The Art of Sign Design: Creating Eye-Catching Visuals for Your Business
Visual signage has the power to attract customers, influence purchase decisions, and create unforgettable experiences. However, to achieve all that, you must first create the right design.
In this blog, our designers have put together five essential tips to help you design eye-catching, effective signage.
5 Essentials for Impactful Visual Signage
1. Know the Purpose of the Sign
Broadly speaking, a sign serves one of three purposes:
- Branding
- Advertising
- Wayfinding
Therefore, the first step in creating a design is identifying the purpose of the sign. Trying to do all three of these purposes with one sign often results in a cluttered design. Instead, by optimizing your sign's design, you can make it much more effective.
2. Simplicity is Key to Effective Signage
The New York Times says people's average attention span today lasts about eight seconds. That means you have eight seconds to capture someone’s attention, effectively communicate your message, and make a memorable impression.
To achieve each step, you need a sign that has an uncluttered design, a readable font, and a clear information hierarchy, which means the most important information is also the most noticeable.
As a rule of thumb, keep messages short and avoid over-complicated designs. It's advisable you work with a visual branding company to ensure your sign meets design best practices.
3. Make Sure the Sign is Eye-Catching Wherever it is Installed
For a sign to be noticed, it needs to stand out from its surroundings. For example, an outdoor sign that is surrounded by foliage and mounted on a plain wall will stand out with vibrant colors and illumination. By taking the installation location into consideration, a business can use the surroundings to their advantage and make their signage stand out.
If you are designing a sign for a dimly lit space, such as a restaurant, consider adding lighting. Options like LED neon lights look stunning without overwhelming the space. Again, a consultation with a sign shop for interior design is advisable.
4. Make Sure Your Sign's Design Meets Customer Expectations
Customers expect a place of business to have decor and signage that matches its industry. For instance, that’s why law firms often install metal signs; they exude a sense of solidity and power, which make customers feel comfortable and supported. Retail stores, on the other hand, will often use vinyl banners because people associate them with ongoing promotions.
Consider how different materials, colors, and styles impact your sign's design, as well as whether they reflect your business accurately.
5. Give Your Logo a Place of Pride
Your logo should be placed prominently within your design, just like other branding elements, such as color. The logo should be large, the colors should be brand-accurate, and the design cues should reflect your branding elements. As an element that clearly represents your business, your logo should be dominant, easily seen, and prioritized.
A visual branding company like ours works collaboratively with clients to create branded designs. We prepare several designs that our clients can choose from and customize to their heart's content.
Work with a Leading Sign Shop for Your Interior Design
Visual signage is an essential part of your branding that offers a multitude of marketing opportunities. At Pacesetter Signs and Graphics, we create attractive designs that help you grow your business. Book a free consultation to discuss your needs.
