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Ads Production

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Ads Production FAQ

What are the dimensions and specifications for my ads? - This link below has our ad size specifications. We have also included helpful links on sizing and programs to use. https://www.businesshelp-citylifestyle.com/advertising-specifications Can you create a QR code for my client's ad? Can they include multiple QR codes in one ad? - We do not create QR codes for clients, they must supply and maintain the code themselves. We recommend using www.bitly.com where they can set up a free account and create QR codes with no expiration. - We will accept only a single QR code that links to the client's landing page that can direct readers to their social platforms or website. Where can I access house ads? - You can access the City Lifestyle house ads in ARC: https://citylifestylehq.com/#training/docs/1022/1031 Can you send content violations to my Editor or Publication Director? - Due to the nature of our franchise business model and the diverse communication between our publications, we prefer to address matters such as Content Policy Violations directly with the Publisher. - We understand that time-sensitive issues like these may require prompt action. Please feel free to share this communication with the appropriate team member, and our team will be happy to collaborate with anyone on your team who can help resolve the matter. Why is there an advertisement tag at the top of my client's ad? - Maintaining a clear separation between editorial and advertising content is important for the integrity of our brand. - The decision to place an Advertisement tag at the top of an ad is made by the creative team when an ad too closely resembles the essence of the City Lifestyle visual identity, signaling to our audience that the content they are engaging with is a paid promotion and not part of our editorial offerings. Can I provide inspiration for my client's ad? - We do not create ads using inspiration from sources outside of City Lifestyle. - We encourage you to choose from our extensive template library, which encompasses a variety of styles, formats, and sizes. - Each of our templates are crafted with consideration for our audience and the unique characteristics of our advertising space. What does the "safe zone" mean? - The blue hash measures the safe area and bleeds for print. If ANY text falls within the blue hash, this would be considered outside the safe area and will be cut off in the printing and binding process. Can you create a custom house ad for my magazine? - In an effort to create brand consistency, we will no longer support creation requests for custom or provided house ads. Can you pull the images from this collage photo or PDF? - We cannot take images from PDFs, collages, or provided ads. Please upload the images you would like to use separately. Ensure that all images are larger in size, high quality, and visually clear. - For further explanation on image resolution, please visit https://www.businesshelp-citylifestyle.com/advertising-specifications. Can you pull the images from this folder/link/website? - We do not accept images from links due to the risk of corrupted files or viruses. Please upload the images you would like to use via ARC or the Customer Portal. _ How does the ads team select a past ad to pick up? _ - Our design team selects the most relevant or neutral ad for pickups, avoiding those with expired dates or out-of-season content. If no suitable recent ad is available, we may use one that ran over a month before the current issue. To ensure a specific ad is used, publishers and clients should select their preferred pickup before the final deadline. _ Why was a house ad ran instead of my client's ad? _ - A house ad is used during pickups when a client does not have a previously ran ad for us to use or does not have a previously ran ad in the same size. What is the "new ad revision alert" process? - The production team may flag an ad for a blurry image alerting you for a revision; you can correct the issue and submit a new ad up until your final ad deadline, but, if no new ad is submitted, we will run the submitted ad as is when the final deadline passes. - The revision alert you receive states: "You may correct the issues and submit a new ad until your final ad deadline. Please note that if no new ad is submitted we will run the submitted ad as is." _ Where can I find the production history for a client's ad? _ - When in the tab “Ads” for your respective advertiser, click on the month/year ad of interest, scroll down the page to “History” and expand the section with the down arrow to the right. There you will see from start to finish the progress of an ad that both you and your designer are involved with in producing the final design.

Last updated on Jan 12, 2025

Understanding Pagination

Pagination is the process of slating space for editorial and ads. It’s like putting together a brand new puzzle each month - there are different lengths of editorial sections and a new combination of ad sizes that need to fit within your total page count. Below provides some insight to the guidelines the layout team operates under to make the complex process of pagination a little more simple.  General Layout Notes: - Pagination occurs the day after your agreement/first ads deadline. - All insertions need to be finalized by this date and we cannot accept late changes.  - There are many things that go into laying out a publication. Our layout designers are highly skilled and educated and are experts about the ins and outs of layout and design.   - Although it may seem like an easy request or suggestion, please know that some things simply cannot be done based on the combination of materials, sizes, and physical page space in the magazine. In the instance that something can’t be done, we will do our best to explain why that is. How we place house ads: Any time there is an odd or unrounded number of fractional ads, there is a chance that a house ad will  need to be placed.  - 1/4 Vertical house ad: if there is an odd number of 1/4 vertical ads, we will place a 1/4 vertical house ad to fill the remaining space.  - 1/3 Horizontal house ad: If there are two 1/3 house ads, then we may have to place a 1/3 house ad to fill out the page.  - 1/3 Vertical house ad: If there is a 2/3 vertical  page ad and there is not an article that it can be added to, we will place a 1/3 vertical house ad to fill out the page.  What is considered “Front of Book”, “Back of Book”, and use of the pages in between? The sections in the Front and Back of Book are standardized and have set layout space in the magazine that can't be changed: Front: Cover, TOC, Lifestyle Letter, City Scene & Business Monthly Back: Calendar and Realty Report - The larger the magazine, the more ads we place at the front of the magazine to maintain good flow through the following pages. - We do not place more than 3 pages of ads between articles. - We try to keep the integrity of the recipe layout at all times which means we won't break up an article in special ways to accommodate the ads list. Production Notes: - Production notes are for you to be able to give direction and guidance to the layout designer based on what you are needing or how you envision your content being handled.  - Depending on the request, production notes can not always be followed. The designer should be able to address the requests during the content review period.

