Pittsburgh, Pa., February 26, 2003 — The advent of the computer and desktop publishing software has empowered nearly everyone with the means to produce affordable and professional looking documents. However, when faced with overwhelming options, lack of time, or lack of knowledge, people are not able to use these tools effectively. A new primer from GATFPress, the publishing arm of the Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (GATF), assists readers in creating common, simple documents such as newsletters, booklets, brochures, and other staples of the business environment. Document Design Primer is written for the newcomer to document design, yet assumes the reader has familiarity with design software programs. “I’ve taken the approach of walking a novice through the steps of document preparation, from selecting a format to understanding layout to delivering files to the printer,” says Pamela Mortimer. The author of Document Design Primer, she is the prepress production manager of a commercial printing firm in Pennsylvania with sixteen years of experience in the graphic arts industry. Mortimer offers basic design guidelines and insights into the printing process, such as determining project budget; choosing document size, paper, and binding styles; designing documents for the mail; and identifying software needs. She also covers how to work with text and use graphics effectively. Stressing the importance of proofreading, her primer closes by providing a brief overview of what the beginner needs to be aware of when submitting a document to be printed. Special attention is also given to the elements of document development, such as identifying readers, developing topics, setting deadlines, and organizing material. This broad approach emphasizes how everything from the substrate to the content contributes to the ultimate success of a document. With 26 illustrations, Document Design Primer (ISBN 0-88362-397-8) is a 112-page, two-color, softcover text that includes a glossary of basic terms. It is available for $25 ($20 for GATF/PIA members), not including shipping. Orders may be placed by contacting GATF by phone at 800/662-3916 (U.S. and Canada) or 412/741-5733 (all other countries); fax at 412/741-0609; or online from the GAIN Bookstore. Mail orders to GATF Products, P.O. Box 1020, Sewickley, PA 15143-1020. Indicate Order No. 1737.