This is the reason why your design team hates artwork changes (and how to solve it)

Anyone who has worked in pharmaceutical packaging knows the drill: you think you are done with a design, it’s ready to go, and then… a new change request comes in. And not just any change; a change that involves multiple departments, extensive back-and-forth communication, and, inevitably, hours of work.

This creates a lot of frustration in the design teams. However, it’s not about the design itself. It’s the chaos and frustration that surrounds it. Here is what typically happens when your design team faces an artwork update:

Endless Feedback Loops

Artwork changes are often passed around between multiple departments: Quality, Regulatory, Register, and Commercial/Marketing. Each department reviews, revises, and then sends it back, separately, to the design team with their feedback.

Confusing Version Control

How many times have you heard the phrase, “Which version is this?” With so many hands in the process

and multiple versions of the same artwork flying around, it’s easy to lose track of what’s been approved, what’s in progress, and what’s been rejected. This confusion leads to miscommunication, delays, and errors that ultimately cost time and money.

Last-Minute Legal/Regulatory Changes

Every time there’s a minor legal update or regulatory change (and this happens a lot in pharma), it requires last-minute revisions to packaging. These changes are often urgent, and because they’re so critical to compliance, there’s little room for error. Your designers are expected to respond quickly and get it right the first time, which can be a huge source of stress.

The Fear of Missing Small Details

In pharma packaging, every detail matters. The tiniest mistake in the artwork, whether it’s a text error or a missed symbol, can lead to serious consequences, such as product recalls, regulatory fines, or worse.

Design teams know this, and that’s why the pressure of making those changes without missing anything is enough to make them dread the entire process.

So, what is the solution?

The good news is that there’s a way to make artwork management easier, faster, and less stressful for everyone involved.

The key is to centralize and streamline the process using an Artwork Management platform designed specifically for the pharma industry. Here’s how it works:

Centralized Feedback and Approvals

Instead of bouncing emails back and forth and risking confusion, an artwork management platform allows you to centralize all feedback and approval processes in one place. This ensures that all stakeholders – regulatory teams, quality, medical affairs, or marketing – can review and approve changes in real-time, without missing anything.

Full Version Control and Traceability

With a centralized platform, version control becomes simple. Every change is tracked, and all stakeholders can see the latest updates clearly, and in one single place. You’ll no longer need to ask, “Which version is this?” or risk working with outdated designs.

This feature also gives you a clear audit trail, ensuring that you can quickly trace any movements made to the artwork, which is especially critical in a heavily regulated industry like pharma.

Speeding Up Time-to-Market

When artwork approvals happen faster, your products get to market quicker. An effective artwork management solution can cut down approval times by up to 60%*, which means your design team can focus on important work without being bogged down by endless approval processes.

Ensuring Regulatory Compliance

Pharma packaging needs to comply with a lot of regulatory standards. With the right system in place, your design team doesn’t have to worry about missing critical updates. Everything is built to ensure compliance, making the process smoother and reducing the chances of mistakes that could lead to recalls or legal issues.

How can an artwork management system benefit your design team?

When your design team is freed from the constant back-and-forth, version confusion, and last-minute changes, they can focus on what they do best : creating designs that stand out on the shelf.

By simplifying the artwork management process, you’re not only reducing the stress on your design team but also improving overall efficiency and product quality.

* https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-does-artwork-management-software-affect-bottom-line-mansi-s-/

Ready for the next step?

If you want to see how pharma companies are improving their artwork management processes, and making life easier for their design teams, let’s talk. https://www.twonas.com/contact/

December 31, 2024January 6, 2025

2024 … 2025

As this year comes to an end, we want to take a moment to reflect on the months past and thank our clients for their continuous support and confidence in Twona.

The last months we have released a lot of new functionality improvements (you can check some of them here: https://www.twonas.com/updates/), many of them as a result of customer feedback. For us this is a fantastic result, to be able to collaborate with clients to make our tool even more robust and better fitting the industry needs. This also shows that our customers do not see the limitations but mostly the possibilities that the tool offers to their daily work, which makes us extremely happy.
Some of the work that was performed by the team was also not visible, but changes in infrastructure have made Twona even more robust and faster to the end user.

We also completed several new implementations, a few of which are considered some of the most complex we have worked on so far – and in record time, too! Those included not only configuration of several work processes, as well as complex permissions and automations, but also data migration and validation services. If you did not know we offer a validation service, download our white paper : Fast track validation, or contact us.