Last updated on Jan 12, 2025

Supported Graphic Files

When uploading an image for your ad please ensure the file upload is a JPEG or PNG. Information on File Formats Raster Images - JPG - Web and print photos and quick previews - GIF - Animation and transparency in limited colors - PNG - Transparency with millions of colors - TIFF - High quality print graphics and scans - RAW - Unprocessed data from digital cameras - PSD - Layered Adobe Photoshop design files Vector Images - PDF - Print files and web-based documents - EPS - Individual vector design elements - AI - Original Adobe Illustrator design files These vector images can also incorporate raster elements Image Color Formats - CMYK - a 4-color printing process that stands for cyan, magenta, yellow and key (black) - RGB - a light-based color model that stands for red, green and blue Raster Image Resolution (DPI) DPI stands for “dots per inch” and is the measurement used within the printing and graphics design industry to determine how sharp an image is. The difference between 300 DPI and 72 DPI is found in the amount of pixel information (or dots) for every square inch of the image you are viewing. The more dots/pixels an image contains, the sharper the image will print. When designing graphics for commercial printing purposes, your images should be 300 DPI. Web graphics and online photos are normally created at 72 DPI. This low resolution is great for the web, not great for your print advertisement. Printing will become blurry at this low resolution compared to a 300 DPI high resolution image.

Last updated on Jan 12, 2025

How to View an Ad's Production History

How to View an Ad's Production History in ARC https://embed.app.guidde.com/playbooks/4Hx9dcxz17MjevLQsgnPHr This guide will walk you through how to efficiently view an ad's production history in ARC. Go to citylifestylehq.com 1. Viewing an Ad's Production History Monitoring an ad’s production history allows you to track its progress from submission to completion and identify any revisions needed or made to ensure deadlines are met. Clients are notified at each stage of production, keeping them informed or alerting them if their action is required to move forward to the next stage. Additionally, it provides a record of past designs, which can be useful for future reference or troubleshooting, such as determining if a client may need a refresher on the ad submission process. Viewing an Ad's Production History 2. Click on "Reporting" tab In ARC, click on the Reporting tab on the left hand side. Click on 'Reporting' tab 3. Select the "Ads List" report and the correct month Select the Ads List report from the drop down menu and the current month you are working on then click display. Select the 'Ads List' report and the correct month 4. Click on client's ad submission Locate the client in the Ads List and under the Status column click on the ad submission. Click on client's ad submission 5. Open the Ad History At the bottom of the ad page expand the history section. Open the Ad History 6. View Ad History Here you can view the history of the ads production between the client and the corporate team. Each proof will be time stamped and attached here. Look for indicators that show your client may be struggling understanding the production process. Be sure to schedule a follow up onboarding training when needed. This will allow you to reset client expectations and ensure they understand how to properly submit ad content to be more successful in the current deadline and future submissions. View Ad History This guide detailed the steps to navigate and filter through an ad's production history in ARC. Powered by guidde

Last updated on Jan 12, 2025

How to Upload a Print Ready Ad for a Client

How to Upload a Print Ready Ad (Publisher POV) https://embed.app.guidde.com/playbooks/h3EEucsW7BJc6ZpB5imCdX This guide will walk you through the process of uploading a print-ready ad in ARC. Go to citylifestylehq.com 1. Uploading a Print-Ready Ad for a Client While it’s not ideal and best practice is for the client to upload their ad directly through the customer portal, there are instances where the publisher may need to step in. As a last resort, the publisher may upload the ad to ensure it is submitted and approved before the deadline, avoiding delays in production. However, this should only be done in exceptional cases, as having the client upload the ad themselves ensures they have full control over the submission and approval process. Uploading a Print-Ready Ad for a Client 2. Reporting Page In ARC, navigate to the Reporting page on the left hand side. Reporting Page 3. Select Ad List report Select the Ad List report from the drop down menu. Select Ad List report 4. Select the month Select the desired month. Select the month 5. Click "Display" Click Display Click 'Display' 6. Click "Submit Ad" Find the account from the client list you are wanting to place the Ad for. To the right under the Status column, click Submit Ad for that account. Click 'Submit Ad' 7. Upload a Finished Ad In the screen that populates, select "Upload a Finished Ad" Upload a Finished Ad 8. Click "Upload Provided Ad" Click the green "Upload Provided Ad" button located towards the top left side to upload the Print Ready Ad PDF file. Click 'Upload Provided Ad' 9. Review Ad and Submit Once the ad has been uploaded, verify the Additional Specifications on the right-hand side have green check marks. Green checkmarks indicate the file meets that guideline. If there is a red X this indicates an issue with one of the guidelines and will need necessary revisions to the file before proceeding with the submission. Click Submit when all specifications are met. Review Ad and Submit The guide covered how to upload a print ready ad in ARC for a client. Powered by guidde

