Getting the wrong commercial sign shop can result in a missed deadline, inferior quality, or increased expense. Businesses often make the mistake of focusing on the wrong areas, such as experience, the variety of materials, or design capabilities. Failing to communicate changes in project scope or not addressing critical reviews can lead to issues as well. Not considering whether you need a shop that will customize your sign or provide installation services can narrow your search. By understanding these top 7 mistakes, businesses will be better equipped to make informed decisions that will result in successful outcomes for their signage needs.
Key Takeaways
- Selecting the best commercial sign shop will help your business become more visible and make a great first impression on potential customers. It plays a critical role in communicating the right message to prospective customers and representing your brand.
- Don’t fall prey to mistakes like not asking about experience, not asking about material quality, and not doing your due diligence researching a shop’s reputation. These can easily result in low-quality signage and a bad investment.
- If possible,e request work samples, this is your key look into a sign shop’s design ability, creative prowess, and overall quality.
- Don’t make price the determining factor. Although they might be more cost-effective in the short term, committing to high-quality, professionally installed signage will save you money in the long run.
- Avoid misunderstandings and try to communicate in writing during the approval process. Make sure you send comments and revisions digitally to leave a track record of what you discuss with the sign shop. This will save you time in case of discrepancies.
- Don’t rush through the process, but take the time to research, compare, and evaluate several sign shops. The risk of rushing decision processes is making costly errors and losing impactful opportunities.
Importance Of Choosing The Right Sign Shop
More than a business decision, the importance of choosing the right sign shop. It’s important for increasing your visibility and professionally portraying your brand. Beautifully crafted signage can help your business pop, allowing you to capture more customers and create a memorable impression.
Impact On Business Visibility
Well-designed, strategically placed signs are more likely to attract people to your business’s location, particularly in crowded, urban environments. As an example, a sign moved to the side of a busy intersection would help direct customers right to your front door. Size and illumination are important, too. For example, a 16-inch tall letter is legible from a block away. A huge 57-inch sign can be seen from a distance of a quarter mile. Well-lit signage is extremely important, especially in the evening, so individuals can easily locate your business. Articulate messaging matters as well. A short, snappy sign with clever wording makes a big impression right away, in particular when folks are zipping by in their cars or on foot.
Role In Brand Representation
Your sign needs to be an extension of your brand’s voice and character. Consider how logos, fonts, and colors can help strengthen the way people identify your business. A bakery, for example, might use warm, welcoming colors, while a tech store could opt for cooler, modern hues. Professional sign design also helps differentiate your business from the competition. An expertly designed sign does more than announce your name—it communicates what sets your business apart and makes you the one they’re looking for.
Influence On Customer Perception
High-quality signage conveys an air of professionalism and success, making a positive first impression. A well-kept, long-lasting outdoor sign lets potential customers know that your business takes pride in its work. This can create a behavior of loyalty from customers. Concise messaging about specials or just what you have available can invite customers in the door, excited to make a purchase. Bad signage could create confusion and questions from customers.
The Top 7 Mistakes Businesses Make When Selecting A Commercial Sign Shop
1. Ignoring Experience And Expertise
If you select a sign shop without first judging their experience, you may end up with subpar signage. This shoddy quality work won’t get your business noticed. Be sure to seek out a shop that has a record of success with experienced designers. For example, if a project requires a sign readable from 100 feet, an experienced sign shop will recommend appropriate letter sizing, like four-inch text, for optimal visibility. Their expertise ensures the right design choices for maximum impact. Testimonials and case studies showcasing their successful projects further build confidence. A shop that’s experienced in designing signs for your type of business will understand how to address your specific needs. They can complement your classy, casual brand with creativity that maintains brand consistency.
2. Overlooking Material Quality
The durability and effectiveness of signage can be greatly impacted by the materials used. Signs made from low-quality materials may require frequent repairs or replacements. Outdoor signage needs to be resilient against environmental factors, while indoor signs should strike a balance between appearance and longevity. It’s important to ensure that the materials chosen won’t degrade quickly, ensuring readability and overall effectiveness.
3. Not Checking Past Work Samples
A previous portfolio is a great insight into an individual shop’s style and abilities. Reviewing samples helps you determine if the shop can handle your requirements. Whether it’s diverse design needs or creating simple, clean text rather than cluttered, unreadable fonts, checking past work is essential.
