Always always always see a proof FROM THE PRINTER of anything before it goes to print. No matter how good your designer is, once files have been transported to the printer or pre-press house YOU MUST SEE A FINAL PROOF.
If your job will be printed with SPOT COLORS, you will only need to see a layout proof (a black and white laser print, or Blues are sufficient) and the Pantone color chips you selected. If you must have accurate color on a 4 COLOR PROCESS job, it is absolutely necessary that you see a Match Print.
Blues - A blue and white proof that shows actual layout, image resolution, fonts, etc.
Match Print - If accurate color is important you should see a color proof that was output on the actual press on which the job will run. The Match Print will show you the exact color that will print. If it does not show the color you want, the necessary adjustments to the printing press, or digital files can be made before the entire job is printed.
Proofs cost money, so take into consideration how important it is that the color is accurate. Business cards probably don't need a match proof, but a black and white laser print to know that the files remained in tact is still a good idea.
