I’m just going to start with “Absolutely Brilliant”. Over the years I’ve relied on Noel over and over again to deliver on designs and each time my expectations for outcomes were more than exceeded. Exceptional quality with no sacrifice to details or deadlines. There were times when I had a vague idea of what I wanted and each time Noel put together designs that were so good it was hard to choose between them. From CD cover designs, logo’s, complex pamphlet designs, books and book covers the lot. Outstanding visuals of the highest quality. When colours on the covers needed to be perfect, he sat with the printers to make sure everyone got it right on their end. Communication is key for me when it comes to working with people so to have a designer willing to listen, come up with flexible ideas and get back to you asap, that’s team work. I cannot recommend Noel highly enough; you will be in excellent hands! You are highly gifted in your craft Noel. Thanks Noel for being there throughout the years !!!!
Carin Maehr: Artist/Owner - Daisy Collection
I have had the great pleasure of working with Noel for over 15 years – and continue to be astounded by his impeccable industry knowledge, hard work and attention to detail. Initially, I knew him as a colleague but for the past few years, I’ve been one of his clients. His vast knowledge of print, litho and digital, has been my saving grace on many occasions and his patience has been crucial for dealing with the fast-paced, high-stress work I’ve sent his way. Noel’s fine grasp of the creative process and his deep understanding of the nuances of client expectations – when they themselves are not able to formulate their ideas into words – is remarkable. I look forward to working with him for many more years to come and know that I’m in the company of his other clients in saying so.
Pam Viljoen: Owner - PrintLogic
I have known Noel McShane for many years, as I have had all my books printed by Creda Communications. Noel always went through the books as pre-print and advised me of corrections and styles that needed change to enhance the books. He even submitted design suggestions - which were always far better than mine - and which I used. I have always found Noel to be patient, good humoured, and a good listener. I also noticed that he has the respect of his staff and fellow workers. His technical knowledge with machinery and software applications are excellent. And he is continually keeping up-to-date with modern trends.
Tony Nunn: Westby-Nunn Publishers
In 2017 our company published a book called ‘Clementina van der Walt - A Ceramic Journey ‘. The printing was carried out by Creda Communications in Cape Town where Noel McShane was the project manager. From the start, Mr McShane was extremely efficient, courteous and completely committed to the project. He went out of his way to explain all the processes involved allowing us to be present during the crucial stages. The outcome was that he facilitated the professional printing of an exceptionally beautiful coffee table book which we treasure. Mr McShane is a skilled all rounder in the printing industry with decades of experience as well as up to date knowledge of the latest technology. He would be a huge asset to any company both as a hands on facilitator and an overall project manager.
Clementina Van Der Walt: Owner - Clementina van der Walt Ceramics
Noel, your intellectual grasp of the organisational principles that underlie all the projects, as well as your design skills, have taken our original concept to a whole new level.
Owen Hendry: Owner - Wordsmiths Publishing
After 30 years as a photo journalist and an author of four novels, one is not easily impressed with service providers in this field. When I decided to print a second edition of my book, "On South Africa’s Secret Service" I was searching for a design solution with a new approach; something fresh and different. I wanted a design, which was subtle, emotive and classic where ‘less is more’. A local printing company recommended Fabalula. The end product was signed off and ready for print within a week! I found Fabalula true to their logo – ‘Creative by Nature.’ Doing business with Noel was an easy and pleasant experience.
Riaan Labuschagne: Photo Journalist / Author
I originally commissioned Noel McShane of Fabalula, on the basis of word-of-mouth recommendations, to design my self-published memoir: Sex, Violence and Miseducation among British Toffs (1945-75). I had a few ideas for the cover and he had a few of his own. These he turned into what I - and, more importantly, many others who have seen it - think is a quite brilliant cover. The design of the text and the back cover is also first-rate, maximising ease-of-reading and general attractiveness. Noel's contribution to the production of the book turned out to go well beyond the excellent discharging of the original design commission. He also managed the indexing process, gave me enormous help with the selection and reproduction of the pictures in the book, and identified best-value printers. Beyond this what he most usefully and very efficiently did for me was to prepare the text and navigate the process for publication via Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing. Almost all our dealings were conducted remotely and this made things go, if anything, more expeditiously than if we had had to have many face-to-face meetings. I shall certainly be seeking to use his services again with other projects already in the pipeline. Not only is he a super-creative designer and hyper-efficient project manager, he is also very agreeable to deal with as a person and we have enjoyed much laughter together amidst all the serious work of turning a Word document into a published product. I only hope he doesn't become so overwhelmed with other commissions that he can no longer fit me in.
Peter Collins: Author and self-publisher at Polymathic Press (Plc) | Amazon Bookshlef
I worked for many years with Noel McShane and saw him progress from a Prepress/DTP Operator to the manager of the Prepress Department at Creda Communications. Noel has an excellent work ethic, a can-do attitude and is brilliant with trouble shooting and liaising with customers. Noel is always calm and even tempered, listens well and is good at implementing. Noel not only managed his team but was always very hands on and handled day to day work as well, such as imposing, retouching, make up etc. Noel has led his team well and is respected by his colleagues within the industry. His loyalty to Creda was unquestionable. I highly recommend Noel. He would be an asset to any company, whether as an employee or as an outsourced contractor.