Last updated on Jan 12, 2025

How to Submit an Ad Creative Design Request

How to Submit a Creative Ad Design Request in the Customer Portal (Client's POV) https://embed.app.guidde.com/playbooks/5p5h8nXaoUsw6b9i62XGCZ This guide details the process for submitting a creative ad design request in the Customer Portal from the client's perspective. Go to citylifestylehq.com 1. Utilizing City Lifestyle's creative design services ensures clients will receive professional, high-quality designs that are tailored to their specific needs. Utilizing City Lifestyles creative design services ensures clients will receive professional, high-quality designs that are tailored to their specific needs. Our design team has the expertise to craft visually compelling and effective ads that meet industry standards and are on brand, saving clients the time and effort of doing it themselves. Additionally, working with our team ensures that the ad is aligned with the publication's specifications, avoiding any potential formatting or design issues that could delay production. Utilizing City Lifestyle's creative design services ensures clients will receive professional, high-quality designs that are tailored to their specific needs. 2. Click "Ads" In the customer portal click on the Ads tab on left side of the page. Click 'Ads' 3. Notice your upcoming insertion will have a red deadline box below it Each of your insertions will be listed under Ads by Issue. The upcoming insertion will have a red Request Deadline box below it. Notice your upcoming insertion will have a red deadline box below it 4. Click + on the insertion you are requesting Once you've determined which insertion your are wanting to submit your design for, click on the grey plus sign button. Click + on the insertion you are requesting 5. Select "Create an Ad" Under Ad Options select the Create An Ad option found in the middle. Select 'Create an Ad' 6. First, select your ad style from the templates There is a series of 5 fields to fill out to submit your ad design request. The first field under Select Your Ad Style is where you will choose your ad layout from our library of templates. First, select your ad style from the templates 7. Select template Click on the template you would like to use for the overall design of your ad. Custom changes can be requested later. Select template 8. Enter ad copy In the second field under ad copy is where you will add the text that will go into your ad. Designers will only apply text listed in the copy fields to the ad. Text in all other fields will be considered as notes. Enter ad copy 9. The "Ad Copy" field is required and where you will need to enter the exact text you want within your ad. The "Ad Copy" field is required and where you will need to enter the exact text you want within your ad. You can provide your list of services, product descriptions, a powerful headline, testimonials, or anything that you believe is important for the reader to know. ALL copy in this box will be copied over to your ad so please refrain from adding any additional notes for your designer here. The 'Ad Copy' field is required and where you will need to enter the exact text you want within your ad. 10. Add optional additional promotions or specials In the box labeled, Do you have any special services or promotions you want to highlight?, provide the copy for any key offers or promotions you want prominently featured, such as sales or unique services. This is optional but recommended. Add optional additional promotions or specials 11. Add files Field 3 is where you will upload all of the files you want in your ad or to be referenced by the designer. This includes but is not limited to, logos, high resolution images such as main images or headshots, QR Codes or font files. Add files 12. Label each file uploaded Next to each file there will be a section to label the file with a small note for the designer to reference. Any detailed descriptions should be added in the "Final Designer Notes" field later. Label each file uploaded 13. Upload images or use Adobe Stock When uploading images for your ad, you will have the option to upload directly from your computer or to select a stock photo from Adobe. Upload images or use Adobe Stock 14. Search for related image and select If you choose to upload an Adobe stock image it will open the website for you to begin your search. Search for related image and select 15. Copy the file number Once you've selected your photo, click on the copy icon next to the file number Copy the file number 16. Paste the file number and click submit Back in the customer portal, paste the file number for the stock image and click the "Submit" button. Paste the file number and click submit 17. Add, edit or remove contact information Under Business Details your contact information will be directly imported from your account. You can fill in any areas that are blank or need edited, including removing information you do not want listed in the ad. Details changed here will not update what we have on file for you so be sure to inform your publisher of any updates needed so it can be pre filled correctly next time. Add, edit or remove contact information 18. Add final designer notes Lastly, under final designer notes type any notes to the designer to ensure that your ad reflects your vision, highlights your key messages, and meets your expectations. Clear and detailed notes help the designer understand your preferences, avoid miscommunication, and deliver an ad that aligns with your goals. Add final designer notes 19. Best Practices for Providing Designer Notes A few best practices for providing notes are to be specific and clearly describe what you want. Instead of using vague comments like "make it pop" say something like "Please use bold colors for the headline to make it stand out." If your ad has multiple sections such as a headline, body text, images organize your notes into categories. This helps the designer follow each element without missing details. Organizing your notes in bullet points or a numbered lists makes it easier for the designer to follow and check them off as they complete your requests. Our designers have access to Adobe & Google fonts. If your brand font is not available through either of those, you will need to provide your font file for the designer to attempt to match the font to their best of their ability. Best Practices for Providing Designer Notes 20. Examples of Effective Designer Notes Here are a few examples of Effective Notes. "Please use the brand colors (blue and gold) for the background, and keep the text in white for better readability." If you say blue without providing a reference image the designer may not know what shade of blue you have in mind, so be as descriptive in the details or If possible provide specific Hex color codes for best results. "Feature the '20% off' promotion prominently at the top in a larger, bold Arial Black Font." "Use the attached logo labeled main logo in the bottom right corner and ensure it's sized consistently with the other elements." "Make the background image 30% transparent with a dark tint filter, reference photo labeled background inspiration Examples of Effective Designer Notes 21. Submit your Creative Design Request When you are satisfied with what you have provided in your request, select the Green Submit button at the bottom of the screen. Submit your Creative Design Request This guide covered the step-by-step process for submitting a creative ad design request in the Customer Portal. Powered by guidde