Our sales team was present at several events and exhibitions, where they were able to meet new prospective customers (some of which are now clients ❤️ ) as well as existing users of the platform. We are currently finalizing the list of events we will be attending in 2025. If you are attending any events next year, share those with us, we would love to meet you there face to face!

All the team has been working on multiple tasks, diversifying in some cases from their regular daily jobs, and with a lot of involvement in daily operations, to understand better what the clients need and what situations they encounter, so we can serve current and future customers better.

We are extremely proud of our client reviews, not only on our testimonials, but also on their NPS scores which keep improving over time (NPS of 68 for 2024); we do take feedback seriously, so we can make an even better Twona for our users.

We are looking forward to 2025, and to continue building a better Twona and growing our customer and partner base. We hope you will be around to see it all happening!

May 21, 2024May 17, 2024

Seamless Connectivity: Elevating Packaging Design Efficiency through API Integration

Image: Joshua-sortino-LqKhnDzSF-8-unsplash

If you work in packaging design, you will be familiar with the fact that efficiency is not just a preference—it’s a competitive necessity. As design processes become more complex, you will experience a growing need for seamless connectivity with other systems. This is where the transformative power of API integration enters into the picture, as it elevates packaging design efficiency to new heights.

The Imperative of Connectivity in Packaging Design

The complexity of modern packaging design involves collaboration among diverse stakeholders, integration with workflow systems, and adherence to compliance standards. The traditional siloed approach falls short in meeting the demands of today’s fast-paced design environment. This is where API integration shows up to the party, as technological bridge that connects various components of the design process and enhances overall efficiency.

Understanding API Integration in Packaging Design

1. What is API Integration?

API (Application Programming Interface) integration is the connection between different software applications in a transparent manner. It allows these systems to communicate, share data, and work cohesively without manual intervention.

2. The Role of API in Packaging Design

In the context of packaging design, API integration enables the Artwork Management system to connect with other crucial components of the design workflow. This includes collaboration tools, project management systems, and even external databases.

3. Elevating Efficiency

Why does it become such an important tool? API integration eliminates manual data transfers and the need for multiple platforms. It ensures that data flows effortlessly between systems, reducing the risk of errors and accelerating the design process.

The Impact of API Integration on Packaging Design Efficiency

1. Streamlined Workflow

API integration streamlines the entire design workflow. From initial concept to final approval, the interconnected systems ensure a smooth progression without unnecessary delays.

2. Real-Time Collaboration

Collaborative tools integrated through APIs facilitate real-time communication and feedback. Stakeholders can seamlessly collaborate, providing instant feedback without the need for constant updates or meetings.

3. Version Control Mastery

API integration ensures that version control is centralized and synchronized across all connected systems. This eliminates version conflicts and ensures that all stakeholders are working with the latest design iteration.

4. Compliance Assurance

In industries with strict regulatory requirements, API integration helps in maintaining compliance. Data can be automatically validated and synced with external compliance databases, reducing the risk of errors.

Implementing API Integration in Packaging Design

Ok, I am sold! What do I need to do to get API Integration in place? – you may wonder.

1. Identify Integration Points

Identify key areas in your design workflow where integration with external systems can enhance efficiency. This might include collaboration tools, project management platforms, or databases containing regulatory information.

2. Choose the Right API

Select APIs that align with the needs of your design process. Ensure that they offer the necessary functionalities and are scalable to accommodate future changes in your workflow.

3. Seamless Integration

Work with your IT and design teams to ensure a seamless integration process. Testing and refining the integration are essential to guarantee a smooth workflow.

So, connect, integrate, and witness how the power of API elevates your packaging design efficiency to unprecedented levels.

January 12, 2024May 17, 2024

Mastering Packaging Version Control through Artwork Management

Precision and consistency are essential for a good packaging design, which makes version control keystone in the creative process. Any misstep in managing design versions can lead to costly errors, delays, and even brand integrity issues. Artwork Management plays a critical role in mastering packaging version control, even if most of the times, this role is seen as a silent hero as it is rather transparents for users of these systems.

