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Most designs do not operate in isolation and many of the elements developed for one can or will be required for further projects. It is essential to create electronic assets that are reusable for future use – both known projects and unknown possibilities.
Logos, illustrations and photographs are common elements that require planning to create assets that are able to be used in a variety of ways. The resolution of any pixel based file will determine the largest possible size that this type of file can be successfully enlarged to. Large format material such as posters, signage or display installations will require files of a suitable dimension and resolution, otherwise the results will be less than expected and desired. (See Pixel vs Vector section for more information)
A general rule for pixel content is to initially create at the largest size possible. This size will be determined by software capability, available computer memory (and operating speed) and also creative constraints. (See Image Resolution for more information)
For logos, illustrations and charts the best choice will often be to use a ‘vector’ drawing program. Vector based software will produce scalable files that can be used at any size and also offer the ability for easy colour and format editing for content variation and other uses. Vector files can quickly specify ‘spot’ colours to support corporate colour schemes and produce very small file sizes for electronic distribution.
Planning projects to allow for correct output and flexibility of use, will help to maximise the initial expense for the creation of key elements and provide files that are able to meet the needs of different future requirements.