Last updated on Jan 12, 2025

How to Submit a Realty Report Ad Design

How to Submit a Realty Report Ad Design (Client POV) https://embed.app.guidde.com/playbooks/dv1ahNz777JeNTmijk4Nc9 This guide will assist you in submitting a Realty Report Ad Design from a client's perspective on Citylifestylehq 1. 2. MLS Table The top section of the Realty Report Ad is a table for your MLS data, and below the table, a ⅓ page ad featuring the realtor. For the ad, you may submit a print-ready design or request our team to create one using a standard template. MLS Table 3. Click "Ads" In the Customer Portal, click on the Ads tab on the left hand side. Click 'Ads' 4. Click + Find the correct month you will be submitting an ad for, and click on the gray plus sign symbol. Click + 5. Click "Select" In the center of the new window page, select Create An Ad. Click 'Select' 6. Skip Field One Field one, Select Your Ad Style, will not be available for the Realty Report as it is standardized. Skip Field One 7. In Field Two, enter the Ad Copy for creative (if needed) If you would like the design team to create the 1/3 page ad that is placed under the Realty Report, please enter all text for the ad in field two under Ad Copy. If you are uploading your own Print-Ready 1/3 ad, please skip this step. In Field Two, enter the Ad Copy for creative (if needed) 8. The "Ad Copy" field is required and where you will need to enter the exact text you want within your ad. Keep in mind the "Ad Copy" field is required for the ad design and where you will need to enter the exact text you want within your ad. You can provide your list of services, product descriptions, a powerful headline, testimonials, or anything that you believe is important for the reader to know. All copy in this box will be copied over to your ad so please refrain from adding any additional notes for your designer here. The 'Ad Copy' field is required and where you will need to enter the exact text you want within your ad. 9. Add optional additional promotions or specials In the next box you can provide copy for any key offers or promotions you want prominently featured, such as sales or unique services. This is optional but recommended. Add optional additional promotions or specials 10. Add files Field 3 is where you will upload all of the files you want in your ad or to be referenced by the designer. This includes but is not limited to, logos, high resolution images such as main images or headshots, QR Codes or font files. Add files 11. Label each file uploaded Next to each file there will be a section to label the file with a small note for the designer to reference. Any detailed descriptions should be added in the "Final Designer Notes" field later. Label each file uploaded 12. Upload images or use Adobe Stock When uploading images for your ad, you will have the option to upload directly from your computer or to select a stock photo from Adobe. Upload images or use Adobe Stock 13. Search for related image and select If you choose to upload an Adobe stock image it will open the website for you to begin your search. Search for related image and select 14. Copy the file number Once you've selected your photo, click on the copy icon next to the file number Copy the file number 15. Paste the file number and click submit Back in the customer portal, paste the file number for the stock image and click the "Submit" button. Paste the file number and click submit 16. Add, edit or remove contact information In Field Four under Business Details your contact information will be directly imported from your account. You can fill in any areas that are blank or need edited, including removing information you do not want listed in the ad. Details changed here will not update what we have on file for you so be sure to inform your publisher of any updates needed so it can be pre-filled correctly next time. Add, edit or remove contact information 17. Add final designer notes Field Five is where you can enter any notes for the designer to ensure that your ad reflects your vision, highlights your key messages, and meets your expectations. Clear and detailed notes help the designer understand your preferences, avoid miscommunication, and deliver an ad that aligns with your goals. Add final designer notes 18. Best Practices for Providing Designer Notes A few best practices for providing notes are to be specific and clearly describe what you want. Instead of using vague comments like "make it pop" say something like "Please use bold colors for the headline to make it stand out." If your ad has multiple sections such as a headline, body text, images organize your notes into categories. This helps the designer follow each element without missing details. Organizing your notes in bullet points or a numbered lists makes it easier for the designer to follow and check them off as they complete your requests. Our designers have access to Adobe & Google fonts. If your brand font is not available through either of those, you will need to provide your font file for the designer to attempt to match the font to their best of their ability. Best Practices for Providing Designer Notes 19. Examples of Effective Designer Notes Here are a few examples of Effective Notes. "Please use the brand colors (blue and gold) for the background, and keep the text in white for better readability." If you say blue without providing a reference image the designer may not know what shade of blue you have in mind, so be as descriptive in the details or If possible provide specific Hex color codes for best results. "Feature the '20% off' promotion prominently at the top in a larger, bold Arial Black Font." "Use the attached logo labeled main logo in the bottom right corner and ensure it's sized consistently with the other elements." "Make the background image 30% transparent with a dark tint filter, reference photo labeled background inspiration Examples of Effective Designer Notes 20. Upload Realty Report Data Lastly, in Field Six is where you will upload a CSV file for the Realty Report. With a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 25 listings, the realty data must be listed in the file as Neighborhood, List Price, Sold Price, Percentage Sold/List, DOM, Bedrooms and Baths. Upload Realty Report Data 21. Realty Report Template There is also a CVS template available to download and edit if needed. Realty Report Template 22. Click Submit Click Submit once all information has been uploaded. Click Submit This guide covered the steps required to submit a Realty Report Ad Design on Citylifestylehq, including selecting ad styles, adding images, files, and uploading a CSV with house information Powered by guidde

Last updated on Jan 12, 2025

How to Repurpose a Past Ad for a Client

While it's ideal for clients to manage their own ads, there are times when a publisher may need to repurpose a previously ran ad on their behalf. This can happen if the client can't access the system, faces technical issues, or requests help due to time constraints or unfamiliarity. In such cases, the publisher steps in to ensure the ad runs on time and avoids production delays. How to Repurpose a Past Ad (Publisher POV) https://embed.app.guidde.com/playbooks/bfXQwAfEaYrcgiBemQ4DhW This guide will walk you through the process of repurposing a previously ran ad for a client in ARC. Go to citylifestylehq.com 1. Repurposing an Ad for a Client While it's ideal for clients to manage their own ads, there are times when a publisher may need to repurpose a previously ran ad on their behalf. This can happen if the client can't access the system, faces technical issues, or requests help due to time constraints or unfamiliarity. In such cases, the publisher steps in to ensure the ad runs on time and avoids production delays Repurposing an Ad for a Client 2. Reporting Page In ARC, navigate to the Reporting page on the left hand side. Reporting Page 3. Select Ad List report Select the Ad List report from the drop down menu. Select Ad List report 4. Select the month Select the desired month. Select the month 5. Click "Display" Click Display Click 'Display' 6. Click "Submit Ad" Locate the client you're working with and under the Status column to the right click Submit Ad. If there is a small red triangle next to "Submit Ad," this indicates the client is either a new client or their ad insertion size has changed and their is no previous ad to run. If there is no red triangle, this indicates the client has a past ad in the same insertion size that they can repurpose. Click 'Submit Ad' 7. Repurpose a Past Ad Under Repurpose a Past Ad click Select Repurpose a Past Ad 8. Select the Ad Select the previously ran ad you would like to repurpose Select the Ad 9. Conditions for Repurposing an Ad If the ad was created by City Lifestyle's production team, you have the option to repurpose it as is or request minor changes, since the production team already has the necessary files for quick revisions. However, if the ad was originally created and submitted by the client as a print-ready ad, it can only be repurposed as is, with no revisions allowed. Conditions for Repurposing an Ad 10. Request Revisions or Submit Ad If no revisions are needed, click the green "Submit" button to proceed with repurposing the ad as is. If revisions are allowed and needed, scroll to the bottom of the page and click the red "Request Revisions" button. Request Revisions or Submit Ad 11. Upload new files and add request notes Upload any new images in the "Files" field, and provide new or updated copy along with any relevant notes in the "Notes" field. Click submit to submit the ad and revision request. Upload new files and add request notes The guide covered how to repurpose a previously ran ad for your client in ARC. Powered by guidde