The Challenge of Packaging Version Control

Design projects, especially in industries like pharmaceuticals, retail, and food production, often involve numerous stakeholders contributing feedback, revisions, and updates. The result? A myriad of design versions that need to be tracked, compared, and managed efficiently. Failure in version control can result in:

Inconsistencies: Different versions may introduce inconsistencies in branding, messaging, or design elements.
Delays and Revisions: Unclear version control often leads to delays as teams struggle to identify the latest approved version.
Quality Issues: Printing or production errors may occur if the wrong version makes it to the final stages.

Artwork Management’s Crucial Role

Artwork Management systems provide a structured and organized approach to the complex process of design iteration. Here’s how:

1. Centralized Repository:

Artwork Management systems serve as a centralized hub for all design versions. Every iteration, feedback, or change is documented and stored in an organized manner, eliminating the chaos of scattered files.

2. Version Tracking:

The ability to track changes across design versions is fundamental. Artwork Management systems meticulously record modifications, allowing teams to trace the evolution of a design from inception to approval.

3. Collaboration without Confusion:

In collaborative design processes, multiple individuals may be working on different aspects simultaneously. Artwork Management systems facilitate collaboration without the risk of conflicting versions, ensuring that everyone is on the same page.

4. Seamless Approval Processes:

Efficient version control streamlines the approval process. Stakeholders can review and approve the latest version without ambiguity, reducing bottlenecks and speeding up the journey from design to production.

Realizing the Benefits: From Efficiency to Compliance

1. Enhanced Efficiency:

Efficient version control translates to faster approval cycles, reduced back-and-forth, and a more streamlined design process. This efficiency is invaluable in industries where time-to-market is a critical factor.

2. Error Reduction:

By providing a clear history of design changes, Artwork Management systems significantly reduce the likelihood of errors making it into the final production stage. This ensures a higher level of quality and consistency in the end product.

3. Compliance Assurance:

Certain industries, such as pharmaceuticals, require stringent compliance with regulations. Artwork Management systems provide the necessary documentation and audit trails, ensuring that the design process aligns with regulatory standards.

Integration with Workflow: A Synergistic Approach

Artwork Management’s role in version control becomes even more potent when seamlessly integrated with a workflow management tool. This synergy ensures that version control is not a standalone process but an integral part of the broader design and approval workflow.

If you also want to embrace the advantages of Artwork Management in your packaging design process, and witness how mastering version control becomes the cornerstone of a successful and precise creative journey, do not hesitate to check Twona AMS, which integrates artwork management, workflow management, version control and approvals under one single roof.

July 3, 2023May 17, 2024

How user friendly is your packaging?

Consumers value convenience when deciding what products to use. Or more importantly,
“Consumers might not always be aware of the importance of convenience in their behavior until it is absent. “
Importance of Convenience in Consumer Behavior (analyticssteps.com)

I don’t know about you, but I recently left a beautiful and perfect size lunch-box on the shelf because I struggled to open it when I tried to see the inside. And I hate it when opening a product outer packaging becomes a fight between me and the cardboard or plastic around it, but love the easiness of a little pull-me tab to tear the top so my purchase magically appears.

What are some elements that make product packaging user-friendly for me?

Easy-to-Open Designs

As mentioned, being able to open the packaging without it becoming a fight or having to read thru confusing instrutions, makes the whole world when you first are presented with a product. That creates a positive first impression and contributes to overall customer satisfaction.

Unboxing videos would not be so popular would you be seeing someone tear down cardboard and dangling with scissors to break into the purchased goods. Packaging that guarantees a quick access, an organized product structure, and is not too fragile to damage by mistake is crucial for customer retention and brand loyalty.

This is not always simple, specially when it comes to fragile goods that could damage during transportation, as even if the immediate product packaging may be friendly, the outer package could be a total nightmare. Therefore, manufacturers must consider the strength and integrity of the packaging to prevent accidental opening during transportation and storage while ensuring that end-users can open it effortlessly, which proves to be difficult to achieve sometimes.

Some elements that you may consider to make your packaging easy to open are:

Tear strips and perforations
Pull tabs or finger lifts
Textured or embossed easy-grip features
Easy-to-peel seals, such as peel-off stickers or tape
Push-button releases

Resealable packaging

Packaging that cannot be resealed often means that consumers need to use other materials to reseal your product, or need to use a different container for it once opened, which defeats all your branding efforts.

Some products require to be re-sealed after each use, to preserve freshness or to prevent spills like personal care items, pet supplies, and household cleaners. Following in the convenience clause, your clients would appreciate being able to reseal the package without having to transfer the contents into additional containers.

