WHAT - OFFERINGS

What exactly does PSB do?
Do you produce more than just paper printed products?
Do you produce Radio and TV commercials?
Can you also purchase media air-time for our radio and television spots?
Why is your cost so low?
Can you help us with our web page?
Can you personalize our letters with each customer's name?
What sort of discounts do you offer?
How can PSB's mailhouse save me money on postage charges?
Can we order our posters and banners mounted from you?
Do you offer copywriting services?
What are your custom capabilities?
What is the difference between your digital Canon "Fiery" and your digital "Indigo" flyer/mini poster?
What is the difference between your lithographic printing and your digital press?
What does PSB stand for?
How long have you been in business?
Are you too big to handle our business?
Are you too small to handle our business?

HOW - MECHANICS

How does this all work?
How will I be updated on the progress of my project?
How long does it typically take to produce a custom marketing piece?
Why do we have to fill out so much paper work for approval on each project? Can't I just tell
you over the phone?
Can I change the headline and body copy of a catalog design?
What can be modified on catalog designs?
Can you send me a specific design number sample?
What's the difference between design and production time?
What makes a project "custom"?
What's the "set up" charge for on posters?
Why can't all of the collateral pieces for a specific campaign be shipped together?
Why do I have to pay more for jobs that I need in 5 days?
Why does PSB pay 50% of shipping charges?
What do I need to do to place my order?
How do I fill out the Shipping Instructions?
Can I have the order shipped to my branches and to my mail house?
What constitutes a "rush" and incurs an additional charge?
Why do you fax my proof to me with and without screens?
Are you going to have electronic approval someday so I won't have to fill out so many forms?
Are you going to have "smart shipping instructions" so I don't have to fill out the same information in the "ship to" fields every time?
Can I choose different qualities/types of paper for my projects other than what is listed in your catalog?
Can I turn your designs into a product of another size even though it may be horizontal and your catalog shows it as vertical?
What do you need from me to get started?
Why do I have to pay an hourly production charge? Don't you just use the SourceBook design number that I choose?
Do all projects have the same time lines?
What is the difference between production/layout time, printed material design, and Digital Media design?
What is the difference between matte and glossy paper?
What is the difference between cover and book stock?
If we miss our approval dates will that delay the delivery of my project?
Why do I have to fill out so many forms? Can't you just keep them on file?
Why do I have to approve my project at least six days before delivery?
I can't open the pdf you sent. Can you resend it?
There's something wrong with this file. Can you resend it?
What is the standard timeline for a catalog insert?

Acceptable File Formats

How do I e-mail my text or logo to you?
How should I send my data files to your mailhouse?
What are your artwork requirements, i.e credit cards, logos, etc?
Why doesn't your CD-ROM work on my computer

SourceBook Catalogs (PSB Idea Books)

What are SourceBook catalogs?
What if I don't have all of your SourceBooks?
Can I just get your most recent SourceBook catalog? Aren't the others just replacements of the old catalog?
Aren't your SourceBook catalogs just "stock designs"?
What's the difference between your Quarterly Promotion booklets and your SourceBook catalogs?
Do I need all the catalogs or can I get what I need from just one?
Are your catalogs applicable to those of us outside the financial services industry?
Why do I have to sign an agreement just to request a SourceBook?
Are your catalog images pre-printed?

WHAT- OFFERINGS

What exactly does PSB do?
Wow. The short answer is: we're a marketing services provider that offers concept, design, and printing all in one place. But the reality is that we produce all kinds of marketing materials ranging from a variety of direct mail vehicles to radio spots. Our more common items have been:

Annual Reports
Brochures
Web Graphics
E-mail Push
Lobby Posters
Banners
Direct Mail Letters
Self Mailers
Postcards
and more...
(back)

Do you produce more than just paper printed products?
We do. We have produced radio spots, advertising specialties, e-mail campaigns, in-lobby videos and CD-ROMs.(back)