Last updated on Jan 12, 2025

How to Locate and Understand Publication Deadlines in ARC

First Ad/Ad Creative Deadline Your first ads deadline is at 11:59 PM CT for your given ads cycle. All materials for creation requests (ads the home office is going to design for your clients) and initial ad revisions are due by this date. In addition, all print-ready ads being submitted by your clients must be uploaded by this time and date.  This date is the same as the Media Kit Deadline. Anything received after 11:59 PM CT on this date is fined or rejected.  All contracts are also locked into place on this date. You cannot add, delete or alter the insertion orders for any contracts for that month's publication after 11:59 pm CST on this date. This is also the date that is in your media kit and that is communicated as the deadline to your customers. Final Ad Approval   At 10:00 am CT on this date, all ads created or altered by our corporate team must be given final approval in ARC by either you (the Publisher) or by your client. Any insertion orders left unapproved or un-submitted will be filled with either the client's last approved ad or, in the event that there is no past artwork to pick up, a house ad. They will still be charged for this ad space. The key is to stay organized and on top of all materials. Keep a schedule and you will not run into any problems.  How to Locate and Understand Publication Deadlines in ARC https://embed.app.guidde.com/playbooks/7ymVpX58VqkcwB2qT3kbHa Explore how to efficiently navigate and understand publication deadlines in ARC. 1. Deadline Overview Understanding and meeting publication deadlines is crucial for maintaining a smooth production workflow and avoiding last-minute issues that can disrupt the publication cycle. Deadline Overview 2. No Deadline Exceptions Missing a deadline can lead to significant delays and impact the quality of our publication, therefore no exceptions or extensions will be accepted if a deadline is missed. No Deadline Exceptions 3. Deadline Dates The Publication Deadline Overview Sheet in ARC provides a comprehensive list of all critical dates and deadlines. Regularly referring to this sheet will help you quickly learn these deadlines. Deadline Dates 4. Click "Training & Documents" To access the deadline sheet, In ARC, click on the Training & Documents tab from the menu on the left. Click 'Training & Documents' 5. Search "Publication Deadlines" Enter "Publication Deadlines in the "What do you need?" search field. Search 'Publication Deadlines' 6. Select "Publication Deadlines" Select the PDF file titled Publication Deadlines from the generated results Select 'Publication Deadlines' 7. Download Deadline Breakdown Download or print the document to expand to review the vital dates and times for Editorial, Ads, and Accounting deadlines. Download Deadline Breakdown 8. Deadline Dates There are four different sets of deadline cycles for our publications. The first date of deadline cycle will be reflective of your first ads deadline. Deadline Dates 9. Deadline Dates Be sure to reference the appropriate column for your deadline cycle. Deadline Dates 10. Editorial Deadline The Editorial deadline is the date by which the publisher or their team must submit all editorial content in ARC. Editorial Deadline 11. Editorial Content Uploaded This includes articles, Business Monthly content, City Scene images, events, City List entries, and any other custom content. Editorial Content Uploaded 12. Click "Editorial" You can also find your editorial deadline in ARC. Click on the Editorial Tab on the left side of the screen. Click 'Editorial' 13. Click "Issues" Located across the top of the screen, select the "issues" option. Click 'Issues' 14. View Editorial Deadlines Your editorial deadlines will be found on the top right corner of this section. View Editorial Deadlines 15. Advertising Contracts, Creative Design Requests and Print Ready Ads Advertising Contracts, Creative Design Request, and Print Ready Ads all share the same deadline Advertising Contracts, Creative Design Requests and Print Ready Ads 16. Advertising Contracts Advertising Contracts deadline is the final date to submit ad contracts, creation requests, size changes, pauses, or cancellations for the upcoming issue. Advertising Contracts 17. Creative Design Requests The Creative Design Request deadline is the last day to submit a request for the corporate design team to create the ad, including past ad revisions. Late submissions will not be accepted. Creative Design Requests 18. Print Ready Ads Print Ready Ads deadline is the date clients provided ads need to be submitted to be reviewed by the QC team. If the ad cannot be in approved status by the Final deadline the last approved ad or a house ad will be used if applicable. Print Ready Ads 19. Click "Dashboard" To locate this deadline in ARC, click on the dashboard tab from the menu on the left. Click 'Dashboard' 20. View Ads Deadline The ad deadline on the top right will be the deadline date at 11:59pm CST reflected for the following items. Signed contracts, Creative Design Requests, Print Ready Ads, insertion changes and updates. View Ads Deadline 21. Final Ad Proof Approval The Final Ad Proof Approval deadline is the date that ALL ads must have been reviewed by the corporate team and be in approved status by. This date is not listed in a specific menu in ARC but is the last date reflected in the deadline cycle listed in the Publication Deadline Overview. The final Deadline for all cycles is by 10 AM CST on the final deadline date. Final Ad Proof Approval 22. Payment Processing The Payment Processing date is two days after the final ads deadline and the day invoices are issued to advertisers. If clients are set up on automatic payments this is the day our system will attempt to collect payment. Payment attempts will continue until the collections deadline. Invoiced clients will be issued a due upon receipt invoice on this date. Payment Processing 23. The Collections deadline is the final day to clear outstanding balances in order for profits to be included in the commissions payout. 24. Commissions Payout The Commissions Payout date is the date when commissions are distributed to Publishers based on profitable revenue collected during the sales cycle. Only revenue that has been successfully collected within the designated period is considered in the commission calculation, ensuring that payouts reflect actual earnings from completed transactions. Commissions Payout 25. Click "Forecast" To locate the Payment Processing, Collections Deadlines, and Commission Payout Date in ARC click on the Forecast tab from the menu on the left. Click 'Forecast' 26. Click "Forecast" Select Forecast from the options on the top of this screen. Click 'Forecast' 27. View Upcoming Deadlines Invoicing, Collections Due, and Paid dates will reflect in the table on the top right side of the screen. View Upcoming Deadlines 28. Click "Dashboard" You can also find the Collections deadline in the Dashboard tab. Click on the dashboard tab from the menu on the left. Click 'Dashboard' 29. Click "$3,488" The collections deadline will be displayed under the commission box. Click '$3,488' 30. You can find all of these and deadlines and more important dates in the City Lifestyles Deadline document also found in the Training and Documents Tab. 31. Click "Training & Documents" navigate to the training & documents tab. Click 'Training & Documents' 32. Search "deadlines" Search Deadlines in the search field Search 'deadlines' 33. Click "Understanding Publication Deadlines" Select the Understanding Publication Deadlines Title. Click 'Understanding Publication Deadlines' 34. Click "12th - 19th Deadlines" At the bottom of this page chose your deadline dates from the list of options. Click '12th - 19th Deadlines' 35. Click here Your deadlines and other important dates will be available for you to review. Click here 36. Click here Download the PDF for your records Click here This guide covered accessing editorial sections, navigating issues, selecting locations, viewing deadlines, and accessing forecasts in ARC for efficient understanding of publication deadlines. Powered by guidde

