8 tips for creating an impressive sign
1. You get what you pay for.
It’s a sad fact of life that quality costs, whatever it is you are buying. Where a business sign is concerned, the quality of the materials and fixings used determine whether your business image stays looking professional for 10 months or 10 years.
2. It’s a moving audience.
Most outdoor signs are viewed from a moving vehicle, in traffic, day and night. So they must be easy to see and read. Communicate in less than 3 seconds. Don’t sell information. Keep it clear, simple and logical.
3. First impressions count.
First impressions are lasting impressions. Your sign is often the fist impression a new customer has of your business. Make sure it creates the positive, professional image you want.
4. White space says a lot.
“White space” is invaluable. This is any surface area that is free from text or graphics – and it heightens the impact of the sign’s real focal point. At least 40% should be white space.
5. Think about your neighbours.
Howard Hughes reputedly bought out (and closed down) the Silver Slipper casino in Las Vegas simply because their large shiny revolving silver shoe sign intruded on his hotel room across the street.
6. What planning restrictions are in place?
Always better to seek advice in advance on what compliance may be required – and to work with the local planners. A good sign contractor will help you with this.
7. Signs never sleep.
Good lighting doesn’t just illuminate your sign when the natural light is poor – it can create a visual spectacle that dominates the space around it, complementing any other street or security lighting that exists.
8. Size matters . . .
Naturally. But perhaps of greater significance are where your sign is located, height off the ground, prominence against the background, message, layout, colour, typeface, perspective, angle of face, Survey the site in advance. Walk it. Drive it. At different times. Check for where vehicles park. And note the location of fences, shrubbery, trees and other signs.