Choosing the right signage for your start-up

Although installing signage may not be at the top of your priority list when starting a new business, there are many cost-effective ways to help give your premises a boost. Good signage gives a positive first impression of your business and helps to accentuate your professionalism, whether that be external signs featuring your logo or internal wayfinding signs. The right signage can: Engage 50% of all new business for start-ups comes directly from signage* Save 85% of businesses estimate they would lose 1/3 of sales if signage was removed** Inspire 98% of consumers are less likely to engage with a company if their signage is in disrepair*** Communicate 83% of businesses consider signs, graphics and displays an integral part of their marketing strategy*** With such a vast array of visual solutions available we've put together the top five things to consider when choosing new signs and graphics. In order to reap the benefits of good signage, you need to make the most of what it offers. There are several important factors when looking to install new signage. IDENTIFY - Before going full steam ahead, it’s essential to have an idea of what you want your signage to achieve. Are you looking to advertise to, inform, persuade or direct your customers and visitors? PLAN - Don’t rush the design of your signs; ensuring your brand messages are consistent is very important for a new start-up as it is the first impression potential customers will get of your business. INVEST - Your signage is an investment that needs to be hard-wearing and remain high-quality for a long time. Do not cut corners with products, with our wealth of knowledge and trusted suppliers we will ensure your signs offer value for money. ORGANISE - A well-managed project is essential to ensuring your signs are installed on time and on budget. Project managers help to organise the logistics, especially if your premises is in a busy area, or has specific operational times. SPECIFY - The sector you operate in will also have an impact on the type of signage you choose; your location, premises and operations will all help determine the best signage for your business. What type of signage is best for my start-up business? The world of signs is expansive with many solutions on offer, from external and interior signage to vehicle graphics and much more! External signage promotes your brand message to people that may walk or drive past your premises. Eye-catching fascia signs, pavement boards and directional signs with recognisable branding gives your business the best chance of being remembered by potential customers. If created with an illuminated element external signage can be visible 24/7 and once installed offers continuous exposure of your business. Internal signage offers simple solutions that make a big impact without breaking the bank. Having wayfinding, reception plaques or wall graphics help to showcase your company’s brand message and promote your professionalism. The addition of custom wallpaper, window graphics and decorative display signs can all transform your office into an engaging and vibrant workplace. This type of signage has benefits for both visitors and employees by instilling a sense of belonging, familiarity and value. Vehicle graphics take your signage even further and are a great addition if you have business vans, cars or a whole fleet. Lettering and simple logos are an affordable way of displaying your company information, using colours and fonts that match your branding. Vehicle graphics and wraps are some of the most effective forms of advertising on the road, helping to promote businesses both large and small. If budgets allow, there are many options for your signage that will really set your business apart. Digital solutions take your displays to the next level, incorporated with bespoke designs and solutions, while specially designed architectural finishes provide a seamless finish for a dynamic upgrade in any environment. Contact your local centre to discuss all of the signage options for your start-up business. *Small Business Association **Study by Taylor, Sarkees & Bang 2012 ***Signs Express study of 1,000 businesses