Last updated on Jan 12, 2025

How to Enter an Ad Placement Note

How to Enter an Ad Placement Note https://embed.app.guidde.com/playbooks/xoGrnBEkUw4KWemtC8tejm This guide will walk you through how to enter an ad placement note in ARC Go to citylifestylehq.com 1. Why do we use ad placement notes? Why do we use placement notes? The design team uses placement notes during the pagination process of the magazine to place ads in a specific order based on the Publisher's request. Using placement notes allows your team to request placement of an ad prior to Proofing Rounds and avoids wasting edits. Why do we use ad placement notes? 2. Reporting Page In ARC navigate to the Reporting page on the left hand side Reporting Page 3. Generate the "Ad List" report Select the report titled Ad List from the drop down menu Generate the 'Ad List' report 4. Select month/year and click "Display" Select the correct month and year then click Display to generate the report Select month/year and click 'Display' 5. Select your Client Select the Client you are updating the placement note for. Select your Client 6. Select the Agreement Under the Agreements tab, scroll down to select the agreement you would like to modify under "Current Agreements" Select the Agreement 7. Click "View Insertions" Scroll down and click "View Insertions" Click 'View Insertions' 8. Enter the Placement Note Locate the month's insertion you would like to modify and add the placement note under the Notes column. Enter the Placement Note 9. Save Note Scroll down to save the placement note. Once saved, you can go back to the Reporting page and click "Display" again in order to refresh the report and verify your Placement Notes were saved correctly. Save Note This guide walked you through how to enter an ad placement note in ARC. Powered by guidde

Last updated on Jan 12, 2025

Founders Page/Founding Partners Page

Inserting the Founders Page means you will lose 1 page of Ad space. See below: How to Create a Founders Page https://embed.app.guidde.com/playbooks/oSg9L11uJrpPg6YwPM9vNW This guide will walk you through creating a Founders Page in ARC. Go to citylifestylehq.com 1. Creating a Founders Page Creating a Founders Page allows a publisher to recognize the founding partners who contributed to the successful launch of their publication. The Founders Page functions as an ad in your Founders issue. While it's most commonly included in the first issue, some publishers use this opportunity to thank their partners on milestone anniversaries, such as the one-year, five-year, or even ten-year mark. Creating a Founders Page 2. Click "Accounts" In ARC, access the Accounts section. Click 'Accounts' 3. Click "Accounts" Navigate to the Accounts tab. Click 'Accounts' 4. Click "New Account" Click the New Account button on the right hand side. Click 'New Account' 5. Enter Account Information Under the Account Name enter your Publication followed by Founding Partners, such as Blue Spring City Lifestyle Founding Partners. Select any industry, enter a phone number and address. Check the primary contact box and enter your name and email address. Enter Account Information 6. Click "Save" Click Save. Click 'Save' 7. Open "House Account" To create the Zero-Dollar insertion for the Founders Page, open the House Account you just created. Open 'House Account' 8. Click "Agreements" Navigate to the Agreements section. Click 'Agreements' 9. Click "New Print Deal" Click the New Print Deal button on the right hand side. Click 'New Print Deal' 10. Select "One Time" Design Service Under Ad Placements, select a One Time design service. Select 'One Time' Design Service 11. Change fee to $0 Change the first month design fee to $0. Change fee to $0 12. Select your Publication Select the publication you are adding the insertion to. Select your Publication 13. Select "Full Page" placement Select a Full Page insertion placement. Select 'Full Page' placement 14. Select "Open" term Select an Open term. Select 'Open' term 15. Change Investment to $0 and add Placement Note Enter $0 for the investment and Next to Lifestyle Letter in the Placement Notes box. Change Investment to $0 and add Placement Note 16. Add Insertion Add Insertion. Add Insertion 17. Select "No Digital Package" Under Digital Package select No Digital Package. Select 'No Digital Package' 18. Click "Next" Scroll down and click Next. Click 'Next' 19. Click "Sign Now" and change payment to Invoice Click Sign Now and change the payment method to Invoice. Click 'Sign Now' and change payment to Invoice 20. Click "Save and Next" Click Save and Next to proceed. Click 'Save and Next' 21. Click "Next" Select Next on the Account Information page to be taken to the Customer Proposal Page. Click 'Next' 22. Click "Proceed with Plan" On the Customer Proposal page scroll down and click Proceed with Plan. Click 'Proceed with Plan' 23. Click "Invoice" Select the Invoice option under Payment Type. Click 'Invoice' 24. Enter name and email address Enter your name and email address. Enter name and email address 25. Sign the Agreement Sign the agreement, check the Terms and Condition box then click Adopt Signature and Sign. Sign the Agreement 26. Go back to House Account Go back to the Accounts tab in ARC and open the House Account. Go back to House Account 27. Click "Ads" Go to the Ads tab. Click 'Ads' 28. Click "Submit Ad" Click Submit Ad under the Ad Status. Click 'Submit Ad' 29. Select "We'll Create your Ad" Select the We'll Create your Ad option. Select 'We'll Create your Ad' 30. Skip Field #1 In the design request skip the first field Select Your Ad Style as a Founder’s Page is a standardized company designed ad. Skip Field #1 31. Add in Advertisers in Field #2, skip Fields #3 & #4, Add "Founders Page in Field #5 In field #2 Ad Copy type in all of your Advertising Partners company names and their website URLs. Skip fields #3 and #4. And in field #5 Final Designer Notes type Founders Page. Add in Advertisers in Field #2, skip Fields #3 & #4, Add 'Founders Page in Field #5 32. Click "Submit" Click Submit. Click 'Submit' 33. Click "Creative Pending Approval" Your Founders page has been submitted to the design team. The will begin creating a proof for you to approve. Click 'Creative Pending Approval' 34. Example Founders Page Here is an example of a completed Founders Page. Example Founders Page 35. To view proof go to the: Reporting Tab > Ads List > Month/Year > Click on the proof available under Ad Status Once there is a proof, you can request changes to your Founders Page, up to 6 proof rounds and your final deadline date. Once you are satisfied with how the list looks in ARC, approve the Ad for print no later than your final deadline date. You can view your proof in your ads list by going to the Reporting Tab, click Ads List and Month/Year. Click on the proof available ad status under the appropriate account. Once there is a proof, you can request changes to your founders page, up to six proof rounds and your final deadline date. Once you are satisfied with how the list looks in ARC, approve the Ad for print no later than your final deadline date. ![To view proof go to the: Reporting Tab > Ads List > Month/Year > Click on the proof available under Ad Status Once there is a proof, you can request changes to your Founders Page, up to 6 proof rounds and your final deadline date. Once you are satisfied with how the list looks in ARC, approve the Ad for print no later than your final deadline date.](https://static.guidde.com/v0/qg%2FsyEUMF2QgCMIfJrIwzIYSFIiVpE3%2FoSg9L11uJrpPg6YwPM9vNW%2FdDtNx9fDtditzk6cRKPGV5_doc.png?alt=media&token=c80c660f-e32b-4b68-948e-448a6d30429a) This guide walked you through creating a Founders Page in ARC. Powered by guidde

