A well-designed business sign can be a powerful marketing tool. It increases visibility, making your business easy to spot, boosts brand recognition and provides 24/7 advertising. Since signage is often the first thing people notice, first impressions matter. Effective signs reflect your brand and help you stand out from the competition. Here’s how to make a big impression with your sign.
Make sure your business sign is easy to read from a distance by choosing a font that is large, bold and clear. Experts recommend that letters be at least one inch tall for every 25 ft. of distance. Stick with classic fonts, not unusual or overly creative ones. Additionally, contrast is important for readability. Choose two to three colors that stand out against one another but still work together within the overall design. Words should pop, not blend in with the background.
Keep the design and wording of your business sign simple, keeping the first-time visitor in mind when writing. Be concise; the fewer words, the better. If it takes too long to read as someone is walking by, then they aren’t going to bother trying. Messaging should not overwhelm with too much information at once. A maximum of two to three lines is recommended.
A balanced sign takes several factors into consideration including correct spacing, alignment and a centered design. Not only does this convey professionalism, but correct balance directs the viewer’s attention to the most important parts of the message. Symmetry and proportion help to guide the eye naturally, while evenly distributed elements (text, logos or images) make a business sign easier to read.
High-quality, durable materials can weather almost all climates. While inexpensive materials may save you money in the short term, they will cost you more in the long run. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, higher-quality and weather-resistant materials like aluminum, wood, acrylic, neon or LED are recommended. These types of materials will improve the look of your sign and make it last longer.
Avoid inconsistency between your sign and other branding, such as using different color schemes or fonts. Colors used in your business signs should align with your logo for brand recognition. Consistency in your marketing materials, including business signs, delivers a clear message and a professional image.
Signs should be readable both from a distance and up close and be free from obstructions such as tree limbs. For digital signage displays, make sure screens are placed correctly (not too high) and that they don’t glare during high-traffic times. And don’t forget to consider lighting, especially if your business is open in the evening or early mornings.
At Target Print & Mail, we know how important it is to create the right sign for your business. Our expert team, including a full-time graphic designer, can help you walk you through the process and help guide your design decisions. We can advise on any local sign regulations that you need to consider as well. Call us at (850) 671-6600 or get a quote today.