Do you produce Radio and TV commercials?
We produce both custom and syndicated television and radio spots. PSB has also written and produced award-winning custom film commercials. But what really makes us unique is our ability to produce coordinated print elements as well - everything from a matching direct mail campaign to all of the in-branch support materials. (back)

Can you also purchase media air-time for our radio and television spots?
This is something we think is usually best handled locally. Market pricing and availability vary widely throughout the country. While some media buys can be simple and inexpensive, other markets can get more complicated and expensive. (back)

Why is your cost so low?
Because there are no middlemen to add mark-up, we can offer real value to our customers. Everything is done right here in our 45,000 square foot facility. You can pick and choose from a variety of services like: concepting, design, copywriting, photography, digital or lithographic printing, and mail house services. (back)

Can you help us with our web page?
Yes. We can produce web graphics, general designs and promotional layouts, although we do not offer web site hosting/functionality. (back)

Can you personalize our letters with each customer's name?
Yes. We have a number of digital processes designed to completely tailor each piece right to your target audience using variable text data. We can even customize photographs and other imagery along with your text to maximize your one-to-one marketing efforts. (back)

What sort of discounts do you promote?
Although PSB's pricing is already very attractive, we offer a number of "specials" throughout the year. In a nutshell, you can save between hundreds and thousands of dollars at PSB by planning ahead and committing "up-front" to projects. Here's how:

Our Frequency Purchase Program (or FPP) plan can save you up to 20%. All you have to do is commit to 4, 8, or 12 time printings of your statement Inserts, Postcards, Letters or LetterChecks in a 12 month period. The higher your frequency, the greater your savings percentage. (see our product & services guide for details)

How can PSB's mailhouse save me money on postage charges?
Our experienced mailhouse team is well versed on the latest US Postal Service regulations and available discounts, which allows us to pass those savings on to you, our client. In addition we can help you avoid shipping charges back to your facility by mailing your pieces directly from our mailhouse. PSB never charges a mark-up on postal rates. (back)

Can we order our posters and banners mounted from you?
Over the years we have found that a significant amount of damage occurs to pre-mounted posters during shipping, regardless of the carrier. Consequently, we recommend that clients have them mounted locally to avoid damage. (back)

Do you offer copywriting services?
Yes, we offer several different options to handle your copy needs. Whether its a brochure, annual report, or even a statement insert, we can handle it. (back)

What are your custom capabilities?
You name it - we can do it. If you need large run 8-color capabilities, we're ready. If you need short run, highly personalized printing, we're you're source. Large or small, sophisticated or simple - PSB is your solution. (back)

What is the difference between your digital Canon "Fiery" and your digital "Indigo" flyer/mini poster?
While both are full color processes, the Canon Fiery is a toner-based system and the Indigo is an ink-based press. Color rendition and overall quality is superior on the Indigo press. (back)

What does PSB stand for?
Originally it was an acronym for "Printing Service Bureau," but carries no meaning for us today. (back)

How long have you been in business?
We started in 1991. (back)

Are you too big to handle our business?
We like to say that no project is too small or too large for us and that's because we pride ourselves on personalized service. Your service representative is responsible for "seeing you through" from the beginning to the end of your project. Answering questions, keeping you posted on the status and making recommendations is all part of our consultative service approach. Our unique and strict process keeps details from slipping through the cracks and keeps your job on track. We offer one point of contact for you whether you need more hand holding at the beginning or are a seasoned pro who just wants the status - we adapt our style to meet your needs. (back)

Are you too small to handle our business?
We've been handling both large and small clients now for over 10 years. And along the way, we've learned a few things. We know that every client is different and that their working styles and budgets are varied. We have extensive experience producing large projects and have both the equipment and staff to back that up. (back)

HOW - MECHANICS

How does this all work?
We pride ourselves on being able to meet the needs of our customers, so each job is unique and varied. If you need copywriting - we can provide it. If you need a redesigned logo- we can do that too. PSB can concept, design, print and mail your project right here from our facility. You can mix and match any service that your project requires. We can "do it all" or provide only the select services that you need per project