Incorporate resealable closures, such as zippers, snaps, adhesive or magnetic strips; This allows users to open and close the packaging multiple times without compromising its integrity!

But this is easier said than done, as effective resealable packaging requires careful material selection and design considerations to maintain the integrity of the seal and prevent leakage, which also goes hand in hand with regulations about product safety or that increase the risk of tampering.

Additionally, manufacturers must conduct rigorous testing to ensure the resealing mechanism functions as intended throughout the product’s lifespan – this is not always the case when the re-seal gets in contact with “the elements” around it.

This often means that good resealing options come with a cost, and this is why they are not used YET on so many of the daily need products, but we start to see these in luxury or non-essential products. The trend is there, and as long as research continues and there is investigation into new ways of resealing products, and maybe some regulations come in to place, we will see these spread to essential products in due time.

Ergonomics

Ergonomics play a crucial role in user-friendly packaging, especially for products that consumers handle regularly or for extended periods. For example, in personal care products or household tools, ergonomic packaging reduces strain on users’ hands and provides a comfortable grip, enhancing the overall user experience. This is why ergonomic packaging will not only enhances the user experience but also demonstrates a brand’s commitment to customer satisfaction and well-being, making it a reason for staying loyal to a brand or product.

Manufacturers must carefully assess the target audience’s needs and preferences when designing ergonomic packaging. Conducting user testing and incorporating feedback during the design process can lead to packaging that aligns with consumers’ physical requirements and enhances usability.

Some ideas of ergonomic packaging that you can incorporate into your packaging

Soft-touch surfaces or materials, that enhance the tactile experience, and making the product comfortable to handle.
Curved edges and corners that make the packaging safer to handle.
Grip indentations that help handle the packaging securely and comfortably
Packaging that can be opened, closed, or dispensed with just one hand
Include handles into your packaging for easier handling and weight distribution

What are some innovations that you are carrying into your packaging design to make sure that it ticks all the boxes for convenience for your target group? How are you incorporating feedback from them into your design efforts? And finally, how are you making sure that the packaging meets all the regulations and brand requirements when it comes to these user-friendly elements?

June 5, 2023

Ensuring Regulatory Compliance in your Packaging Artworks

If you follow us in Social Media (if you do not, this is the time! Follow now) you would have seen a quick poll we had where we were asking what are the main challenges you face when launching a new product. Majority of the responses went about “meeting all the regulations”. Indeed, due to the highly regulated industry, pharmaceutical packaging is not a simple one to tackle, and it makes it essential for packaging artwork coordinators to have a good understanding of the complex regulatory requirements governing pharmaceutical packaging. So, what it is exactly you need to pay attention to?

Labeling Requirements

One very important aspect of pharmaceutical packaging compliance is adhering to labeling requirements, which are likely to differ from country to country or region to region. It is crucial to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations governing your target market. Some common labeling elements are:

Drug Name and Strength: to be clearly and prominently displayed on the primary packaging.
Indications and Usage: accurate information regarding the approved indications for use of the medication.
Dosage Instructions: recommended dosage, frequency, and administration route.
Storage Instructions: appropriate storage conditions to maintain the drug’s stability and efficacy.
Expiration Date: expiry date prominently displayed to ensure patients use the medication before it becomes ineffective.

Warning Statements

It is important to include warning statements where applicable, to communicate potential risks and ensure patient safety:

Contraindications: Clearly state any circumstances under which the medication should not be used.
Side Effects: comprehensive list of potential side effects and instructions for managing them.
Allergies: any known allergens or substances that may cause an allergic reaction should be highlighted.
Drug Interactions: if interactions with other medications, supplements, or substances are identified, these need to be mentioned.
Special Populations: these are specific instructions for groups such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, or elderly patients, amongst others.

Package Inserts

Package inserts or leaflets provide a wealth of information to patients and healthcare professionals. If you incorporate an insert or leaflet in your product packaging, consider the following:

Information should be organized in a clear and legible manner, using appropriate font sizes and layout.
Comprehensive Product Information: the information provided should not leave doubts to interpretation and should not leave the patient with questions about usage or contraindications.
Provide detailed instructions on dosage, administration, and any special considerations.
List potential side effects, their frequency, and steps to take if they occur.
Include contact details for reporting adverse events or seeking additional information.

