Rovani Graphics

Rovani Graphics was hands down the most informational trip we have taken so far. It was a very friendly, family oriented business and the current owner and President, Jim Simpkins seemed thrilled to have us visit. First, he took us in a computer type room where the pages they print are designed. He talked to us about past and current projects, and even told us a story about a time they made a mistake to stress just how important attention to detail is in a printing career. It was very beneficial to hear a story like that because I'm sure attention to detail is important in most any career, especially those in the communication field. Then, Jim took us to the room where all the printing actually goes on. We got to see the different stages of color a page goes through and the workings of an old dark room, which I unfortunately had to skip. Strange doors make me nervous, or something like that. Finally, we saw where they cut and folded their pages (It may seem boring, but was actually very interesting) and met Rovani himself. They sent us off with a picture of us in front of the building, notepads, and a friendly offer to come back and visit anytime. Overall, it was a fun learning experience and I'm definitely glad I went!

Rovani Trip

Who knew so much went on in such a small building?! I found the tour of Rovani Graphics to be very interesting, and well worth the trip. I had never seen anything printed professionally before, so everything my eyes landed on was new to me.
The machines that have been created to cut, count, and put together paper and binding are absolutely amazing. I don't know if I ever really thought that someone actually had the time to stand around and count the number of pages being printed, but I was still surprised to see that there was a digital counter keeping track!
I was impressed by the quailty of the proofs shown to us as examples. The colors in the wedding pictures were so vibrant! As much as I enjoyed seeing the successfully completed jobs, I learned a lot from the stories of failing projects and what must be done to fix problems. The misprinted pages shown to us were major errors, and I couldn't even imagine how it must have felt to be held responsible for something like that. I have tremendous respect for the company for resolving relations with the people affected and remaining in business with them.

On a much lighter note, the little kid in me had a little too much fun using the revolving door to the darkroom!

Rovani Graphics Trip Response

Trip To Rovani Graphics

The trip to Rovani Graphics was very informative and interesting. I have never been through the actual rooms where the printing takes place. In high school I was the editor of the school newspaper. Being the editor, I was in charge of going to the printers and making sure everything turned out the way it was supposed to. I often took trips to the printer, however, I never saw the printing process or be explained how it all exactly works.

Perhaps the most interesting information portrayed to us was the four tone colors and how they come together to form a printed piece of art. It was very informative to see the difference color groupings. In addition to all the factual information given to us, I also found the side stories very appealing.

I found this trip was very beneficial in understanding what really occurs at a printer. I would definitely advice to continue this trip in years to come.

Interview Questions

1. College of Graduation?
2. Year of Graduation?
3. Major?
4. Official job title?
5. How did you achieve your job?
6. What are some skills that you need to hold your job?
7. What happens in your typical work day?
8. What is something you know now, that you wish you knew before?
9. What is the worst thing that has happened to you professionally?
10. What is the best thing that has happened to you professionally?
11. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Interview Due: Friday, April 13th