A lot of precision and detail goes into crafting effective exterior building signs. These signs unlock the power to create positive first interactions with your brand, making it critical that they’re produced with extreme care. There are key steps you can take early in the signage process – traditionally in the planning stage – to ensure your signs are developed in a way that sets you up for success.
Avoid these Mistakes with Your Exterior Building Signs
Before you begin working on a plan for your exterior building signs, review this list of common mistakes to avoid:
- Not Identifying Project Goals
Prior to launching any new initiative, you’ll want to first identify your project goals. The same is true for exterior building signs. Planning what you hope to achieve with your signs is a critical step that will guide you through the sign-making process. As part of this stage, you’ll also want to clearly identify your target audience. Keep in mind that the goal and audience may vary from project to project. For example, one of your exterior signs may have a goal of communicating parking instructions to customers, while another exterior sign may focus on providing delivery information to couriers. - Selecting the Wrong Type of Exterior Building Signs
As you plan your project goals, you’ll be able to narrow down your choices for the types of signage that will align with your needs. For example, channel letters are better suited for promoting your business name to prospects versus communicating parking instructions to customers. Instead of channel letters, you may opt for a metal sign to share your parking messages effectively. Without proper planning, it is very common to choose a sign solution that doesn’t align with your intended goal, which can be a costly and time-consuming mistake. - Choosing an Ineffective Size for Your Sign
The size of your signs is a key element that will contribute to their effectiveness. In the previous examples mentioned, you’ll want to ensure your parking and delivery signs are clearly visible when guests and couriers arrive. However, the signs shouldn’t be too large and divert attention away from your storefront sign, monument sign, or other prominent signage that will get your business noticed. - Investing in Poor-Quality Sign Materials
Exterior building signs need to be manufactured to withstand the elements and last for many years. This will allow you to get the most out of your signage investment and showcase quality signs to your target audience for years to come. Be sure to evaluate all the material options available to you for your exterior building signs and select those that will be most durable. - Designing Signs that Don’t Complement Your Surroundings
Designing a sign that looks great is important, and so too is ensuring it fits well within your business landscape. As you consider materials and design, look at your facility’s structure and surroundings. You’ll want to work on developing signs that complement the features of your property, which will give your business exterior a polished, professional look. - Including Too Much Information on Your Exterior Building Signs
When it comes to writing text for your signs, less is often more. At times, you may feel like you have to fill your sign’s display with as much information as possible; it may feel like so much ‘blank’ space is a waste. However, these signs likely won’t perform well in achieving your intended goal. Instead, keep the text on your signs simple, succinct, and easy to read. This will make it easier for people to grasp your information quickly. - Overlooking Any Required Permits
Some types of exterior building signs may require permits and/or other documentation. You’ll want to do your research to become aware of any local regulations in your area in advance. This will ensure you are well prepared to apply for permits and acquire any additional documentation early in the signage process. - Installing Your Signs in a Location that’s Not Visible
Visibility is critical, as it is what ensures your signs land in front of your target audience. Consider the journey your audiences make when they travel near, or arrive at, your business; this will help define the best signage installation location. This should also give you a good understanding of where your signs will be most visible and helpful for your intended audiences. - Undertaking Improper Installation
Investing in professional installation is critical for several reasons. First, professional installers have experience working with a variety of signage materials. Second, they are also able to recommend the best method for installing your exterior building signs so that they’re visible and effective. Third, they have the equipment and knowledge required to get the job done safely and efficiently. - Selecting an Unreliable Sign Company
If avoiding all these mistakes sounds daunting, it doesn’t have to be. Professional sign companies are available to guide you through the entire process. In Orlando, FL, connect with City Beautiful Signs & Graphics for complete support from beginning to end in designing, developing, and installing exterior building signs.
Connect with City Beautiful Signs & Graphics in Orlando, FL
We are your professional signage partner that will oversee your entire project. Our team recognizes how important exterior building signs are for promoting your brand, educating guests, and letting people know where your business is located. That’s why we’ll work with you through all stages of developing your signs to ensure they’re effective in achieving your intended goals.
We begin with an initial consultation to kick things off and learn more about your business. We’ll discuss your goals and target audiences, along with the types of signs and materials that will be most impactful. We’ll also look at signage design options. We’re happy to take the lead in design and offer our recommendations on effective imagery and text. However, if you have a design already, we would love to look at it and see if there are ways to elevate it. For a custom look, we’ll also incorporate your brand elements so that your signs reflect your business.
Next, we’ll oversee manufacturing and installation to bring your signs to life. If any permits or documentation are needed, you can leave those elements to us while you continue to focus on your business. We take pride in our work, and you can trust us to get the job done. To get started and connect with our team, reach out to us today
