Signage Best Practices by On-Target!
Creating effective signage involves a combination of clear messaging, visual appeal, and strategic placement. Here are some best practices for designing signage:
1. Clarity and Readability
- Simple Messaging: Use concise and clear messages. Avoid clutter and unnecessary words.
- Legible Fonts: Choose fonts that are easy to read from a distance. Sans-serif fonts are often preferred for their clarity.
- Appropriate Font Size: Ensure the text is large enough to be read easily from the intended viewing distance. A general rule is 1 inch of letter height for every 10 feet of viewing distance.
2. Visual Hierarchy
- Prioritize Information: Arrange elements to highlight the most important information first. Use size, color, and placement to create a visual hierarchy.
- Headlines and Subheadings: Use larger, bold headlines to capture attention, followed by smaller subheadings and body text.
3. Color and Contrast
- High Contrast: Use high contrast between text and background to ensure readability. Dark text on a light background or light text on a dark background works well.
- Consistent Color Scheme: Stick to a consistent color palette that aligns with your brand. Use colors strategically to draw attention to key elements.
- Color Psychology: Consider the psychological impact of colors and how they influence viewer perception and behavior (e.g., red for urgency, blue for trust).
4. Visual Elements
- High-Quality Images and Graphics: Use high-resolution images and graphics to maintain a professional appearance.
- Icons and Symbols: Use universally recognized icons and symbols to convey messages quickly and effectively.
- White Space: Incorporate ample white space to prevent the design from looking cluttered and to enhance readability.
5. Branding
- Brand Consistency: Ensure your signage aligns with your brand’s visual identity, including logo, colors, fonts, and overall style.
- Logo Placement: Include your logo in a prominent but not overpowering position to maintain brand recognition.
6. Location and Placement
- Visibility: Place signage where it is easily visible to the intended audience. Consider height, angle, and lighting conditions.
- Traffic Flow: Position signs to align with the natural flow of foot or vehicle traffic to maximize visibility and impact.
- Environmental Considerations: Take into account the surrounding environment, including background colors, lighting, and potential obstructions.
7. Durability and Material
- Material Selection: Choose materials that are appropriate for the location and purpose of the signage (e.g., weather-resistant materials for outdoor signs).
- Maintenance: Ensure the design is easy to maintain and clean to keep the signage looking fresh and professional.
8. Compliance and Accessibility
- Regulations: Ensure your signage complies with local regulations, zoning laws, and safety standards.
- Accessibility: Design signage to be accessible to all viewers, including those with disabilities. Use large fonts, and high contrast, and consider including Braille where applicable.
9. Test and Iterate
- Prototype and Test: Create prototypes of your signage and test them in the intended environment to ensure readability and effectiveness.
- Gather Feedback: Seek feedback from potential viewers and make necessary adjustments to improve the design.
10. Tools and Resources
- Design Software: Use professional design tools like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or online platforms like Canva and Visme.
- Templates: Consider using templates for standard signage types to save time and ensure consistency.
By following these best practices, you can create effective signage that captures attention, communicates clearly, and enhances the viewer’s experience.
Typical Costs
The cost of designing and producing signage can vary widely based on several factors such as the type, size, material, complexity, and whether you hire a freelancer, a design agency, or do it in-house. Here are some typical cost ranges:
Freelance Designers
- Basic Designs: $150 - $300 per sign
- Suitable for simple signs with straightforward designs and minimal customization.
- Mid-Level Designs: $300 - $600 per sign
- For more detailed and customized designs, possibly including graphics and branding elements.
- Complex Designs: $500 - $2,500 per sign
- High-end, highly detailed signs that may involve custom illustrations, branding, and multiple design iterations.
Design Agencies
- Small Agencies: $500 - $2,000 per sign
- Offer a team-based approach, including initial concepts, multiple revisions, and a polished final product.
- Large Agencies: $2,000 - $10,000+ per sign
- Provide comprehensive services, including market research, strategic planning, high-quality design, and extensive customization. Suitable for large businesses or critical signage projects.
Production Costs
- Basic Vinyl Banners: $50 - $200
- Common for temporary or promotional signs.
- Plastic/Acrylic Signs: $100 - $500
- Durable and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Metal Signs (Aluminum, Steel): $200 - $1,000+
- Highly durable and often used for long-term, outdoor signage.
- Illuminated Signs (LED, Neon): $500 - $5,000+
- Effective for high-visibility applications, especially in low-light conditions.
Installation Costs
- Basic Installation: $100 - $500
- For simple installations that do not require specialized equipment.
- Complex Installation: $500 - $2,000+
- For large, heavy, or high-placement signs that require special equipment and professional installers.
In-House Design Teams
- Monthly Salaries: $3,000 - $8,000+ per designer
- Having an in-house design team can be cost-effective for businesses with frequent signage needs.
Factors Influencing Cost
- Size: Larger signs generally cost more to design, produce, and install.
- Material: Higher-quality and more durable materials increase costs.
- Complexity: Custom designs, intricate details, and additional features like lighting or digital displays add to the cost.
- Turnaround Time: Rush orders or tight deadlines can incur additional fees.
- Location: Installation in difficult-to-reach places or requiring special permits can increase costs.
Average Cost Examples
- Simple Vinyl Banner (Designed by Mid-Level Freelancer): $150 - $300 (design) + $50 - $150 (production) = $200 - $450 total
- Custom Acrylic Sign (Designed by Small Agency): $500 - $1,000 (design) + $200 - $500 (production) = $700 - $1,500 total
- Large Metal Sign with Illumination (Designed by Large Agency): $2,000 - $5,000 (design) + $1,000 - $5,000 (production) = $3,000 - $10,000 total
Choosing the right option depends on your budget, the complexity of the signage, and the level of quality and service you require. It's essential to get detailed quotes and understand what is included in the cost to avoid any surprises.