Working with Regulatory Agencies

Finally, one way of making sure that you remain compliant with packaging regulations is having a good relationship with regulatory bodies and agencies that lead in your area of operation. You can achieve this by staying up to date with regulatory changes and engaging with the regulatory agencies early in the process to seek guidance and clarification, in a proactive manner. In order to do this, you will need to identify the right contacts in the regulatory agency, and maintain open communication lines so that when you have comments, queries or concerns, you do not loose valuable time trying to find the right person to answer. Also important is to be acquainted with their submission timelines, so when you need to submit artworks and documentation for approval, no deadlines are missed and approvals are provided in time. This is very relevant since failing to reach approval deadlines can mean that your product will no go to market when planned, with the implications of costs and process loss that this entails. When submitting these, not only timing is important, but you should also pay attention to the accuracy of all materials (artworks, texts,…) so that there is no way they are sent back/rejected. Finally, it is important that you realize that being in this industry means that you will be audited periodically; this means that maintaining comprehensive records, documentation, and an organized system for tracking changes on your artworks is of main importance!

Although the landscape of pharmaceutical packaging regulations is complex, using best practices and understanding these key areas would make your work much easier, ensuring that you safely and effectively delivery medications to patients worldwide.

May 22, 2023May 22, 2023

Transparency in packaging

If you are following packaging trends this year, one that stood out to me was the use of transparent packaging. With all the information that normally comes together on a product packaging, I feel that using a transparent one can be a big challenge for brands. However, I can see how using it also has a few advantages, which may outgrow the difficulties when it comes to sales and brand adherence.

Why would you should consider using transparent packaging, you ask? I bring you a few ideas on why this may be important for your product:

design award pasta https://competition.adesignaward.com/design.php?ID=52197

Having a clear packaging allows customers to “peek” into the product before purchasing, so they are able to better identify product ingredients, colors, texture, format… which can help verify that it meets their expectations and guide their buying decision. What you see is then what you get, there is no room for interpretation.
A transparent packaging transforms the product itself in a visual element of the packaging design. For the beauty and cosmetics markets, where the product is often visually appealing, creating an idea of luxury, having transparent packaging can help drive more attention on to the shelves. But other industries have jumped to this wagon lately and food brands have for instance. also been more creative in how they were showing their product inside the packaging, making it stand out in a fun way. See example of Pasta Nikita.
Transparency can create a sense of honesty and openness between the brand and the customer, building up trust in the brand. It gives an idea to the buyer that there is nothing to hide and that your brand believes so much in their product they are showing it to you “naked” from other elements that will distract you from the product itself.
If you are looking at making your product look and feel premium or high-end, transparent packaging is a way to go, as it often gives products a sleek and modern appearance. This can communicate quality and sophistication, which can translate into your ideal customer base and your product price tag.

As mentioned, brands will still need to make sure that they fit all required information into their (transparent) packaging. Here are some ideas on how to make this work:

Use labels in a strategic way, place them where they don’t obstruct the view of the product such as the side or bottom of your packaging, or use smaller labels (using expansible ones).
Print onto the packaging: using screen printing or an inkjet printer that can print directly onto plastic or other materials you can include the information directly into the packaging with color contrast.
What about clear stickers or holograms? These can be attached over the packaging to provide the necessary regulatory details without obstructing the view of the product. This approach can be effective for adding required information, such as product expiration dates or manufacturing details that may be necessary to add at the end point of the printing process, and do not need to have a beautiful design, but be practical.
Use QR Codes to bring customers to less relevant information. Using QR Codes is one of the Smart packaging initiatives that many companies have started using. With limited space, and lots to tell, technology can be your friend and a simple click can bring you to a wealth of information about the product. Think of adding details about the ingredients, giving ideas on recipes to combine with the product, or including information on a contest. Rather than cramping your package with all this, you can easily refer to it on a QR code and direct people to your website.
Use packaging inserts: if online seems a little bit too fancy or your target audience is not that tech savvy, there is always the option for old fashioned paper inserts. Usage instructions, warnings, ingredients, an upcoming event, or a contest… all can be advertised through an insert included inside of the packaging or attached to the outer side of the packaging, as long as it does not obstruct the actual product view.
Use textured packaging: with embossing or debossing on your packaging you will be able to add a texture to it, making it a product customers will want to touch and hold. It is unusual, and it brings an extra sense into the product experience, touch.