Typically the process works something like this:

1. initial client contact via phone or website
2. client identifies the project type (direct mail letter, brochure, etc.)
3. client selects concepts from one of our SourceBooks or asks for an original concept from scratch
4. client provides copy or asks for our copywriting services
5. graphic designs are customized to the client
6. client approves layout and design (proofs provided as pdfs, fax and color copies)
7. client provides confidentially maintained database
8. project is printed
9. PSB Mail House fulfills and mails the project for the client
10. client reports a great response rate
(back)

How will I be updated on the progress of my project?
We send an Acrobat Reader "pdf" (portable document format) and hard copy with each revision. (back)

How long does it typically take to produce a custom marketing piece?
We turnaround projects very quickly at PSB because every step is completed on-site. However each project is unique and may require unforeseen adaptations. We commit to a 10-15 business day turnaround when all client approval deadlines are met. (back)

Why do we have to fill out so much paper work for approval on each project? Can't I just tell you over the phone?
This is really designed as a safeguard for you and your organization. Written approvals at each step of a project help keep everyone on the same page. Mistakes are eliminated, costs are maintained, and deadlines are hit when communication is clear and memories don't have to be so heavily relied upon. (back)

Can I change the headline and body copy of a catalog design?
Yes! That's the idea. We only offer headlines to spur your imagination. Nothing is pre-printed at PSB, so every design is ready for quick and easy digital manipulation. We will customize any concept to your specifications and copy requirements. (back)

What can be modified on catalog designs?
Anything you want. You can offer more detailed information, or a special offer, maybe a second offer, whatever you'd like.In fact we encourage you to mix & match and completely customize a design to fit your organization. Combine images, delete images, or provide your own, whatever your needs - we're ready and willing to accommodate. (back)

Can you send me a specific design number sample?
Because all of our design samples are digitally stored (not pre-printed), we do not maintain print samples of each and every design. We can however provide you with a sample packet that more than likely will contain something very close to what you are interested in. (back)

What's the difference between design and production time?
"Design time" refers to the time spent on project research, brainstorming, or developing a concept. "Production time" or page layout is the time spent on a project creating the actual layout and fine-tuning copy changes. (back)

What makes a project "custom"?
Any job that requires design adaptations to an existing SourceBook concept qualifies as "custom." Dropping in an organization's specific copy, logo and headline does not constitute a custom job. Moving or changing photographs or illustrations, does move a job into the custom category. (back)

What's the "set up" charge for on posters?
The charge represents the time spent preparing the file for large image or digital output. (back)

Why can't all of the collateral pieces for a specific campaign be shipped together?
Because various collateral pieces are shaped and sized differently, many do not ship safely together. The ability to tightly pack materials prevents most kinds of shipping damage. For example, shipping rolled posters in the same box as thousands of brochures would probably result in damage to the poster. (back)

Why do I have to pay more for jobs that I need in 5 days?
Most companies charge anywhere from 50% to 400% for rush service. We keep our rush charges significantly below the industry average as a value added service to our clients. The reality of the situation is that it costs us more in labor to keep staff on at overtime charges in the evenings or on weekends, so we must pass a portion of that cost on to our clients requiring rushes. (back)

Why does PSB pay 50% of shipping charges?
This has always seemed a fair way to share the sometimes burdensome cost of shipping. We have taken it upon ourselves to make this offer for all our clients. Since we're not always located right next door, we wanted to make sure you don't incur any additional costs by choosing to work with us. (back)

What do I need to do to place my order?
There are several ways you can place an order with us. You can call us and talk with an account representative. You can e-mail (mail@psbonline.com) us an order or you can go to our website (www.psbonline.com) and fill out an order form that can either be electronically sent to us with the push of a button or printed out and faxed (949.465.0777) to us. (back)

How do I fill out the Shipping Instructions?
Click here to download a pdf sample. (back)

Can I have the order shipped to my branches and to my mail house?
Yes. We will ship wherever you'd like us to. (back)

