A useful artwork handover tells you which file to use, where to use it and how to arrange the next update.
The final design should arrive with instructions that fit the material you've commissioned.
For an Adelaide business, that might mean a brochure for a local printer, a proposal template you edit yourself or artwork for your website.
I personally deliver graphic design, and I agree the handover contents around the specific project.
Use this checklist when reviewing completed work, with the written scope beside it.
Download the artwork handover worksheet (CSV) to record file uses, specifications and approved versions.
If you're preparing the project instead, start with the logo and brand identity brief.
Check the deliverables against the agreed scope
List each item you're receiving and its intended use.
For a brochure, record the size, page count and whether you need a print edition, a digital edition or both.
For a template, record the application you'll use to edit it and which parts should be changeable.
The handover should make those uses clear through the file names and the accompanying notes.
| Deliverable | Intended use | Agreed version | Checked by |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brochure | Print or digital distribution | Size, pages and edition | Named approver |
| Business card | Your selected printer | Front, back and contact details | Named approver |
| Proposal template | Routine business editing | Application and editable areas | Person using it |
| Website artwork | Agreed page or section | Dimensions and supplied format | Website contact |
| Presentation | On-screen presentation | Slide size and application | Person presenting |
Add only the materials that belong to your actual project.
Separate working files from ready-to-use exports
Ask for a short file guide explaining the purpose of each supplied format.
A ready-to-use export is the version you send to its intended destination, such as a print supplier or website editor.
An editable working file is used to change the design in the relevant application.
The scope should say whether working files are included and which software you'll need to use them.
Keep a copy of the approved export alongside the working version so there's a clear reference for later edits.
| File question | What to record |
|---|---|
| Which file goes to the printer? | Exact file name and supplier instructions |
| Which file goes on the website? | Exact export, dimensions and destination |
| Which file can I edit? | Application, version requirements and editable content |
| Which file is the approved reference? | Final version, approval date and approver |
| Where are the supporting assets? | Location of included images, logos and notes |
Confirm print requirements with the supplier
Request your printer's specifications before the final print export is prepared.
Record the finished size, bleed requirements, colour settings, accepted PDF specification and any marks the supplier requests.
Bleed extends artwork beyond the trim boundary, and trim marks indicate the intended cut position, as explained in Adobe's printer marks and bleed guidance.
The amount and export settings should follow the requirements of the printer handling your job.
Include a physical proof or supplier proof in the approval process when that's part of the production arrangement.
Check fold positions, page order, contact details and the material at its intended reading size.
The design quote and print-production arrangement should identify who's approving production and placing the order.
Review the artwork in its actual setting
Open the digital export where customers will use it.
For a website image, review the agreed page on mobile and desktop.
For a digital document, check the text, page order and any agreed clickable links.
For a presentation, view it at the intended screen proportions and check the slides containing the most information.
A print export and a digital export may have different requirements, so label their purposes clearly.
The website design service can connect supplied artwork to the page layout when the website is part of the project.
Record fonts, images and future editing arrangements
Ask which fonts, photographs and illustrations are used, together with any licensing information that applies to your intended use.
Record whether your business needs its own licence to edit the working file or use a font in a particular application.
Keep the supplied usage notes with the artwork rather than treating the file extension as evidence of permission.
For an editable template, test a normal update yourself, such as changing a contact detail or replacing a paragraph.
Write down which layout elements should stay consistent and how to request a larger change.
If the project includes an identity system, keep the relevant brand guidelines alongside these handover notes.
Keep a clear approval and update record
Use a version name that identifies the material and approved edition, such as brochure-approved-2026-10-06.pdf.
Store the approved files in a business-controlled location with a backup arrangement that suits your existing systems.
Keep draft feedback separately so the current release is easy to identify.
| Final check | Your record |
|---|---|
| Wording and contact details | Confirmed by the business approver |
| Deliverables | Matched to the written scope |
| Print export | Matched to supplier specifications |
| Digital export | Reviewed in the intended setting |
| Editable files | Opened and a routine update tested, where included |
| Usage notes | Fonts and supplied assets recorded |
| Approved release | File names, date and approver saved |
| Future changes | Contact, process and scope arrangements recorded |
Graphic-design pricing depends on the materials and deliverables agreed in the proposal.
Use the project planner to describe the artwork you need, including whether you'll edit it yourself or send it to a production supplier.
I'll confirm the design scope, review stages and handover files in writing.