4. Focusing Only On Price
Choosing solely based on price usually leads to a lower quality product with less value down the road. Though the short-term savings may be attractive at first, low-quality signs will cost more in upkeep or replacement. Rather, focus on the total cost of ownership, including maintenance contracts that address long-term repairs.
5. Skipping Research On Reputation
A sign shop’s reputation is a great indicator of whether or not they can be trusted. Online reviews, feedback from other clients, or even research on social media can show you whether they provide high-quality work with great communication and service. An established, well-reviewed shop will tend to offer more reliable results.
6. Neglecting Communication And Support
When everyone is on the same page, your vision will be properly interpreted and delivered with precision. A knowledgeable, responsive shop that can answer your questions will save you headaches down the road. Support after installation is also crucial for ongoing satisfaction.
7. Rushing The Decision Process
Quick decisions almost always end up a mistake. Allow yourself adequate time to research several shops and use a checklist to gauge their experience, types of materials used, and their cost. Don’t rush into contracts, such as maintenance agreements, unless you have a clear idea about what you are signing.
Key Factors To Consider Before Choosing
Evaluate Design Capabilities
The design process is at the heart of great signage. Choose a shop that demonstrates an emphasis on a transparent and iterative design process. In doing so, they will get a sense of your vision from the get-go. Look through their portfolio to get a feel for the range of styles they’ve developed, from minimalist to bold or detailed designs. For instance, a high-tech company might want clean, minimalist designs, and a jewelry store might want something more luxurious. Experienced designers are a key factor—they know how to use text and negative space to improve readability and visually highlight important information. Readers will appreciate the increased visual interest. Inquire about available substrates, such as durable aluminum or long-lasting sheet metal, both of which are highly weather-resistant and ideal for long-term exterior signage.
Check Installation Services
Attention to detail during installation will make sure your sign is visible and safe for the duration of its lifespan. Check if the shop offers installation themselves, as this saves you the trouble of finding a different crew to do it. Safety standards are important, particularly for larger signs that will require structural support. Post-installation services, such as on-site adjustments, are worth inquiring about. For example, if you’re utilizing LED lighting in your sign, you’ll want to make sure it’s inspected to guarantee proper performance during the night. No matter what type of business you own, adequate lighting is key, even if your business isn’t open at night.
Assess Customization Options
Customization is one of the most important factors when it comes to making sure your sign represents your brand. Inquire about custom shapes, sizes, or finishes that showcase your business aesthetic. You can order channel letters completely customized in any size you want. Avoid colors that tend to look fuzzy. Insist on at least one round of revisions during the design process. This allows for adjustments and ensures the final sign aligns perfectly with your evolving brand needs.
Review Turnaround Time
Deadlines are crucial, whether it’s a marketing campaign or a grand opening. Inquire about expected production and installation timelines. For instance, if you need a 57-inch sign visible from a quarter mile away, factor in the production time for this type of project. A reliable sign company will prioritize your needs, communicate proactively, and ensure your sign is delivered on time.
Best Practices For Avoiding Mistakes
Conduct Thorough Research
Do your research and vetting process. Start by researching possible sign shops through online directories and reviews, along with professional networks. Specialize on their strengths—some shops do great vehicle wraps, and others are better at storefront signs. Read customer testimonials to learn more about the quality of service and reliability. Create a package of FAQsform the public can take to industry consultations. For instance, inquire about their experience with certain building materials or unrestricted use of local zoning codes. Taking this step will help you identify the right shop for you.
Prioritize Quality Over Cost
Though budget is always a concern, don’t skimp on durable materials and quality craftsmanship. For instance, aluminum signs usually last longer in harsh weather than less expensive alternatives. When done well, premium quality signage can age gracefully and bring in even more customers, compounding value over time. Rather than just choosing the lowest bid, think about how bright, easy-to-read, well-designed signs could attract more visitors and increase commerce.
Request Detailed Proposals
Request proposals from shops, including costs, timelines, and design work. For example, a creative proposal should identify the materials used, such as acrylic or vinyl, and include the installation process. Use evaluation criteria to look at more than cost. Proposals should be compared to determine value—not only cost. A detailed proposal will prevent unwanted surprises down the line.
