What should a good outdoor sign look like? Some basic guidelines
When you think of Hollywood, what picture comes to mind? Literally? The big letters in white have been a famous landmark for years since they were first put up by real estate developer Harry Chandler in 1923.
Obviously we’re not suggesting you try something of this magnitude, but the principles of signage design remain the same at any scale. You want something that’s high quality and will leave a lasting impression on your target audience once they see it cymbalta dosage.
Outdoor signs represent a significant investment, so you always want to be sure you get value for money with a sign that will serve you for a significant amount of time.
So what exactly do you need to do to your outdoor design to get clients flocking at your doorstep? Visibility is the most key thing. Your business’s sign not only serves to direct customers to your premises, but also makes your presence felt within the area you are established.
Good visibility is established when you follow these rules:
Keep it simple
Keep the design simple by using as few words as possible to describe your business. Cluttering your signboard will only confuse your potential clients. Remember that you are advertising for a moving target and you do not want your customer to spend too long trying to read your sign as they drive by. As most people tend to read from left to right and top to bottom, your focal point on the signboard should be on the top left corner. This is where you should place your company logo.
Use a consistent design
Think of a brand identity you want to associate your business with, and reinforce it using your outdoor sign. It may be a logo, colours or letter font. Use this brand on all your promotional items such as company website, brochures, or giveaways such as T-shirts or key holders. You should also use contrasting colours to bring out the letters in the foreground. You may also wish to consider using special effects such as 3D for greater visual impact and a more professional look.
Go for good placement
Ensure there are no objects such as trees and electric posts obstructing your outdoor sign and that it remains within the reader’s line of sight. As a rule of thumb, outdoor signs located within town should be kept at a low height as drivers tend to focus within their windshield height, while tall signs are more suitable on freeways.
Use lighting
Lighting is important for the visibility of your outdoor sign whether you stay open at night or not. The simple reason is that potential clients will be able to see your business sign when driving by at night.
Other factors to consider in signage
The type of material you use for your signboard will go a long way in determining the type of service it gives you. Different sign companies tend to specialise with different materials or types of signage. With the help of a professional contractor, you can choose the right kind of material for your business sign. Just to give some examples, canvas can be good for your budget, but high on maintenance costs. The same goes for plywood signs. Whatever materials you choose, be it metal, glass or fabric, the cost, elegance and durability of your signboard will be important considerations in your choice.