Most people probably already know the basics about brochures, but in the world of publicity, there are many types of printed materials that fall under this category. Producing a brochure can sound like a daunting task, but it is actually very easy when the proper steps are followed.

The most familiar style of brochure is called a "tri-fold," which is:
An 8½ × 11 piece of paper,
folded in thirds,
containing pictures and text, and a
self-mailing label on the back.

This is one of the easiest types of brochures to produce. In fact, almost any graphics software (i.e. Microsoft Publisher, Microsoft Works) will include shortcuts on how to create a tri-fold brochure. However, brochures can take on many shapes and sizes, and serve many purposes.

Brochure Production – Six Steps:

  1. Clearly define the purpose and strategy
  2. Organize and define the concept
  3. Write the copy
  4. Design the layout, choose a font, visuals, paper, space and color
  5. Produce and print
  6. Distribute

Step #1 - DEFINE THE PURPOSE AND STRATEGY

Decide why a brochure is needed and what message the organization wishes to convey. The purpose should be stated in a simple sentence and the writer should be able to clearly answer the following questions:

Who is the audience? Who should read this brochure?

Is the organization trying to reach current or potential students, community or business leaders, etc? Remember which groups the organization chose as target audiences. While the focus for each brochure may be different, the organization's overall mission should be kept in mind at all times.

What does the organization want to accomplish?

Does the organization want to increase class attendance or educate the community about a program? Use the information to define a tone:

What kind of brochures has your organization produced…for what purpose? Are they persuasive, informational or educational?