At MC2 , it is our belief that the initial presentation of a document is essential to the success of the purpose for which the document is presented - in essence the sale to the recipient of the concept or product promoted by that document. The initial impression is very much influenced by the binding method, choice of covers and color combinations. Any recipient will be strongly influenced by the first thing that he sees of a presentation. Regardless of how brilliant the inside material is, if the cover is sloppy or ordinary, human nature will tend to regard, at least initially, that the entire presentation is sloppy or ordinary. Because a first impression is so powerful, this first impression is often difficult to overcome and continues to overshadow the merit of the presentation. This may be unfair but it is standard human nature.

Our contention then, is that a good deal of creative energy should be expended in thinking through how a presentation is bound. Different binding systems and color combinations can convey powerful images and their choice should not be left to chance. Binding systems are not expensive and improving a presentation can usually be done with a simple change of material at little or no extra cost. At MC2 we specialize in carrying 10 different binding systems, each one in as broad a range of sizes and colors as are available from the world’s best manufacturers. We also carry over150 different types, quality levels, textures and colors of covers, and we are always on the lookout for something new and challenging. Possible presentation combinations are almost infinite.

We feel that color is often neglected as an image factor. When asked about color, most people reply “black”. Yet color is a selling tool. Studies have shown that color outsells black and white images by a factor of 6! Studies have also shown that the ladies are more color sensitive than men. Where there is a female element in the decision-making process, the use of color can thus be even more important.

Binding systems, like hem lines on skirts, are subject to current fashions. At the moment, comb binding while still a very good binding system, has lost its popularity. The market has swung to wire and spiral coil binding and sometimes to more exotic systems like Rollabind or Chicago screws. In certain situations snap binders work very well. The choice of system depends on the image desired and the purpose of the presentation. For example, will this document be handed out at a trade show or for door-to-door distribution, or will it be presented as a single document to the president of General Motors. If the source of the document is a financial services operation, then one must maintain a reasonably conservative image using perhaps black, navy, or forest green. On the other hand, an aggressive advertising agency may feel quite comfortable with hot pink or orange. Children are attracted to bright colors so children’s books are often bound with florescent coil binding. So a wide choice of options exists and the correct one for a situation will depend on one’s own tastes and the image that one is trying to project.

We are always available at MC2 to make suggestions and answer any questions that you may have. Please feel free to contact us at:

1-800-435-6623

infobook@mc2office.com