Planning Your Training Manual
A well-produced training manual enhances learning, improves retention, and reflects professionalism. Whether it's employee onboarding, safety training, or professional development, the production quality matters.
Content Structure
- Table of contents: Essential for navigation in manuals over 20 pages
- Chapter/section dividers: Tabbed dividers for quick reference
- Consistent formatting: Use the same heading styles, fonts, and layouts throughout
- Visual aids: Diagrams, charts, photos, and infographics improve comprehension
- Write-in spaces: For workbook-style manuals, include note areas and exercise sections
- Appendices: Reference sheets, glossaries, and supplemental materials
Choosing the Right Binding
- Coil binding: Best all-around choice — lays flat, folds back, durable. Ideal for reference manuals
- Three-ring binder: Easy to update pages. Best for materials that change frequently
- Perfect binding: Book-quality look. Best for permanent, polished manuals
- Saddle-stitch: Cost-effective for thin manuals (under 64 pages)
Production Tips
- Print a test copy before the full run
- Consider color covers with B&W interior to balance cost and appearance
- Use heavier cover stock (80-100lb) for durability
- Include page numbers and section headers on every page
- Order 10-15% extra for future needs
Get a quote on your training materials — any quantity, any binding.