How To Design A Sign: What Should Your Sign Say?
Words are one of the most important design elements in signage.
One of the most common design mistakes in creating a sign we see is bad wording. There's often a hodgepodge of ideas randomly tossed together in an attempt to create an effective marketing message.
When you carefully choose the words which correspond with your sign's primary purpose, your message will be clear and precise.
Here Are Three Important Concepts To Help You Stay On The Right Track:
- You only have 3½ seconds.
- Signs viewed by passing motorists can only be seen for 3½ seconds before the vehicle whizzes right on by. Overcrowding your sign with too many words or lines of text can make your message too difficult to read. Plus, too much information can make the sign look so busy, people won't take the time to read it. It's just too much effort!
- Less Is More.
- The most successful sign design will communicate clearly and concisely. Therefore, in as few words as possible(seven or less), create the message you wish to convey to your target audience. The number of words used on a sign is a classic example of where less really is more. This all seems so obvious, doesn't it? And yet I'm bringing this issue to your full attention — "just in case" — because overcrowding signs with too many words is still such a common problem.
- Don't leave anything to chance.
- A potential client called me the other day wanting a price for a new business sign. The only thing he wanted on the sign was a single word —Zaffron's
Now if you were to guess what kind of product or service this business offers, what would you say?
You have no idea right? Neither did I, until I asked.
Why Fight An Uphill Battle With An Unclear Message?
So make sure people can tell the type of business you're in from your sign design. Otherwise, you'll miss key opportunities to attract the attention of potential clients who are in the market for your products and/or services.
If you currently have a business name that doesn't make it apparent what you do or offer, you can always add a descriptive word or phrase that will do the job. For example,
For example, Zaffron's Bakery:
If you have questions or would like some help wording your message, just ask for one of our "Sign Specialists."
