Help and Frequently Asked Questions
Graphics Studio Frequently Asked Questions
How much will it cost?
This is, of course, dependent upon the actual project. As a very general guide, an exhibit design typically takes about 40 to 80 hours labor to complete, a video jacket about 8 to 24 hours, a poster design anywhere from 20 to 80 hours, and a brochure, booklet, or catalog, 160 hours or longer.
Do you do work for anyone outside Fish and Wildlife Service?
Yes, but our first priority is NCTC, and our second priority is other U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service offices. Projects for other agencies, because they are lower on our priority list, may get pushed back even after they are started if we receive new projects from within our own agency.
Once a project is completed, who owns the files and images?
It's our policy to use public domain images for our design work - in this case, both the files and images will be public domain. In instances where we must use an image(s) that is not public domain, the use image will stipulated in writing between the customer and the owner of the image.
Can you do any type of design project?
Our designers have expertise in print media, publication design, electronic media, illustration, and exhibit/display design. About the only design projects we currently don't do are interactive multimedia.
If you design a brochure for us, do we still have to get it printed through GPO?
If appropriated funds are used to print your project it must go through GPO. The exception is when more than half of the funds used to print come from non-government sources. In any case, you should always check with your regional publication coordinators and/or the FWS Printing and Publishing Office.
Do you provide copying services?
While we do have a reprographics staff and high-speed duplicating equipment, we are typically so busy preparing NCTC notebooks and other training material that there is seldom any time to accomplish outside copying work.
Can we pay you with a credit card?
Our current policy is to have FWS offices pay via an acquisition request. Other Federal agencies may pay with a credit card or purchase order once an interagency agreement has been completed.
How long will it take to do my project?
This is dependent on two factors: first, the scope of your project will dictate how long it actually takes a designer to produce it for you. For example, if you want us to design your exhibit, and you already have all your text, images, funding, and approvals taken care of, and we can start on your project immediately, it may take only 2 or 3 weeks to complete. However, if we are booked with other projects, we may not be able to start your project for days, weeks, or even months.
Will I get to work directly with a designer?
Yes. Once all administrative details are completed (approvals, funding, scheduling), you'll be working directly with the designer assigned to your project.
Will NCTC supply the exhibit structure for my display?
No. NCTC typically provides only the design of products. Any fabrication, output of images, mounting, laminating, and/or purchase of exhibit structures is the responsibility of the customer. However, we will help to coordinate and facilitate the acquisition of anything needed for your design project, and provide technical direction and guidance.
Does my project have to adhere to FWS graphic standards?
If it's an FWS product it has to adhere to FWS graphic standards. These standards apply to every printed product from internal newsletters to books for the general public, and to exhibits and displays. The only exceptions to this rule are a few multi-agency publications or products produced in conjunction with cooperating associations.
