6 Myths about Packaging Artwork Management

Packaging artwork management is a crucial aspect of branding and product marketing, as it helps to convey the value and uniqueness of a product to potential customers. Despite its importance, there are still many misconceptions and misunderstandings about what packaging artwork management entails. In this blog post, we will dispel six common myths about packaging artwork management and provide a clear and concise understanding of what it entails. Whether you are a packaging professional, brand manager, or just starting out, this blog post will provide you with valuable insights and best practices that will help you to succeed in the world of packaging artwork management.

1. Artwork can be created in any software

There are specific software tools and formats required for print production, and using other software tools may result in inaccuracies, inconsistencies, or formatting issues when the artwork is prepared for print.

For example, some print production processes may require the use of specific colour management tools, such as Pantone colour palettes, to ensure accurate and consistent colour reproduction. Creating artwork in software that does not support these tools may result in colour inaccuracies or inconsistencies when the artwork is prepared for print.

By using a centralised system for packaging artwork management like MYPACKBRAIN which provides specific software tools and formats required for print production, businesses can ensure that their packaging artwork is accurate, consistent, and ready for print production.

2. It only involves creating artwork designs

Packaging artwork management is a complex and multifaceted process that involves a wide range of tasks, and requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach to achieve the best results.

It involves a wide range of tasks, including:

• Collaborating with designers to create high-quality and on-brand packaging designs
• Ensuring that the designs meet legal and regulatory requirements, such as labelling and safety regulations
• Coordinating with printers to ensure that the designs are printed accurately and efficiently
• Overseeing the production process to ensure that the final product meets quality standards and customer expectations
• Maintaining and updating design templates, libraries, and brand guidelines
  

3. Each artwork is created only once

Packaging artwork often needs to be updated or modified over time to reflect changes in branding, regulations, or consumer preferences.

Brands and companies are constantly evolving, and their packaging artwork must evolve with them. This may involve updates to colour schemes, logos, packaging design, and labelling information to reflect new regulations or to keep pace with changes in consumer preferences.

It is important to note that making changes to packaging artwork is not a one-time event, but rather a continuous process that requires ongoing attention and updates. This is why it is crucial to have a robust artwork management system in place to ensure that changes are made efficiently and effectively, and that all necessary approvals and certifications are obtained before the updated artwork is released for production.

4. The first design submitted is always the best

Design is a creative process requiring input from multiple stakeholders. The first design is often just a starting point, and multiple iterations may be necessary to create the most effective packaging artwork.

It is common for the initial design to be reviewed and modified based on feedback from design teams, marketing teams, legal teams, and others. The process of refining the design may involve making changes to the colour scheme, the placement of elements on the packaging, the typeface, and other design elements.

It is important to understand that the design process is iterative, and that multiple designs may be developed before the final design is approved. Effective artwork management requires an open and collaborative approach to design, in which multiple perspectives are taken into account and the design is refined based on feedback and input from all relevant stakeholders. By taking this approach, organisations can ensure that the final design is the most effective and meets all of the necessary requirements.

5. Artwork approval is a one-time process

Approval is an ongoing process that happens at different stages of the production cycle, to ensure consistency and accuracy.

There are typically multiple stages of approval that occur, from initial concept and design, to final artwork and print production. These stages may involve different stakeholders, such as designers, marketing teams, regulatory teams, and print production experts, and may require multiple rounds of review and approval to ensure artwork meets the required standards for quality and consistency. Throughout the production cycle, the artwork may need to be reviewed and approved for compliance with branding guidelines, regulatory requirements, and consumer preferences, among other factor

6.  It is only for large businesses

Small businesses can benefit from effective packaging artwork management as well, to improve brand consistency and reduce errors.

Packaging artwork management is a critical component of the overall branding and marketing strategy for any business, regardless of size. By implementing effective packaging artwork management processes, small businesses ensure their packaging artwork is accurate, consistent, and in line with their branding and marketing goals. This results in improved brand recognition and credibility as well as the packaging accurately representing the product and the brand.

Effective packaging artwork management helps small businesses reduce errors and minimise the risk of costly mistakes. For example, by using a centralised platform for managing and organizing digital assets and packaging artwork, small businesses ensure the most up-to-date and accurate versions of artwork are used in all marketing and promotional materials. It ensures the packaging meets regulatory requirements, and that any necessary modifications or updates are made in a timely and efficient manner.

Maximising the impact of branding and marketing efforts, and building a strong and recognisable brand are not the only benefits brand owners get by investing in effective packaging artwork management. Learn about more benefits.

7. Artwork management is a low-priority task

Packaging artwork is one of the first things a consumer sees when they encounter a product, and it can have a powerful impact on their perception of the product and their decision to purchase it.

The design and management of packaging artwork is critical to the success of a product and should not be overlooked or under-prioritised.

Effective artwork management requires careful planning, collaboration between multiple teams, and ongoing attention to detail. It is a complex and time-consuming process that requires appropriate resources, including skilled design and marketing professionals, legal experts, and production teams. By giving appropriate attention and resources to the artwork management process, organisations can ensure that their packaging artwork is effective, efficient, and compliant with all relevant regulations. This can help to maximise the impact of the packaging on consumer perceptions and ultimately lead to increased sales and success for the product.

Curious about which digital solutions would help your business in effective packaging artwork management? Contact one of our experts to get advice tailored to your business, or start from exploring the solutions for brand owners, retailers, or pharmaceuticals.