There are probably more ideas on how to make a transparent packaging work and still make sure you follow the regulations and include all mandatory information, without losing quality and attractiveness on your product. If you are using something else than the suggestions above, will you let me know? I am really interested in learning more on how to make a product stand out without cluttering the packaging and making your brand show transparency and trustworthiness through it. You can also share examples of transparent packaging that are working out for you/other brands you admire, or that simply made you laugh.

If you are interested in the topic and want to read more about “How seeing products on, or through, the packaging influences consumer perceptions and purchase behavior” take a look at the Oxford published paper here. Enjoy!

May 12, 2023May 12, 2023

5 best practices for artwork coordinators to ensure packaging consistency

Image generated with MidJourney

Having a consistent brand experience is one important element for your product success in the market. Achieving this is not always easy, specially when companies have a multitude of products in different categories, or products that are targeted at different customer groups, when they use many different designers/agencies, and specially, when deadlines are tight. As an artwork coordinator, you have to bridge those gaps and make sure that your brand stands out, and is recognizable throughout all your different product lines, without incoherences and mistakes.

These 5 best practices can help you get there!

1. Define brand guidelines

We have talked about brand guidelines before. A complete brand book will contain the rules and directions on how to use design elements like typography, colors, imagery and logos, as well as define the brand tone of voice and messaging, so that the brand values and image are easily recognizable by the product users. Artwork coordinators need to have a deep knowledge of the guidelines, how to implement them, and when exceptions can be made. It is your job to make sure that the brand guidelines are complete, and cover all possible packaging scenarios, so that when new products are introduced, their packaging design is easily replicated with its specific differences and nuances.

2. Use consistent templates

Once you have your brand guidelines in place, you should make sure to develop templates that make your work easier when creating new artworks; that way, you can be sure that all your product line will have a similar look and feel. The templates can have locked out elements like the placement of logos, product name, or key visual elements, so that you can be sure that those align perfectly.

Not sure how you feel about it, but I hate when I purchase a bag of chick-pea crisps and a bag of lentil crisps from the same company, and the packaging is “slightly off”, with small detail things like: a logo is bigger in one bag than in the other, or moved to the side, or the key selling point of the product appears on a particular font or color, and these do not match. Clients notice these small things, and they are annoyed by them. At least, clients like me :D!

3. Work closely with designers

If you are not acting as a designer as well (which let’s be honest, happens quite often to artwork coordinators), you will certainly be working with them very closely, to create the packaging artworks.

It is of absolute importance that the guidelines are understood by the design team, so you should make it a priority to teach them about the guidelines, not just show them where the brandbook document is stored (*yes, I know you have done this before, it is ok, that is why I am here to let you know that you need to stop doing that and provide proper training on your brand guidelines).

Additionally, you also should make sure that they have all in their possession all key brand elements: logos in the right size and formats, fonts that they will need to use, color codes for RGB/CMYK, image bank/library access, design tool licenses… so that the quality of what they produce can be up to standards.

4. Conduct regular reviews

Once the packaging design is completed and in use, it is not crazy to plan periodical reviews. One clear scenario for this is when you are working with different designers/studios, or when you recently changed providers, so that you can compare their adherence to the guidelines and verify that brand consistency remains intact. It is also possible that over time, your guidelines evolve as your brand does, and this is also a moment when reviewing your packaging design would be needed, so that any changes implemented in the guidelines can also be put in place in your packaging moving forward.

These changes can also be driven by new regulations that require new icons/information on your packaging, and without a proper review, some of your artworks could be deviating from the way you want them to be created, just due to lack of communication about the changes, country-specific regulations, or others. It is your job as an artwork coordinator to have this under control, and ensure that the packaging effectively communicates the product’s value proposition at any given time.

5. Ensure consistent production

In the end, what the client will see is what they can get their hands on, so the final product on the shelves. For multiple reasons, the production of different products of your portfolio may not take place in the same printer, or production facility , which means that the printing or quality standards may vary. Because products end up sitting next to each other on the shelves, it is possible that two variations of a product / different line of a product, end up showing small (hopefully) differences in the final sold product.
Consistency of the final product with the approved artwork is key to a positive brand image. This is why it is often important to be able to compare the final product (e.g from a photo of a box, wrapping, bottle, can…) with the final approved artwork. This is something that you can for instance do with Twona X-RAY, a complete Artwork and Graphic Design Comparison Platform that helps you effortlessly review your text, graphics, and final packaging.