Linda Kay: Sales Executive - Tandym Print
I have been an apprentice at Creda Communications for 4 Years. When I began my training at Creda Communications I did not know what to expect. Mr McShane was Origination Manager/ immediate supervisor, I was reporting to him. He welcomed me with open arms and I began with my training immediately. This letter is to commend Mr McShane for the way he interacts with his apprentices and the actions he takes to encourage us to be the best that we can be in our field. He always had an open door policy which made him accessible to his subordinates for an advice or queries. He is a qualified Originator and a trade trainer, who always puts his customers and employees first. He is a professional and expert when it comes to quality assurance in his field. I was very fortunate to be trained by such a patient, up-to date and very intellectual individual that is focused and always trying to stay relevant with technology. He works harder than anybody I have ever met, which, in my opinion is why Creda was so successful for so many years. I completed my TT modules studies with distinctions, and passed my trade test with distinctions. I owe my success to Mr McShane who taught me how to be a customer focused Originator. I recommend him for employment without reservation. Thanks again for this incredible apprenticeship and I wish you and the Origination Team all the best. As a member of the SA Navy (SANDF), I am writing this letter in my personal capacity.
Phehello Abram Tsolo (SAIP): Leading Seaman, Electronic Originator - SA NAVY
I have had the pleasure of working with Noel McShane for more than 20 years at Creda Communications and have had the opportunity to observe Noel’s professional skills. He is always pleasant and takes on all assignments with dedication. Regardless of deadlines or other pressures, Noel always delivers. It was indeed a pleasure working with him.
Merle Prins: Receptionist/Office Administrator - Creda Communications
It is with great comfort and enthusiasm that I share my experience over a twelve year period with Noel Mc Shane as an inter-departmental manager and colleague. I found Noel to be independent, self-motivated, punctual, and considerate with an exceptional interpersonal relationship skill. Accuracy on his part is an additional important factor noted. He has a pleasant manner to all who crosses his path. Noel, having an extensive insight and knowledge in his field shares without hesitation, detail and clear in depth understanding of product to benefit both the client and company. His actions are of good intention and invites interest to improve understanding. Noel has a good manner of expression to any situation and offers excellent training skills. His documentation is thorough and of high quality. I could and would boldly return for further clarity and assistance. Without hesitation, I would recommend and trust Noel with any task allocated. Consider it completed to satisfaction with excellent output.
Lesley Ackerman: Office Administrator - Fonteine Village
I have been extremely lucky to have learned and worked under Noel McShane. Noel's guidance and vast knowledge of the printing industry is what inspired me to pursue a career as a DTP Operator. His attitude towards achieving only the very best in his work made him a great manager and teacher. Noel is a humble, kind and pleasant person to work with. I have never come across a more intelligent and experienced person as an apprentice under his wing. The knowledge I have gained from learning and working under him has proved to be invaluable. Thanks again for this incredible apprenticeship and I wish you and the Origination Team all the best.
Rahmeez De Morny: DTP Operator - Bevan Print
I would just like to comment that Noel McShane is a perfectionist in the work that he does. He will go out of his way to ensure the best product and service is delivered. It was a pleasure working with Noel. He is such a creative person and his marketing skills are amazing.
Cheryl Kallend: Client Services Representative – Creda Communications
I was employed by Noel McShane as a DTP operator. I knew almost nothing about book printing. He guided and mentored me to the person I am today. He is the kind of person that will make sure every task he takes on will be completed before its deadline and it will be perfect. It was an honour to have worked with him. I feel honoured to call him my mentor. Forever grateful
Uthmaan Jacobs: DTP/Prepress Operator - Creda Communications
I worked with Noel for eight years. When he employed me, he was managing a department of more than 25 people. Within that department we were all involved in different aspects of the printing industry being a diverse department with very different personalities. Noel was excellent at managing all these personalities and making the department a very positive and pleasant place to work. Noel has an excellent working relationship with everyone in the department. I appreciated his willingness to allow us to work independently, but he was also always available if we had any problems. Noel's knowledge of all aspects of the printing industry is amazing. I felt there was no problem that he could not sort out. He somehow always seemed to be able to find solutions to problems which seemed impossible. Clients always spoke highly of his abilities and creativity. He also mentored many apprentices throughout the years and taught them so much. As our company got smaller, I noticed that in fact everybody in the company looked to Noel for help with many issues. His knowledge, his confidence, his calm rationality and positive attitude kept us all going through very difficult times.
Amanda Greybe: Typesetting Operator – Creda Communications
My relationship with Noel goes back many years. He has excellent customer facing skills and his technical knowledge of his business /work is one of the best I have encountered and had the pleasure of working with. I found his professionalism and work ethic to be top notch. Noel is the guy that will literally do "whatever it takes" to get the job done. He goes the "extra mile" in the interest of the client and company. His technical skills are excellent. Put together, he is valuable resource for any business. He is a huge asset and investment and will compliment and improve any business that has the benefit of his employ.
Graham Faria: Director at Onyx Plates and Prepress
Having worked with Noel over the years, I have found him very capable and knowledgeable in colour management in the prepress department and as a manager. His skills in using the various software tools are of high standard. Further to this, I have found Noel a very pleasant and positive person with a great outlook on life. I can highly recommend him to any company, as he will be a huge benefit.
Ivan Shamley: Colour Professional & Printing Consultant at Studio X Solutions and Digital Distributors