How do you test and preview vector graphics before sending them to print or publishing them online?

1 Choose the right format

The first step is to choose the right file format for your vector graphic. Depending on your purpose and platform, you may need to use different formats, such as PDF, SVG, EPS, or AI. Each format has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you need to consider factors like compatibility, quality, size, and interactivity. For example, PDF is a universal format that preserves vector quality and allows editing, but it may not support some features like animations or filters. SVG is a web-friendly format that supports interactivity and responsiveness, but it may not display well on some browsers or devices. EPS is a common format for print, but it may not be compatible with some software or printers. AI is the native format for Adobe Illustrator, but it may not be accessible to other programs or users.

2 Check the color mode

The second step is to check the color mode of your vector graphic. Color mode refers to the way colors are represented by your computer or printer. There are two main color modes: RGB and CMYK. RGB stands for red, green, and blue, and it is the color mode used by most monitors and screens. CMYK stands for cyan, magenta, yellow, and black, and it is the color mode used by most printers and presses. If you are creating a vector graphic for web, you should use RGB color mode to ensure accurate and vibrant colors on the screen. If you are creating a vector graphic for print, you should use CMYK color mode to avoid color shifts or dullness on the paper.

3 Adjust the resolution

The third step is to adjust the resolution of your vector graphic. Resolution refers to the number of pixels or dots per inch (dpi) that make up your image. Higher resolution means higher quality and clarity, but also larger file size and longer printing time. Lower resolution means lower quality and bluriness, but also smaller file size and faster printing time. Vector graphics are resolution-independent, which means they can be scaled up or down without losing quality. However, if you are exporting your vector graphic as a raster image (such as JPG or PNG), or if you are using raster effects (such as drop shadows or textures) in your vector graphic, you need to set the resolution according to your output. For web, you should use a resolution of 72 dpi to optimize the loading speed and performance of your website. For print, you should use a resolution of 300 dpi or higher to ensure sharp and smooth results on the paper.

4 Preview the output

The fourth step is to preview the output of your vector graphic. This means you can check how your vector graphic will look and behave on the final destination, such as a browser, device, or printer. Doing so can help to spot and fix any errors, glitches, or inconsistencies that may occur during the export or print process. For instance, you may notice that some fonts, colors, or effects are missing, distorted, or different from what you expected. To preview the output, there are various tools and methods available such as using the preview mode or export preview option in your vector software, saving it as a PDF and opening it in a PDF viewer, uploading it to a web server or cloud service to view it on different browsers and devices, and printing it on a test paper or proof copy.

5 Optimize the file size

The fifth step is to optimize the file size of your vector graphic. This means reducing the amount of data and space it occupies without compromising its quality or functionality. Optimizing the file size can help improve loading speed and performance of your website, or save printing cost and time of your project. To do this, you can remove unnecessary elements, layers, or paths from your vector graphic; simplify or merge complex or overlapping shapes, gradients, or patterns; convert text or fonts to outlines or curves; and use compression or optimization tools or settings in your vector software or online.

6 Test the usability

The final step is to evaluate the usability of your vector graphic. This means assessing how it communicates and interacts with your audience or users. Testing the usability can help you make sure that your vector graphic is successful in achieving your goals and expectations, and that it is clear, effective, and engaging. You can use various methods and measures to test the usability, such as requesting feedback or reviews from clients or colleagues, conducting surveys or polls with your target audience, using analytics to track performance and behavior of your vector graphic on your website or platform, and making adjustments or improvements based on the results of the testing.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?