is a book publisher. The
MIT Copy Technology Centers, an internal
vendor, provides photocopying and other duplication services.
Finding what you need
Where can I get the MIT logo or the MIT seal?
All elements of the MIT graphic identity can be downloaded from
the MIT Graphic Identity
website.
Where can I get guidelines for using the MIT identity?
The MIT Graphic Identity website has all the information you need. If you have questions, don't hesitate to call your PSB advisor.
Where can I get photographs of MIT?
PSB maintains photographs of the campus that you can use in your publications for a nominal fee. For customized photographs, we can refer you to photographers and other photographic resources.
How can I find out the official shades of MIT red and gray?
Using the Pantone Matching System, also known as PMS colors, MIT red is PMS 201 and MIT gray is PMS 424. The web designations are hex # 993333 for red (RGB equivalent = R 153, G 51, B 51) and hex # 666666 for gray (RGB equivalent = R 102, G 102, B 102). Find out more about the official school colors at the MIT Graphic Identity website.
Where can I access the MIT campus map?
You can find the campus map online or contact the Information Center for a copy at 617.253.4795. Your PSB advisor can also assist you in developing a custom map.
Where can I go to use desktop publishing equipment at MIT?
MIT's Information Systems offers basic desktop publishing facilities for the MIT community.
Does PSB have samples of MIT publications I can look at?
Explore our samples
and case studies
for examples of different kinds of projects. Or make an appointment
with your PSB advisor to view printed samples at the Publishing
Services Bureau.
Working with PSB
Does my department have an assigned PSB advisor?
Many PSB advisors have long-established relationships with individuals and departments. Call any PSB advisor on our staff or let us introduce you to an advisor.
Can you recommend a printer/designer/writer/editor/photographer for a project?
Yes. Consult a PSB advisor to explore your options. Based on your project need and communications goals, your PSB advisor will recommend qualified vendors.
How can I place an order for stationery?
Visit the business papers online page for full information and to place an order.
Am I required to use PSB to print my project?
PSB is a resource, not a mandated service. We're here to provide advice, referrals, and all-around support to members of the MIT community—from beginners to seasoned communications professionals.
How do I obtain a history of my department's past PSB projects?
Ask a PSB advisor to research your department's past projects in our database.
Preparing for a project
How should I balance my communications budget between web and print projects?
Think about your audience and the media they are most likely to use. Another strategy is to use print and electronic media in tandem. For example, you can distribute a brochure that sends readers to your website for further information. Some departments opt to send out postcards that point to the resources available on their websites. Essentially, they use print to increase their web audience. It's a good idea to include a web/print strategy in your overall communications plan. Feel free to ask your PSB advisor for guidance.
How can I estimate the cost of my project?
Your PSB advisor can help create industry-standard specifications for prospective vendors, so you'll be sure of getting an accurate quote.
How long does a typical project take?
Review sample schedules to get an idea of the timeframe for various print and web projects.
How do I create a requisition?
An individual who is authorized to spend your department's funds must submit a requisition using information provided by your PSB advisor. The MIT Procurement Department will then use that requisition to create a purchase order. Requisitions can be submitted electronically through the SAP system or on an Institute-approved form. If you have questions about the process, ask your PSB advisor.
What is a "selection of source" document?
For any individual requisition that totals more than $5,000, MIT requires that you show justification for that choice of vendor on a "selection of source" form. You may also have to include additional bids and other documentation, depending on the commodity purchased. Consult your PSB advisor on the best way to proceed.
Why is my printing invoice higher than the estimate?
Any number of specification changes may occur during a project to increase its cost. Changes that you initiated after the job started, additional shipping locations, quantity or color changes, and incorrectly prepared files can all add significant charges to the final bill. Your PSB advisor can assist you in managing the costs of your project.
Publications can be overwhelming
tasks—where do I start?
Right here.