the audience you are trying to reach. Choose the appropriate font that best reflects the message you are trying to give. Some fonts denote humor and some are casual or perhaps, professional. The key is to not over-do it and use more fonts than necessary. This may actually be a distraction and could draw the reader away from the message you are trying to convey.

There is a downside to using too many bars and boxes in your brochure. A few might work well, but by overdoing it, the design of your brochure might appear cluttered and unprofessional.

There are three very important words to remember when attempting to create a professional looking brochure.

"Keep it simple."

It's important to never lose sight of the message you are trying to convey. Make a point of using only what is necessary to get your message across. Graphics or other methods of adding ornamentation to your brochure might have a negative effect and actually distract the reader's attention. Every part of your brochure should contribute to making your message stand out.

If there is a very important portion of the brochure that you really want the reader to notice, then consider using brighter or larger print to make sure the most important points stand out.

If you plan on using colors in your brochure, it's important to consider a few points. First of all, black and white can be more dramatic than color if it's used properly. Secondly, the use of color will make your brochure much more expensive to create.

In this day and age, you can make a very positive statement by using recycled paper for your brochures. First of all you are giving your brochure a certain flair that will make it stand out from others and of course you will be limiting the impact on our natural resources. However, the cost of producing your brochure may increase as often recycled paper is costlier than the regular variety.

Finally, be sure to carefully proofread your creation. Remember that once the printing is done, it's too late to make changes.