AI. For some, just the sheer mention of it sends shivers down their spine and for others it's a tool that is used everyday for recipes, interior design, creating social media posts or writing blogs (not this one!).
Whether it's Gemini, ChatGPT or Claude, the possibilities are endless. In the Print industry we are seeing more and more customers designing their flyers and posters using an AI tool and we get it. Not everyone has a budget for graphic design and it's a cost effective alternative, not only saving money, but also time. It's a win, win situation - right?!
Well, yes and no. As long as we remember AI is a tool and not a replacement for an actual graphic designer. In the same way you would commission any piece of artwork, a brief is vital and as much detail as possible is needed for a desired end result. AI listens to what you ask it, but you need to set it rules and boundaries, especially when preparing artwork for print. It may provide a wonderful design incorporating every detail you wanted, but if you are wanting to produce a physical printed item, then you need it to know that.
Many times over the last few months, we have received artwork and have had to advise our customer, that the quality of the print is poor due to the AI design. Luckily we spot this in the proofing process, but when a customer wants to go ahead with the print, not only their final product, but our reputation and standards are compromised. It also causes a delay in sending the artwork to the press.
Our wonderful graphic designer Sam, has created a document demonstrating some of the issues we have experienced with ChatGPT. This is the most used tool for creative content and the one we encounter most often. She has developed a series of prompts for use, that incorporate the necessary terms needed to improve the overall result as well as a direct comparison of using the Graphic Design team at Ashley Press versus an AI generated version.
Click on the link below to access the guide. For further guidance on providing Ashley Press with artwork, visit our Artwork page.
