The first impressions people make of you or your business are formed in the blink of an eye. They are often based on small visual cues, including clothing and facial expressions, but also signage. In fact, research shows that a person may judge the overall quality of a company from their initial impression of its signage alone. If the sign is dull, sloppy or misspelled, it gives off a negative image that will discourage potential customers from entering your establishment. But a well-designed sign conveys a polished, professional image that will help to create a positive first impression and boost customer loyalty.

The purpose of your business is to serve the public and generate revenue. The best way to do that is by clearly displaying the products, services and information you offer. Outdoor signs provide that essential communication, helping your guests find exactly what they need, when they need it. They can also communicate other key information, such as business hours, special promotions and directions, enhancing the guest experience and streamlining your internal operations.

When designing your signage, the colors and fonts used should be based on the 10-by-1 rule, which states that every inch of text should be readable from 10 feet away. This helps ensure that your outdoor signage is legible at any distance and that it can stand out amongst the competition, without requiring viewers to strain their eyes or take a closer look. Using large, bold fonts is another key to making sure your outdoor signage is easy on the eyes. A simple color scheme that is both bold and readable is another helpful design technique, and it is best to avoid clutter for the same reason.

A high-quality outdoor sign will last longer than a cheap one. Depending on the type of sign you choose, the material and the install location, your signage can last anywhere from 2-3 years outdoors for digitally printed banners to 5-7 years for MDO (marine grade plywood). However, weather conditions like rain, sprinklers, snow, power washing and salt will shorten those lifespans.

To increase the life of your sign, consider a weatherproof synthetic material. Foam is an excellent choice for signage that has the appearance of carved or sandblasted wood but is much more durable. We can even make custom signs that resemble wood, stone or metal with this weatherproof material, giving your business a traditional look while increasing the lifespan of your sign by years. To further increase the longevity of your exterior signage, add supplemental hardware to your project. Decorative sign headers, T-straps, base caps and iron scrolls can elevate the look of your signage and increase the impact it has on your audience. Contact your local Madison sign shop to learn more about the many ways we can help your brand with customized, high-quality outdoor signage.