For companies large and small, signage should be a key part of capital planning.
From assisting unfamiliar visitors with directions, to informing the public of emergency situations, to sharing brand identities with potential customers, signage is a multi-tasking vehicle that does it all.
When used properly, signage has the power to be a highly cost-effective form of advertising that works 24×7. There’s a lot at stake and that means the long-term signage investment can be significant. What’s the best way to ensure that your dollars are well-spent?
Here are six tried and true tips for creating signage that is informative, appealing, and effective to capitalize on your signage investment.
- Use interesting visuals to get your message across.
Crisp, colorful digital photos can be incorporated into signage designs to add impact. Logos and other branding elements can also enhance a sign’s overall design and layout. What fascinating visual associated with your business could be included to capture attention and communicate your message? Be creative but don’t go overboard. Going too far out of the box can be a turn off to some people.
- Remember that less is more.
You may be tempted to include every bit of information you can on your sign, but it’s best to use only the number of words that are absolutely necessary. Efficient use of space is not only more visually appealing, it’s less confusing to readers who may need to grasp the content quickly. For optimal readability, experts recommend leaving 30% to 40% of the sign’s face area as white space.
- What do you want people to read first?
Text size creates a natural, easy-to-follow visual hierarchy. The largest type will grab readers’ attention first, so use it for the primary message you want to share. Then include any secondary elements or supporting messages according to their size and placement in the design.
- Tap into the power of lighting.
At night or in bad weather, lighted signs are still hard at work, attracting customers and reinforcing your brand. For even more appeal, illuminate the signage in a compelling manner. For example, you might backlight your sign to make the lettering stand out or use uplighting to cast a mesmerizing glow.
- Select your colors carefully.
The greater the contrast between the background and text, the more legible your sign will be from a distance. Black contrasts well with any light color, while white works well with lettering in a darker hue. Colors that are more similar, such as a green background and blue lettering, don’t have sufficient contrast, making them difficult to read. Be sure to also keep your brand palette in mind when making color selections.
- Include a call to action.
Whether you’re creating a digital signage system or a static one, engage viewers by giving them an opportunity to participate. “Like Us on Facebook” or “Text This Number to Earn Rewards”, for example. These direct calls to action remove the guesswork by letting viewers know what you want them to do after seeing your message.
Whether you’re seeking trendy digital displays or captivating video walls, Adler Display is the source for dynamic visual communications. When it’s time to create or replace your company’s signage system, rely on our friendly professionals for compelling designs that get noticed. Please contact us to learn more.
About Adler Display: Headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, Adler Display brings more than 80 years of experience to its clients in need of recognition displays, lobby and corporate interiors, custom exhibits, historical timelines, trade show displays, and signage and graphics. For more information about Adler Display, please visit the website at https://adlerdisplay.com/ or call 855-552-3537.