FAQs and VIPs (Very Important Policies)
Q: Can I get a print-ready file for printing or editing?
A: We do not release print-ready, high-resolution files to clients. Here’s why:
The materials we produce are copyrighted, and in order to maintain the integrity of the content, no pieces can be edited or reproduced by external sources without our oversight. In addition, pieces often include rights-managed images, which cannot be re-used without permission from the source.
Our office must maintain primary responsibility for compliance with branding standards and for ensuring our assets are reproduced only by Duke-approved vendors and those licensed to handle our trademarks.
Our office embraces certain sustainable practices in the use of paper stock, ink, etc. In many cases, the appropriate certifications (FSC, SFI, eco-audits, etc.) appear as part of the artwork. These designations are not only identified with a particular paper stock and a particular press run, but also include an identification number for a specific vendor who oversees the chain of custody requirement implied by the designation. Misrepresentation (reproduction) of this certification is considered a criminal offense.
Our office must oversee the transfer of electronic files to printers and subsequent proof reviews to ensure all elements were successfully transferred and correctly placed by the printer. (Sometimes digital files become corrupt during transfer and troubleshooting on our part is necessary.)
Q: How do you choose your printers?
A: MCS maintains working relationships with a range of Duke-approved vendors, including printers, videographers, photographers, and others. We bid each project competitively, then make a selection based on quality, price, ability to meet deadlines, past performance, location, and customer service.
Companies wishing to become approved vendors with Duke Medicine should contact Duke Procurement Services.
Q: Serial comma or no serial comma? Are titles capitalized? What else can the writers help me with?
A. MCS adheres, in most cases, to standards of usage as described in the Chicago Manual of Style. More details may be found in our editorial style guidelines.
MCS writers and editors are an experienced group of professionals with fluency in a wide variety of writing styles, including feature writing, writing for the Web, advertising copywriting, video storytelling and scriptwriting, speech-writing, and medical and technical writing.
We will provide any level of writing and editing required -- starting from scratch or from your supplied copy.
Q: Should I use the Duke Medicine logo on everything we produce?
A: All applications of any Duke Medicine brand should follow approved branding standards. Please visit the Duke Medicine branding Web site for more details.
Q: Who can help me with trademark issues?
A: For information about Duke University and Duke Medicine trademark licensing, please visit trademarklicensing.duke.edu.
Q: What about clinical trial advertising?
A: In conjunction with Duke’s Institutional Review Board (IRB), MCS has provided guidelines, templates, and copywriting suggestions for use by Duke Medicine researchers advertising their research studies.