Seek Recommendations And Reviews
Solicit your coworkers for recommendations and search online reviews. For instance, platforms such as Yelp or Google place a strong emphasis on customer reviews. Gauge reviews. Take care to balance feedback by accounting for both glowing reviews and the never-satisfied customer to obtain a realistic sense of the shop’s reputation.
Additional Tips For Effective Signage
Creating good signage is more than just a quick graphic design project. Here are some tips to help you avoid common mistakes:
- Pick the appropriate sign type to suit your business objectives.
- Ensure proper sign placement for maximum visibility.
- Use readable fonts and sizes to enhance clarity.
- Avoid colors that are too similar to your background, and choose high-contrast colors to make your signage pop.
- Avoid overloading with information to keep your message clear.
Choose The Right Sign Type
Consider all the ways a sign can benefit your business. Signs in your retail store help customers navigate your space and highlight special promotions or events. Outdoor signs are unrivaled when it comes to drawing attention to your business. Temporary signage, such as banners, is more affordable and appropriate for short-term events. Use materials that can stand up to your environment. Weather and fade-resistant materials, like aluminum or sheet metal, are essential for long-lasting outdoor signage. They ensure your signs withstand the elements and maintain their visual impact.
Ensure Proper Sign Placement
The first rule of signage is placement. The best location is in high visibility and high-traffic areas, such as on sidewalks or outside of storefront entryways. Inside, strategically place signage at eye level, typically between 5 and 6 feet from the floor. However, the optimal placement will vary depending on the size and layout of the space. Don’t forget about lighting. Backlighting or night lighting enhances visibility, particularly in dark environments.
Use Readable Fonts And Sizes
Use easily readable fonts. Avoid decorative fo and stick to simple, clean fonts like for better readability. Avoid decorative fonts that may be difficult to read quickly. In addition to color, factors like font style, contrast, and viewing distance significantly impact readability. For optimal visibility, choose clear, simple fonts and consider the viewing distance and audience when selecting font size.
Opt For High-Contrast Colors
Colors should provide strong contrast for optimal readability. Avoid color combinations with low visibility. Experiment with different color schemes to maintain brand consistency while ensuring your signage is easily visible...
Avoid Overloading With Information
Don’t lose the point by overloading your sign with text. When there is excessive text or graphics, it creates a visually confusing and distracting sign cluttered with information. The simpler and more to-the-point the message, the more effective it’s going to be.
Conclusion
Partnering with the right commercial sign shop will have a tremendous impact on the success of your business. With the right partner, your signs will do all of those things—drawing customers in, showcasing your business’s unique brand, and lasting for years to come. By steering clear of these mistakes—like conducting no research beforehand or only considering the cheapest option—you’ll find yourself on the road to success. Look beyond experience, materials, and customer service. A sign shop that listens to your needs and provides expert advice with transparency will save you time and money. Quality signage isn’t an aesthetic investment; it’s an investment in trust and visibility. Whatever the case, take the time to consider your choices. Your business will thank you for it. Want to get it right the first time? It all begins by asking the right questions and collaborating with a team you can rely on.
Need Professional Signage? Choose Alpharetta’s Trusted Commercial Sign Shop
When your signage doesn’t reflect the professionalism or vibrancy of your brand, it’s more than just a missed opportunity—it’s a barrier to success. Outdated designs, low visibility, or generic signs fail to communicate your unique message and can leave potential customers looking elsewhere. Tangerine Sign Studio understands the challenges businesses face when their visual communication doesn’t work as hard as they do.
As a premier commercial sign shop based in Alpharetta, GA, Tangerine Sign Studio offers custom solutions to elevate your brand. With over 25 years of experience in advertising and design, we specialize in creating signage that stands out and drives results. Whether you need eye-catching storefront signs, sleek indoor displays, or impactful event graphics, we combine creativity and expertise to solve your signage challenges and make your business impossible to ignore.
The reward? A brand identity that commands attention, attracts customers and leaves a lasting impression. Let Tangerine Sign Studio help you take your business to the next level with signage that reflects the excellence of your work. Contact us today to get started on a solution that works for you and your audience. Together, we’ll make your vision shine brighter than ever before.
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