Compare your final product with your artwork files

Packaging consistency is therefore a matter of aligning multiple stakeholders and making sure they all adhere to the brand standard, templates and guidelines defined by your company. It involves activities such as information sharing, training, and reviews (multiple rounds) that often fall on the task list of an artwork coordinator, while juggling other many tasks and deadlines. The job of the artwork coordinator is a complex one, as we explained before!

Following these 5 best practices, we are sure that you will achieve more consistency in your packaging design and new product launch. Do you have any other tips to share with fellow artwork coordinators?

April 17, 2023

Alternative solutions for pharmaceutical packaging to serve an ageing population (*)

(*) and those of any age with impaired visibility

By 2030, 1 in 6 people in the world will be aged 60 years or over
World Health Organization

As the global population ages, the demand for medication will also increase. Already 10 years ago, some 87 % of people aged 75 years or more reported using prescribed medicines on a regular basis (Ageing Europe report, 2020 edition). This number is only expected to rise. As a marketer, I see this as a clear change in the target audience for pharmaceutical and life sciences companies, a change that needs to be accompanied with support on the product side for the unique requirements of older people.

This includes packaging of the products, of course, which require innovative solutions to meet the needs of a new target group while providing all crucial and mandatory information, and do so in multiple languages.

Font sizes

One of the areas where improvements may be needed is readability of the product information. While the standard clear print size for fonts to be readable is established at 12 points, this is by far not the norm in pharmaceutical leaflets, labels and others, where sizes of 7 to 9 points are more the average (this can be even smaller for food packaging, but that is a story for a different post!).

Of course, it is understandable that they are dealing with space limitations to provide a very large amount of information that is critical (and non-optional). However, due to this criticality, it is of importance that the user of the product would be able to read it properly.

Solutions like Attach-A-Leaflet®, which allows for a multi-page label to be used in a product, can help with increasing the font size while keeping packaging small.

Images/illustrations

Another aspect to help with readability, is making the leaflets easier to decipher. In general, medicine leaflets are difficult to understand for the average Joe/Jane. If the average Joe/Jane is also on the older spectrum, the difficulty increases. This is why, using images in leaflets can help translate some of the complex terms into relatable instructions to follow, making it more accesible to a wider audience.

Creating clear, easy to understand, and attractive-looking images/illustrations that support the application instructions of medicines can suppose a significant improvement for the end-user. On the packaging design sign, adding illustrations to leaflets represents an extra layer in the packaging design; however, these illustrations do not need to be changed frequently, they can be outsourced or purchased to a third party specialized in creating these sort of materials (hint: we can offer you these services, but of course, feel free to do extended research).

Images of instructions to use a nasal spray — Image by Twona

Personalized packaging

Personalization is a growing marketing trend in multiple industries, as a way to distinguish yourself from competitors. In Pharma, this personalization may come with an added value of tailoring the packaging to the individual patient needs, through the use of technology. Think of including personal medication dosages, intake instructions, or reminders to take medication.

When thinking of personalized packaging, these are some of the forms it can take:

Pre-packaged Medication

The main use of pre-packaged medication is to dispense medication into individual packages, which contain information such as the patient’s name, administration instructions and dosage in a personalized label. The main objective of these labels is to ensure patients are taking the correct (amount of) medication, so the risk of medication errors is reduced.

Electronic Medication Dispensers

In addition to pre-packaged medication, technology can also make sure that medicines are dispensed automatically to the patient at specific times, reminding patients to take medication, and providing alerts if a dose is missed. Electronic medication dispensers can be programmed to this purpose.

Smart Packaging solutions

Another idea to make packaging of medicines more accesible is to introduce the so-called Smart Packaging solutions. These innovative solution utilizes technology to provide drug users with individualized information about their medication. These can be interactive features such as audio or visual instructions such as dosage instructions and potential side effects, that are specific to the patient’s personal needs. For older people who may not be able to read small print or forget complex medication regimens, Smart packaging can give users the confidence that they are taking the correct medication at the right time, reducing the risk of medication errors.

What types of Smart packaging can be used?