Last updated on Jan 12, 2025

Creative Ad Design Production Process for Clients

A client has a maximum of 6 total Ad Proofs, meaning 5 opportunities for revisions. After the 6th Proof, revisions are locked in the ARC request. The client can put in a ticket to National Support to request further revisions. If more revisions are granted, they will count as an exception. At any moment within the production month a proof should be provided to the client within three business days. Within the department we adhere by the 321 Rule: - 3 business days for a proof, revision, or communication outside of their deadline - 2 business days for a proof or communication within their deadline - 1 business day response for a revision request within their deadline Arc automatically sends out reminders to clients 10 days and 5 days before their deadline every month. Below walks through the ad production process from the clients view: Creative Ad Design Production Process (Client POV) https://embed.app.guidde.com/playbooks/4Xc9ZbkqZmqo7MNr28miAg Welcome to City Lifestyle's Creative Ad Production Process! We'll guide you through each step of the proofing and approval stages, helping you navigate the process smoothly and ensure your ad meets both creative and quality standards while keeping production timelines on track. 1. Understanding Changes in Distribution This production process ensures that your ad design meets both your creative expectations and City Lifestyle's quality standards. With up to six proofing rounds available, you’ll have the opportunity to request changes and approve the final design before it goes to print Understanding Changes in Distribution 2. Request in review Once an ad design request is submitted in the Customer Portal by the first ad deadline, clients will receive an email notifying them that their ad has been submitted and is under review. The status in their customer portal will reflect the request is in review. Request in review 3. Revisions needed If elements are missing or there are errors, the design team will reject the request and notify clients with specific feedback on what needs to be added or corrected. Revisions needed 4. Revision Details Clients should review the feedback, provide the missing information or correct the issues, and resubmit the complete request. Revision Details 5. Design In Progress If all elements are provided, the design team will accept and approve the creative request, and the ad will move to "Design In Progress" status. Clients will receive an email confirming that the design process has started. Design In Progress 6. Proof Available for Review Once the design team is finished with the creation of the ad, they will send email notification that the first proof is ready for review. Clients can log into the portal to review the proof. Proof Available for Review 7. Proof Rounds Upon opening the proof in the Customer Portal, clients can view the current round of proofing, out of six rounds, in the top-left corner of the proof screen. Proof Rounds 8. Requesting Changes If revisions are needed, changes can be requested through the customer portal by clicking on the proof and selecting request changes. Additional files or images can be uploaded and detailed notes need to included in list format to ensure the designer understands what adjusted are wanted without missing any details. Clients should enter all of the desired changes in a single change request to minimize proofing rounds. Requesting Changes 9. Submitting Change Request Once all of the details of the change request have been entered, click submit in the bottom right corner to send the request to the design team for review. Submitting Change Request 10. Request in Review The ad status will change back to "Request in Review" while the designer reviews the changes and begins the production process over again. Request in Review 11. Final Ad Deadline Again, clients are allowed up to six proofing rounds or until their final ads deadline to approve the final ad. Final Ad Deadline 12. Final Approval Once clients are satisfied with the ad design, they need to confirm the ad for print. Final approval must be submitted by the specified deadline. It's important to note that if the ad is not approved by this deadline, the ad will not print and a previously approved ad of the correct size will be rerun if available. If a previous ad is not available, a house ad will run in its place, and the client will still be invoiced for the insertion. Final Approval The guide walked you through the creative ad design process. Powered by guidde

