Signage is a form of communication tool. It is intended to get a message across to a viewer or to provide information. Signs can therefore have great value. They may be road signs to give directions or to warn of hazards, they may identify particular locations and often they are used for marketing and sales reasons — to promote a specific product or service, or to improve a company’s branding.
Signs need to grab people’s attention and get a message across quickly and effectively. Consequently, there are many different types of signs and varying approaches to communicating with viewers. The signs need to be in the correct location for their purpose, so they are seen by the right people.
Different types of signage
Signs can have many different forms and be made from various materials that are suitable for varying uses. These include:
- Corflute is lightweight, made from fluted plastic and is generally only suitable for short-term use, especially for outdoor locations. It is typically used for real estate for sale signs.
- Aluminium Composite Material (ACM) that comprises a polythene core between thin aluminium panels. This is a resilient material that is lightweight and suitable for long-term outdoor use, typically for gates, and footpaths and to warn of hazards.
- PVC banners can be vertical or horizontal and with a variety of shapes and sizes. They will be damaged by sun and wind over time when used outdoors but are suitable for long-term indoor use.
- Foamboard is lightweight but reasonably strong and has a foamboard centre of varying thicknesses and paper outer layers. It is often used as a base for plans or event signage.
- Acrylic signs comprise adhesive vinyl of various colours that can be cut to size and then fixed to an acrylic base. These signs are very strong, resistant to damage and suitable for outdoor or indoor use over a long period.
- Synthetic poster paper resists moisture better than ordinary paper and so is suitable for outdoor as well as indoor use, particularly where there is a damp atmosphere such as swimming pools.
- Vinyl decals can be applied to windows, vehicles and other smooth surfaces and are suitable for outdoor use although they will eventually fade due to sun exposure. They are often used on store windows for promotions and opening times.
- Vinyl wraps can advertise your company on all your vehicles and can be seen over a large and varying area over a long period.
- Digital signage can change frequently and will attract attention due to moving images and varying colours.
- Neon signs are also good at attracting attention due to their high luminance and different colours.
Principles for effective signage
To be effective, signage has to be noticed by the right people, and they have to take in the information it provides. It is, therefore, all about the location of the sign, its visibility and its content.
Signs must be clear, easily seen and have content that people can understand and relate to. That applies whether you are trying to communicate information, such as road signs giving directions or warning of hazards, or if you want to promote your company or its products and services.
Signage is one of the most efficient and cost-effective means of communication, providing that each sign is properly planned, designed, constructed and located. A poorly designed or inferior sign will give a poor impression of your company and will generally not attract the attention you want so planning and preparation are crucial.
We can help to create the custom signage you need. Just get in touch and we’ll be happy to assist.
Leave a Reply