The Tribune

TrueType is a standard for digital type fonts that was developed by Apple Computer. Each company has made independent extensions to TrueType, which is used in both Windows and Macintosh operating systems.

TrueType fonts can be scaled to any size, and are clear and readable in all sizes. They are the easiest to install, which makes TrueType ideal for those looking to add new fonts to their word processing software.

The TrueType format is a more common format due to the ease of installation, and use in software as the default font.

WHAT IS OPENTYPE?

Open Type is a new standard for digital type fonts, and is a single file that can be used on both Macintosh and Windows platforms without conversion. Open Type has quickly become the industry standard, as it gives designers the ability to use a large amount of storage for additional characters that would have to be distributed separately if saved in TrueType.

Open Type fonts have many advantages over previous font formats because they allow you to access features such as old style figures or true small caps, simply by applying formatting to text.

In most applications that do not actively support such features, Open Type fonts work just like other fonts, although the Open Type layout features are not accessible.

With this in mind, Open Type fonts can also be scaled to any size; are clear and readable in all sizes; and can also be sent to any printer or other output device that is supported by Windows.

Which font format will work best?

It depends. Both formats are very strong on their own, and should be considered as equals. Both file types are common and should be considered industry standard, as they can be distributed between both Macintosh and Microsoft systems.

Nonetheless, if you want a font that prints well and is easy to read on the screen, then consider using a TrueType font. If you need a large character set for language coverage and fine typography, then you might want to use an Open Type font.

If you need to print professional-quality print publications, such as glossy magazines or commercial printing, PostScript is a good choice.

However, from personal experience and depending on what you ae going to be doing with the fonts, Open Type is more likely to be a ‘better’ font. It supports more advanced typesetting feature fonts. Until we meet again, fill your life with memories as opposed to regrets. Enjoy life and stay on top of your game.

• NB: The columnist welcomes feedback at deedee21bastian@gmail.com

ABOUT THE COLUMNIST: Deidre Marie Bastian is a professionally trained graphic designer/marketing co-ordinator with qualifications of M.Sc., B.Sc., A.Sc. She has trained at institutions such as: Miami Lakes Technical Centre, Success Training College, College of the Bahamas, Nova South Eastern University, Learning Tree International, Langevine International and Synergy Bahamas.