Outside Panels

• 1). Create a new document using the software of your choice. Orient the page to landscape mode and divide it into three equal columns. The process to accomplish this is different for each type of software on the market, so you'll need to have some working knowledge of your program. The three columns you've made represent the front page, back page and front flap of the inside fold.
  
  
• 2). Build the title page in the right-hand column of your document. Using symbols such as the caduceus, the traditional symbol for medicine, or graphics representing lupus symptoms will help you capture the reader's attention. Be sure the word "Lupus" is prominent so your reader will know what to expect. In discussing "flow," Lisa Graham, author of "Basics of Design: Layout and Typography for Beginners," says focusing attention to the next page will encourage readers to open your brochure and read more.
  
  
• 3). Fill the central column with closing text. This can be a list of organizations such as the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. This column will be the back page of your brochure, so you want to lead people where they can get help or answers to questions. However, this is also the outside cover of your brochure, so you should include information that encourages people to look inside as well. This could be a list of symptoms or a list of people most at risk for the condition.
  
  
• 4). Add compelling information on the left-hand column. This column will be what your reader sees upon opening the brochure. Graphics and text should coordinate with your title page and inside content. Keep the information simple but informative. Effective strategies are to give a definition of the condition, list people at risk or list common symptoms. The Lupus Foundation of America can provide important information of this nature. Be careful not to duplicate the information you provided in the center column. End by directing your reader to the inside information.
  
  

Inside panels

• 1). Create the inside panels by adding a second page to your document. Your program might automatically apply your formatting choices (i.e. landscaped and three columns). You want to keep the landscape layout, but you are no longer limited to three columns.
  
  
• 2). Add the most detailed text of your brochure to the inside area. Information to include here could be forms of the illness, medical treatment, including NSAIDS, anti-malarials, corticosteroids and immunosuppressives, or lifestyle changes that can help keep symptoms under control.
  
  
• 3). Keeping the audience and subject in mind, design your text elements in a pleasing way. You can be as creative as you want in arranging this page. However, you also have the option of keeping the three-column format to give your brochure a page-like feel. Incorporate limited graphics to help direct attention through the text without detracting from the information.
  
  
• 4). Save your work and send the file off to the printers. You can print these at home, but it is generally much more efficient--financially and time-wise--to have professional printers complete the brochure.