Last updated on Jan 12, 2025

Ads Production FAQ

What are the dimensions and specifications for my ads? - This link below has our ad size specifications. We have also included helpful links on sizing and programs to use. https://www.businesshelp-citylifestyle.com/advertising-specifications Can you create a QR code for my client's ad? Can they include multiple QR codes in one ad? - We do not create QR codes for clients, they must supply and maintain the code themselves. We recommend using www.bitly.com where they can set up a free account and create QR codes with no expiration. - We will accept only a single QR code that links to the client's landing page that can direct readers to their social platforms or website. Where can I access house ads? - You can access the City Lifestyle house ads in ARC: https://citylifestylehq.com/#training/docs/1022/1031 Can you send content violations to my Editor or Publication Director? - Due to the nature of our franchise business model and the diverse communication between our publications, we prefer to address matters such as Content Policy Violations directly with the Publisher. - We understand that time-sensitive issues like these may require prompt action. Please feel free to share this communication with the appropriate team member, and our team will be happy to collaborate with anyone on your team who can help resolve the matter. Why is there an advertisement tag at the top of my client's ad? - Maintaining a clear separation between editorial and advertising content is important for the integrity of our brand. - The decision to place an Advertisement tag at the top of an ad is made by the creative team when an ad too closely resembles the essence of the City Lifestyle visual identity, signaling to our audience that the content they are engaging with is a paid promotion and not part of our editorial offerings. Can I provide inspiration for my client's ad? - We do not create ads using inspiration from sources outside of City Lifestyle. - We encourage you to choose from our extensive template library, which encompasses a variety of styles, formats, and sizes. - Each of our templates are crafted with consideration for our audience and the unique characteristics of our advertising space. What does the "safe zone" mean? - The blue hash measures the safe area and bleeds for print. If ANY text falls within the blue hash, this would be considered outside the safe area and will be cut off in the printing and binding process. Can you create a custom house ad for my magazine? - In an effort to create brand consistency, we will no longer support creation requests for custom or provided house ads. Can you pull the images from this collage photo or PDF? - We cannot take images from PDFs, collages, or provided ads. Please upload the images you would like to use separately. Ensure that all images are larger in size, high quality, and visually clear. - For further explanation on image resolution, please visit https://www.businesshelp-citylifestyle.com/advertising-specifications. Can you pull the images from this folder/link/website? - We do not accept images from links due to the risk of corrupted files or viruses. Please upload the images you would like to use via ARC or the Customer Portal. _ How does the ads team select a past ad to pick up? _ - Our design team selects the most relevant or neutral ad for pickups, avoiding those with expired dates or out-of-season content. If no suitable recent ad is available, we may use one that ran over a month before the current issue. To ensure a specific ad is used, publishers and clients should select their preferred pickup before the final deadline. _ Why was a house ad ran instead of my client's ad? _ - A house ad is used during pickups when a client does not have a previously ran ad for us to use or does not have a previously ran ad in the same size. What is the "new ad revision alert" process? - The production team may flag an ad for a blurry image alerting you for a revision; you can correct the issue and submit a new ad up until your final ad deadline, but, if no new ad is submitted, we will run the submitted ad as is when the final deadline passes. - The revision alert you receive states: "You may correct the issues and submit a new ad until your final ad deadline. Please note that if no new ad is submitted we will run the submitted ad as is." _ Where can I find the production history for a client's ad? _ - When in the tab “Ads” for your respective advertiser, click on the month/year ad of interest, scroll down the page to “History” and expand the section with the down arrow to the right. There you will see from start to finish the progress of an ad that both you and your designer are involved with in producing the final design.

Last updated on Jan 12, 2025

Ad Production Status Descriptions

Production statuses create a structured workflow for clients, publishers, and the production team, ensuring timely, accurate ad submissions and approvals. For clients, they clarify responsibilities at each step, such as submitting materials or approving proofs, reducing delays. For publishers, these statuses offer a system to track client progress, anticipate delays, and support clients proactively. This coordination streamlines production, minimizes errors, and keeps everyone aligned for a successful publication. Ad Production Status Descriptions https://embed.app.guidde.com/playbooks/beugHS8TvWxNs8cKv86hdC This guide will walk you through the different Ad Production Statuses and what they mean and actions to take. Go to citylifestylehq.com 1. Production Statuses Production Statuses create a structured workflow for clients, publishers, and the production team, ensuring timely, accurate ad submissions and approvals. For clients, they clarify responsibilities at each step, such as submitting materials or approving proofs, reducing delays. For publishers, these statuses offer a system to track client progress, anticipate delays, and support clients proactively. This coordination streamlines production, minimizes errors, and keeps everyone aligned for a successful publication. Production Statuses 2. Reporting Page First, we will want to view your Ads List in ARC. To do so navigate to the Reporting page on the left-hand side of the screen. Reporting Page 3. Select the "Ad List" Report Select the "Ad List" report from the drop down menu. Select the 'Ad List' Report 4. Select the Month and Year Select the correct month and year then click "Display" to generate the report. Select the Month and Year 5. Status Column Under the Status column you will see the current status of each client's insertion for that month. Let's quickly breakdown what each status means and actions to take. Status Column 6. Submit Ad (Red Triangle) "Submit Ad" with a red triangle indicates an ad or design request has not been submitted and there is not a previous ad to pick up for that insertion size. This could be due to the client being new or changing their ad size. You will want to reach out to the client reminding them of your ad deadline and to submit an ad or design request. If nothing is submitted or approved by the ad deadline a house ad will be ran. Submit Ad (Red Triangle) 7. Submit Ad "Submit Ad" without a red triangle indicates an ad or design request has not been submitted for that insertion. If nothing is submitted or approved by the final ad deadline a previously ran ad will be picked up. Submit Ad 8. Creative Pending Approval "Creative Pending Approval" indicates that a creative or proof revision request is awaiting designer review. The client should monitor the queue to approve or request revisions promptly. Creative Pending Approval 9. Creative Approved "Creative Approved" indicates the creative request has been reviewed and approved, and design work is underway. The client should monitor for notification of a proof available for review. Creative Approved 10. Needs Revision "Needs Revision" indicates the creative request requires additional materials or clarification, or a client-provided ad needs revisions to meet specifications. The client must provide additional materials or correct their ad to meet specifications and resubmit. Needs Revision 11. Proof Available "Proof Available" indicates a designer has posted a proof for the client’s review. The client must review the proof and either approve it or request revisions. Proof Available 12. Ad Submitted "Ad Submitted" indicates a client-provided ad is uploaded and awaits designer review. The client should monitor for designer feedback and address any required changes. Ad Submitted 13. Ad Approved "Ad Approved" indicates the client’s ad has been reviewed and approved for production, or they’ve approved the design proof. No further action is required from the client. Ad Approved 14. Pickup "Pickup" indicates a previously printed ad is selected by the client or was picked up automatically if no submission is made by the deadline. No further client action is needed. Pickup This guide walked you through how to view and define a client's ad status. Powered by guidde

Last updated on Jan 12, 2025