In the dynamic world of business, first impressions matter. Your new business' signage is often the first point of contact between your business and any of your first potential customers, making it a crucial aspect of your overall branding strategy. Whether you're opening a new storefront or refreshing your existing signage, here are the top 15 things to consider to ensure your business open sign shines bright and attracts attention.
Top 15 New Business Signage Considerations
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Location, Location, Location: Before designing your signage, consider the location of your business. Is it in a busy commercial area with high foot traffic, or is it tucked away in a quieter neighborhood? Understanding your surroundings will help you determine the size, style, and placement of your signage to maximize visibility and impact.
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Local Regulations and Permits: Before installing any signage, be sure to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits. Zoning laws, building codes, and sign ordinances vary by jurisdiction and may dictate the size, height, and design of your signage.
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Brand Identity: Your signage should reflect your brand identity and convey your business's personality and values. Consider incorporating your logo, brand colors, and messaging to create a cohesive visual identity that resonates with your target audience.
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Readability: Ensure that your signage is easy to read from a distance and in varying lighting conditions. Choose clear, legible fonts and avoid overcrowding your signage with too much text or visual clutter.
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Contrast and Color: Use contrasting colors to makeyour signage stand out and grab attention. High-contrast color combinations, such as black and white or red and yellow, are particularly effective for enhancing visibility and readability.
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Material Selection: Select durable materials that can withstand the elements and maintain their appearance over time. Options include weather-resistant materials like aluminum, acrylic, vinyl, and LED-lit signage for added visibility at night.
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Lighting: Lighting can dramatically enhance the visibility and impact of your signage, especially during nighttime hours. Consider options suchas backlit signs, LED lighting, or spotlights to illuminate your signage and make it stand out after dark.
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Size and Scale: Choose the appropriate size and scale for your signage based on its intended placement and viewing distance. Larger signs are more visible from a distance, while smaller signs may be more suitable for close-up viewing. At Vibe Neon, we can produce signs to dramatic, eye-catching dimensions.
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Placement: Strategic placement of your signage is key to maximizing its effectiveness. Consider factors such as traffic flow, pedestrian pathways, and sightlines to ensure that your signage is easily visible and accessible to your target audience.
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Directional Signage: In addition to your main business signage, consider incorporating directional signage to guide customers toyour location. Clear and concise directional signs can help improve wayfinding and enhance the overall customer experience.
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Maintenance and Upkeep: Regular maintenance is essential to keep your signage looking its best and functioning properly. Develop a maintenance plan that includes regular cleaning, inspection, and repairs to ensure that your signage remains in top condition.
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Accessibility: Make sure your signage is accessible to all customers, including those with disabilities. Consider factors such as font size, color contrast, and placement to ensure that your signage is easy to read and navigate for everyone.
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Signage Placement: Consider where your signage will be placed on your property, including on the building facade, storefront windows, or freestanding structures. Choose locations that offer maximumvisibility and exposure to your target audience.
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Budget: Establish a budget for your signage project and carefully consider the costs associated with design, materials, fabrication, installation, and ongoing maintenance. Be sure to factor in any additional expenses, such as permits or lighting upgrades.
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Brand Consistency: Maintain consistency in your signage design, messaging, and branding across all touchpoints to reinforce brand recognition and build trust with your audience. Consistent branding creates a cohesive and professional image that reflects positively on your business.
Better Business Signs with Vibe Neon
We know that these 15 considerations are true because we help businesses make their signs every day. At Vibe Neon, our business signage collection helps small businesses like yours do better, perform better, and continue to grow year after year. investing in high-quality signage is a smart business decision that can pay dividends in terms of attracting customers, enhancing brand visibility, and driving sales. By considering these top 15 factors when designing your business signage, you can ensure that your signage effectively communicates your brandidentity, attracts attention, and creates a positive first impression with potential customers.
Sources:
U.S. Chamber of Commerce: 10 Tips for Smart Business Signage