Signage is important. How important? Consider this: According to a survey by Outdoor Signs America, a staggering 8 out of 10 customers admit to entering an unknown store or business solely because of an appealing sign. Additionally, 50% of those surveyed revealed that poor signage could deter them from entering a business altogether. Even if your customers are not always aware of the influence your signage has over them, you should be able to leverage your signs for maximum impact.
But how can you ensure that your business signage stands out and captures customer after customer? Let’s explore five effective signage strategies that can maximize your impact and drive results.
1. Use Highly Contrasting Colors
Color choice is not merely based on aesthetics. You should employ color as you would anything else—strategically. According to research conducted by Signs.com, signage that employs high color contrast between the text and background receive a 23% increase in engagement.
Why does this happen? In general, people have minds that snap to the next most exciting thing. Since high contrast tends to grab your attention quickly, those are the signs that tend to be viewed most often. This means that it is important to consider not only the shape and design of your sign but also the colors.
However, it’s not just about selecting any contrasting colors; it’s about choosing the right ones that align with your brand message. Understanding the psychology of color and its impact on consumer behavior can offer valuable insights into making the most of your signage. For instance, red can signify urgency, while blue may evoke trust and reliability. Exploring these associations can help you craft a signage color scheme that resonates with your target audience.
2. No Borders, Less Distraction
Have you ever heard the phrase, “Less is more”? When it comes to outdoor signage, the less visual noise, the better. This means that, as tempting as it may be to add a border or other visual elements, you may want to nix those things. Certain elements—like borders—tend to distract readers from your core message. In contrast, signs without borders experienced an 11% increase in engagement. The key takeaway here is to keep your signage clean, focused, and free from unnecessary distractions.
3. Short and Simple Messaging
In the fast-paced world of outdoor electronic signage, brevity is your ally. Remember, you have only mere seconds to capture the attention of those driving and walking by your signs. Therefore, it’s essential to streamline your message and ensure that it communicates your core information concisely and effectively. Avoid lengthy sentences that require extended reading time; opt for crisp and concise phrases. For instance, consider replacing “Are you hungry?” with the more straightforward and impactful “Hungry?”
4. Size Matters
In the realm where less is more, you may wonder if bigger is better. Well, it is when it comes to your business signage. A large sign will command attention more effectively than a smaller one, especially when you are competing with other businesses for people’s attention. Furthermore, larger sizes mean enhanced readability. People will see the sign from farther away and for a longer span of time. Statistically, this translates to 75% more engagement when compared to smaller signs.
This doesn’t mean that smaller signs don’t have their place. It merely suggests that when you want to attract people to your business, you are going to need to show them just how big and commanding of a presence you have.
5. Illumination
Your brand doesn’t clock out just because the sun has set, and neither should your signs. If people can’t see your sign in the evening, why bother having a sign? In other words, you want to guarantee 24/7 visibility by investing in signs crafted with high-quality, energy-efficient LEDs or other lighting alternatives.
For many modern signs, both internal and external lighting is available. Your options will depend on where you are located and what kind of sign you want or have. Regardless, proper illumination will enhance the effectiveness of your sign around the clock. From logo signs on your storefront to indoor wayfaring signs, lighting ensures that your message is going to reach the right person when they need it.
Bonus Tip: Location and Visibility
While the design of your sign will play a crucial role in maximizing its reach, there is one other vital impact that you cannot overlook: location.
Here are some key considerations for optimizing the location of your signage:
- Know Your Space: While you may not have the precise spot determined initially, try to gain a general understanding of where your sign will be placed. Location profoundly impacts the design and effectiveness of your sign.
- Adhere to Local Regulations: Many areas have specific rules and regulations governing signage, including size, shape, and content. Ensure that your sign complies with these regulations to avoid potential issues.
- Visibility is Key: Your sign should stand out in its environment and be clearly visible to your target audience. Consider who should see the sign, the areas where your target audience is most likely to be, and where you can achieve the highest exposure.
- Customize for Different Locations: If you plan to place signs in various locations, consider designing multiple versions of the same ad. While they can resemble each other, customize them to suit the specific characteristics of each location.
- Strategic Placement: Think about where your signage will be most effective. Some common locations include next to roads or highways, above roadways and highways, in yards, on vehicles, at bus stops, train stations, in business windows, on buildings, and more. Opt for places with excellent visibility and high traffic for maximum impact.
Looking For High-Quality Signage for Your Business?
Signage is not just a tool; it’s an integral part of your brand’s identity and customer engagement strategy. To make the most of this powerful tool, partner with a signage expert who understands the art and science of creating impactful signage.
If you’re looking for high-quality signage solutions tailored to your business needs, reach out to Tupp Signs today by calling 866-324-7446 or by filling out the contact form. Our expertise and dedication to excellence ensure that your signage captures attention, leaves a lasting impression, and drives results. Your brand deserves nothing less than the best, and with Tupp Signs, your business signage will shine brightly in the competitive landscape.