When it’s time to order signage for your company, the decisions you make can have a lasting impact on visibility, customer perception, and overall brand success. Business signs are often the first impression customers get of your business, so a mistake in design, materials, or placement can cost far more than the sign itself. We’ve seen many companies run into common pitfalls that waste money and reduce effectiveness. At Visual Signs and Graphics, we help businesses avoid these errors so they can make confident, informed choices when investing in signage.
Ignoring the Purpose of Your Signage
One of the most frequent mistakes businesses make is failing to clearly define the purpose of their signage. Whether you’re investing in business signs to attract attention, guide customers, or reinforce branding, the sign must have a clear and measurable objective.
Define Your Goals
Before you order signage, consider what outcome you’re aiming for. Are you trying to increase foot traffic, direct people through your space, or highlight a promotion? Establishing goals ensures that your business signs are designed and placed to serve their intended function.
Overlooking Design Elements
Design is a crucial aspect of effective signage. Poor design can result in a message that’s difficult to read or unappealing to potential customers.
Prioritize Readability
Ensure that your sign’s text is legible from a distance. Use high-contrast colors and simple fonts. Avoid cluttering the sign with unnecessary information.
Consistency with Branding
Your business signs should align with your overall branding strategy. Use consistent colors, fonts, and logos to reinforce brand identity. This consistency helps customers recognize your brand easily.
Choosing the Wrong Materials
Material selection is another common area where businesses go wrong. The wrong materials can lead to durability issues and increased maintenance costs.
Assess Environmental Factors
Consider the environmental conditions where the sign will be placed. For outdoor signs, choose weather-resistant materials to ensure longevity. Indoor signs can use a wider range of materials.
Long-term vs. Short-term Needs
Decide whether you need a permanent or temporary sign. Temporary signs can be made from less durable materials, while permanent signs require robust materials to withstand wear and tear.
Incorrect Sign Placement
Even the most well-designed sign will fail if placed incorrectly. Placement is key to maximizing visibility and effectiveness.
Visibility and Sightlines
Consider the line of sight from various angles. Ensure your sign is visible from key vantage points and not obstructed by other objects or signage.
Compliance with Local Regulations
Check local zoning laws and regulations regarding sign placement. Non-compliance can lead to fines and the need to remove or relocate your sign.
Underestimating the Budget
Budget constraints can lead to compromises that affect the quality and effectiveness of your signage.
Plan Your Budget Carefully
Consider all costs involved, including design, materials, installation, and maintenance. Allocate a reasonable budget to ensure you get a quality sign that meets your needs.
Invest in Quality
While it may be tempting to cut costs, investing in high-quality materials and design will pay off in the long run by reducing maintenance costs and enhancing brand perception.
Overlooking Installation Details
Improper installation can render even the best-designed signs ineffective.
Professional Installation
Hire professionals to install your signage. They have the expertise to ensure the sign is securely and correctly placed, reducing the risk of damage or accidents.
Consider Future Maintenance
Plan for easy access to the sign for future maintenance. This consideration will save time and costs in the long run.
Failing to Review and Approve Design Proofs
Skipping the review process can lead to costly errors that are easily avoidable.
Thorough Review Process
Always review design proofs carefully before final approval. Check for spelling errors, alignment issues, and other design elements that may need adjustment.
Not Utilizing Professional Guidance
Many businesses underestimate the value of professional advice when ordering signs.
Consult with Experts
At Visual Signs and Graphics, we guide clients through every step of the process. From concept and material selection to placement and installation, we provide insights that help businesses avoid mistakes and maximize impact.
Ordering business signs doesn’t have to be stressful. By avoiding common errors—such as unclear goals, poor design, weak materials, or bad placement—you can create signage that attracts attention, builds trust, and strengthens your brand. At Visual Signs and Graphics, we make it our mission to ensure you get signage that works as hard as you do. If you’re ready to order signage that delivers results, reach out to us for professional support and let’s create something that represents your business the right way.