What constitutes a "rush" and incurs an additional charge?
Most companies charge anywhere from 50% to 400% for rush service. We keep our rush charges significantly below the industry average as a value added service to our clients. The reality of the situation is that it costs us more in labor to keep staff on at overtime charges in the evenings or on weekends, so we must pass a portion of that cost on to our clients requiring rushes. (back)

Why do you fax my proof to me with and without screens?
General speaking, proofing text is a little easier to do without screens (graphics). Your "with screens" proof, of course, makes it possible to proof your entire piece with all elements represented. (back)

Are you going to have electronic approval someday so I won't have to fill out so many forms?
We are in the process of developing this capability. The technology should be available soon. (back)

Are you going to have "smart shipping instructions" so I don't have to fill out the same information in the "ship to" fields every time?
This process is also in development. We expect to have this capability functional in the near future. (back)

Can I choose different qualities/types of paper for my projects other than what is listed in your catalog?
Yes. We have a variety of papers, but some of our specials and timelines are specific to paper types. Call for more information. (back)

Can I turn your designs into a product of another size even though it may be horizontal and your catalog shows it as vertical?
Yes. Each concept is completely flexible in its design to allow for most any format. We create entire campaigns that mix formats all the time. (back)

What do you need from me to get started?
Just some basic information about your organization, what your project should look like and a credit card or completion of a credit application gets you started. (back)

Why do I have to pay an hourly production charge? Don't you just use the SourceBook design number that I choose?
We do use the SourceBook design of your choice, but production work is often required to prepare your job with your copy and specifics. We only begin charging during the second hour. The first hour is free. (back)

Do all projects have the same time lines?
No, more involved projects require more design, production, printing and bindery time. (back)

What is the difference between production/layout time, printed material design, and Digital Media design?
Production time is for simple page layout, text manipulation, and typesetting. Design time refers to the time spent on a project brainstorming or developing a concept. Digital Media is defined as design related work for on-line applications, artwork (logos), or materials that are not going to be printed at PSB. (back)

What is the difference between matte and glossy paper?
Gloss paper is shiny and reflective, reproducing photography in a brighter, snappier way, while matte paper is much more dull and flat. Matte is generally recommended for applications and mailers. Gloss paper is best used for brochures and flyers. (back)

What is the difference between cover and book stock?
Cover stock is heavier and typically something that would be used as a "cover" on a magazine, while "book" stock is thinner and more akin to the pages of the magazine. (back)

If we miss our approval dates will that delay the delivery of my project?
Yes! To keep your project on schedule, it is essential that you hit all of your approval dates. (back)

Why do I have to fill out so many forms? Can't you just keep them on file?
We do keep your information on file, but unfortunately most of our client information changes quite regularly. In order to make sure that everything is up to date and correct, we ask each time. (back)

Why do I have to approve my project at least six days before delivery?
In order to ensure that your project is completed on time and the necessary quality controls are maintained, we must allow enough time for the process. (back)

I can't open the pdf you sent. Can you resend it?
Yes we can, but you might want to try a quick check first. Check and see if your copy of Acrobat Reader is functioning properly by opening another pdf you have on your desktop. If not, you may have to reload it or go to Adobe's site and download it again. (back)

There's something wrong with this file. Can you resend it?
Yes we can, but you might want to make sure you are attempting to open it with the right program. You may also want to verify that the application program is working properly with other documents. (back)

What is the standard timeline for a catalog insert?
Design time runs 2-3 days, printing another 2-3 days, and finally allow 3 days for shipping. Add your approval process into the mix and you have a completed project delivered in 10 -12 working days. (back)

Acceptable File Formats

How do I e-mail my text or logo to you?
You have several different options. First and probably the easiest route is to put your text into an MS Word® document and send it as an attachment. If you don't have MS Word, a plain text attachment will work, but you should include a printed copy, so any lost formatting can be included. (back)

You can send your logo as an eps, tif, or jpg attachment, but make sure it is a high resolution file of at least 300dpi (web graphics of 72 dpi are not of sufficient quality for printing). Our e-mail server can accept files of up to 10MBs. Larger files should be sent via our FTP server (ask your account representative for details) (back)

How should I send my data files to your mailhouse?
We can work with just about any format, but some of the more common files that we work with are: MS Excel, MS Access, any comma or tab delimited file, ASCII fixed length, or DBF files.