Interactive Packaging: videos, animations… in the form of augmented reality (AR) and accessed through a smartphone or tablet that can educate patients about their medication.
Near Field Communication (NFC) Packaging: allows patients to receive information on their mobile device about dosage, potential side effects, and other important information.
QR Code Packaging: Patients can scan the QR code, and access information about the medication, including dosage instructions and potential side effects.

Extending braille beyond the box

“The name in Braille does not have to be printed on the immediate packaging – such as blisters, ampoules and bottles, it only has to appear on the outer/secondary packaging, which is normally a carton”.
Guidance concerning the Braille requirements for labelling and the package leaflet

While not mandatory, extending braille beyond the traditional use of embossing it on the boxes, would make these more accesible to an older generation with – quite frequently – an impaired sight, giving the more independence to manage their medical needs in a safely manner . Here are some examples:

Blisters and caps: braille added on blisters holding individual pills or medication caps would allow individuals to identify medicines by touch.
Labels and leaflets: adding braille to the medication labels and leaflets would allow visually impaired individuals to access information such as dosage, expiry dates, warnings, contraindications, side effects…
Vials: the use of braille in vials could be limited to information such as name, expiry date, dosage

These are some of the ideas that come to mind in order to make pharmaceutical packaging design more accesible to the needs of the ageing population (although already without thinking about a user of age, the blind and visually impaired would benefit from these improvements on a daily basis!). Ideally, everything would be implemented in the future but I would be happy to see small steps towards that goal, and legislation coming into place to make more of these “nice to haves” mandatory moving forward. What is your take on this?

April 13, 2023

Striking the Right Balance: Key Aspects of Designing SOPs for Pharmaceutical Packaging

Designing packaging materials for pharmaceutical brands can be a meticulous and complex process. As a designer working for a studio that works exclusively with pharma, my work primarily involves implementing a strict set of rules on various packaging materials that will be commercialized across different markets. To keep everything in check, in my team we write SOPs tailored to each customer. In this article, I’ll discuss the key aspects we consider when writing those SOPs and comment on the balance between effectiveness and completeness.

Clarity and Simplicity

The first aspect to consider when writing a design SOP is clarity and simplicity. The document should be easy to understand and follow for all team members, regardless of their expertise or experience. If a Junior designer cannot follow the document, then it does not fulfils its purpose. This can be achieved by using clear language, avoiding jargon, and providing visual examples when necessary. An image might be worth a thousand words. An effective SOP should prioritize essential information and avoid excessive detail to ensure that it remains concise and focused. If complex details are needed, you can always reference a more complex or complete document such as complete brand design guideline.

Compliance with Brand Guidelines and Regulatory Requirements

Pharmaceutical packaging must adhere to both the company’s brand guidelines and the regulatory requirements of the target market. It also needs to comply with all technical specifications from the manufacturing entity. A design SOP should provide clear instructions on how to maintain consistency with the company’s visual identity and fulfill the necessary legal obligations. This includes guidelines on colors, fonts, logos, and layout, as well as any specific labeling requirements mandated by law. And these change per country! Templates are in this case VERY useful.

Adaptability for Different Formats and Materials

We deal with packaging in various formats and materials, such as boxes, bottles, and blister packs. An effective design SOP should account for these variations and provide guidance on how to adapt designs accordingly. If you ever faced implementing a tini tiny label, then you know what it’s like. This may involve including modular design elements that can be easily rearranged or resized to fit different formats. Again, templates are your friend.

Revision and Update Process

Finally, a design SOP should include a clear process for revising and updating the document. This is crucial to ensure that the SOP remains relevant and up-to-date with any changes in brand guidelines, regulatory requirements, or industry best practices. This is particularly critical if your studio is ISO compliant. It is as important to make the right changes as to track who made those changes and why.

Striking the Right Balance

An effective and useful design SOP should provide enough information and guidance to ensure that all team members can create consistent, compliant, and technically correct packaging materials. However, it’s essential to strike the right balance between providing necessary details and overwhelming the reader with excessive information. An over-complete SOP may lead to confusion, inconsistencies, and a slower design process. By focusing on the key aspects outlined above, you can create an SOP that is both comprehensive and efficient, ensuring that your pharmaceutical packaging designs meet the highest standards.

If you are unsure as to what is the right level of detail, use an Agile process. Write a draft, let your team use it, get feedback and refine the document iteratively.

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Do you feel stuck with your current design process? Reach out to our studio and let us give you a hand. We can help you implement artworks or improve your studio processes.

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