Publications Department

The publications department comprises a writer/editor, designer, and production manager, who collaborate with university clients to produce various types of publications: brochures, posters, informational sheets, newsletters, etc. The department does the bulk of work on the Admissions Viewbook (as well as other recruitment pieces) and the Alumni magazine. Except for printing and an occasional freelance piece, no outside vendors are used.

We have an overall fundamental principle: the look and content of university publications is a key factor in UMD's drive for a) recognition as a pre-eminent university, and b) greater awareness of our superior programs and faculty.

We strategize with university departments on defining goals and identifying the most effective way to reach an audience. Each staff person has extensive experience in academic, studio, and corporate settings. We work exclusively with university clients to help produce informational and promotional materials that communicate messages clearly and effectively, while enhancing the perception and position of the university.

For many projects, we work with a client from the conceptual stage to the actual printing. On some, smaller projects, we assist at only one or two steps of the process.

In most cases, a client supplies basic, essential information, as the publications department lacks staff to do substantive research. For example, a department seeking a student recruitment brochure provides information on curriculum, faculty, and/or special programs it wants to highlight. The writer and designer work with that information, and with the department, to determine how best to present it. Responsibility for providing material is decided during planning sessions.

Many departments prefer to write and design their own publications. It is still critical, however, that both copy and design be reviewed by the publications staff and that suggestions for revisions be welcomed.

The publications staff gears copy and design to the prospective audience. Our overriding goal is straightforward: inform and impress the proposed recipient of any publication. We believe that a collaborative approach, with each participant drawing on his/her field of expertise, results in the best product.

Our writer/editor can write, edit, proofread, and check proofs; the client is also asked to read and "sign off" on copy. Our designers develop a creative direction and lay out the publication. Our production specialist makes the necessary arrangements with printers and other vendors. We can coordinate the work of photographers, and oversee the printing process to keep the project on schedule and within budget.

Effective, well-written, and attractive publications demand a series of steps that require considerable time. Because of the department's small size, we request considerable lead time for projects.

Rachel Cocroft - designer
X8822

Diane Hartnett-writer/editor
x8014

Michael Mahoney - production manager
X8013

Kathy Beals -
X 8015