You must, however, send data containing any account holder information to us via our secure upload site. Call your account manager for details. (back)

What are your artwork requirements, i.e credit cards, logos, etc?
Photographs can be sent as PhotoShop® files saved as eps, tif, or jpgs. Illustrations can be sent as Illustrator® eps files. (back)

Why doesn't your CD-ROM work on my computer
Because we take advantage of advanced technology in our CD-ROM, some viewers may experience difficulty while trying to view certain segments of our program. Due to an unlimited number of hardware and software configurations available, it is impossible to diagnose why some machines cannot view certain segments of our CD. Generally speaking newer, faster computers will have less trouble processing the information. In an effort to assist those who are experiencing difficulty, we have listed some of the more basic hardware/software parameters below.

We recommend:

• Quitting all other applications before inserting the disc

• Using hardware that includes one of the following:

• an Intel Celeron processor of 166 MHz or greater
• a Pentium class processor with at least 133 MHz
• a MAC of at least 7300/120 MHz
• a 16 x or greater CD-ROM player

• Adjusting your color settings to at least 16 bit

Also, some of our clients do not have sound cards or speakers and accordingly cannot hear the programming. Some have not installed multimedia plug-ins (Quicktime, Real Player, Windows Media Player, etc.), so they may not be able to view our videos or multimedia segments.

We regret any inconvenience you may have experienced attempting to view our CD. If you have met the basic parameters above and are still experiencing difficulty, ask for help from your in-house IT staff. (back)

SourceBook Catalogs (PSB Idea Books)

What are SourceBook catalogs?
SourceBook catalogs are "idea books" featuring pre-designed, but not pre-printed marketing concepts. Visuals have already been laid out along with suggested copy and headlines in each concept. There are over 3,000 of these pre-conceived designs digitally stored and ready for client customization. (back)

What if I don't have all of your SourceBooks?
Then you haven't seen all of our designs. Let us know and we can get them to you. (back)

Can I just get your most recent SourceBook catalog? Aren't the others just replacements of the old catalog?
We have over 3,000 designs contained in multiple SourceBooks. No one book is a replacement for another and to see all 3,000 designs you'll need to order the entire set. (back)

Aren't your SourceBook catalogs just "stock designs"?
No. Although we draw from a huge library of over 100,000 images, each of our designs incorporates digital manipulation and a combination of multiple images. In addition many of our concepts utilize original photography and illustration exclusive to PSB. (back)

What's the difference between your Quarterly Promotion booklets and your SourceBook catalogs?
Our Quarterly Promotions contain timely designs geared to the seasonality of financial institution's products. Some of our classic best sellers are always combined with fresh new ideas of about 52 concepts. Our Sourcebooks are a comprehensive combination of the most common kinds of financial services products. (back)

Do I need all the catalogs or can I get what I need from just one?
We suggest getting them all, so you don't miss anything. You never know where your best idea might come from. (back)

Are your catalogs applicable to those of us outside the financial services industry?
Although geared for the financial services industry, many of our clients tell us that our designs cross over quite well to their industries with only minor headline adjustments. (back)

Why do I have to sign an agreement just to request a SourceBook?
From time to time, we have found several of our copyrighted designs used by other organizations without our permission. Our creative work is a big part of what we do here at PSB. To help reduce this unauthorized use of our original design work, we track our SourceBooks and charge non-clients who attempt to use our materials for their own gain. (back)

Are your catalog images pre-printed?
No, nothing at PSB is ever pre-printed. We print everything after you place the order and give us your specifics. Our designs are "pre-conceived" and digitally stored awaiting your customization. (back)