Desktop publishing can be defined as the job of producing printed or digital materials such as books, magazines, brochures, posters, and advertisements using a computer and software. Since it is generally carried out by using desktop computers at a desk, it is called and conceptualized as desktop publishing. Despite being a concept that we have heard more recently, desktop publishing actually appeared in 1985. This term used by Adobe, Aldus, Apple, Linotype and Quark companies also started to be expressed in the public domain. Many academics and specialists define desktop publishing as a new printing revolution.
The first Postscript developed by Adobe was an important step in recognizing pages. Later, the page setup program developed by Aldus was supported by the graphics-based operating system produced by Apple. Ultimately, postscript printers emerged. After 1992, printing services were moved to the electronic environment.
The printing press invented by Gutenberg nearly five hundred years ago has gained a new hallmark through desktop publishing. This is because desktop publishing shortens the process and requires less manpower. Printed materials, including the preliminary processes of printing, are produced in a computer-aided, electronic environment. The general view and format of texts translated and edited with desktop publishing can easily be altered.
Characteristics of Desktop Publishing
- Various types of computer software are used in desktop publishing.
- With the desktop publishing method, a large number of printed or digital publications, such as books, magazines, brochures etc., can be produced in a very short time and if documents are translated by appropriate computer-aided translation (CAT) tools, then page designs will not be distorted in the text of the target language, thereby resulting in a very substantial cost saving.
- Unlike conventional publishing, documents can be quickly brought to the printing stage in desktop publishing.
- Desktop publishing provides more impressive documents with high graphic quality.
- With a wide range of desktop applications, images and graphics can be created, resized, content can be placed on the page, and index pages can be prepared.
- Desktop publishing requires less manpower compared to the former system.
Desktop publishing saves time. - Errors are corrected before the printed material goes to the printing press. Thus, loss of energy and money are also prevented.
Programs Used in Desktop Publishing
A diverse range of computer software is used in desktop publishing. The most commonly used programs include Creative Cloud, InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, etc. Thanks to these programs that allow the use of creative computer tools from both desktop and mobile devices, printed materials can easily achieve a fantastic and impeccable look. Apart from those mentioned above, many different programs are used as well.
Mirora, working with successful and experienced specialists in its field since its foundation in August 1997, also offers desktop publishing services. If you would like to receive information about this service, you may contact us via e-mail or phone.
