Business signage plays a crucial role in branding, marketing, and driving sales. Studies show that high-quality signage can significantly benefit companies by attracting customers, reinforcing brand identity, and improving public perception.

According to research by Custom Neon, over 75% of consumers said signage increases their awareness and patronage of a business.

Signage helps make businesses stand out visually on the street and gives passersby a reason to stop in. Effective signs reflect a company’s brand personality and story in a creative, eye-catching way. Well-designed signage also reinforces branding across different touchpoints like storefronts, pamphlets, websites, and products. Ultimately, signage plays a major role in shaping first impressions and differentiating businesses in competitive markets.

Outdoor Signage Examples

Outdoor signage is critical for visibility and attracting customers from the street. There are several main types of outdoor business signs to consider:

Monument Signs

Monument signs are freestanding signs placed permanently on the ground, usually in front of a business. They are large, tall structures that stand out and command attention with their impressive size. Monument signs are constructed from materials like brick or stone and contain the business name, logo, and sometimes additional information. They help identify a business from the roadside and make an eye-catching impression on passersby. Monument signs can be internally or externally illuminated to maximize visibility day and night.

Pylon Signs

Pylon signs, also known as pole signs, are tall free-standing structures mounted on one or more poles with the sign itself elevated high in the air. They are triangular or rectangular in shape. Pylon signage offers high visibility from a distance and provides space to include business logos, names, and messaging. Their height is an advantage to stand out among surroundings. Pylon signs are popular along highways to attract traffic.

Projecting Signs

Projecting signs are structural signs that project perpendicularly from a building’s wall. They are installed above storefronts or entranceways. Projecting signs are easily noticeable from both directions of the street. They often use creative shapes, symbols, or 3D objects that portray the business in an eye-catching manner. Projecting signage can include lighting fixtures to enhance visibility.

Awning Signs

Awning signs appear on the surface of awnings mounted above doors and windows. They shade and shelter entrances while doubling as signage space. The awning’s valance can hold the business name and logo. Awning signs offer the ability to use flexible materials like fabric or vinyl. They are budget-friendly and easy to install. However, weathering can be a downside over time.

Indoor Signage Examples

Your custom indoor signs are key for promoting your business and directing customers once they are inside your establishment. There are three main types of indoor signage:

Reception Signs

Reception signs immediately greet customers and get them pointed in the right direction. Welcome signs, reception desk signs, and directory signs help orient customers when they first walk in the door. Reception signs should reflect your branding and convey a professional image.

Directional Signs

Once inside, directional signs guide customers to specific areas or services. Directional signs include aisle markers, restroom signs, exit signs, and signs pointing to checkout counters or service desks. They should be clear and easy to spot throughout the business.

Promotional Signs

Promotional signs advertise sales, specials, and new products inside the store. These eye-catching signs can be placed in high-traffic areas or sections relevant to the promotion. Change them frequently to highlight seasonal offers or new merchandise.

Digital Signage Exmaples

Digital signage is one of the fastest growing signage types, with the global market projected to reach USD 26.1 billion by 2028 according to a report. The two main types of digital signage are:

LED screens: LED screens use light-emitting diodes to display video content, graphics, and text. They provide bright, high-quality resolution and work well for outdoor use. LED screens can be various shapes and sizes based on need.

LCD screens: LCD (liquid crystal display) screens display content on flat panel screens. LCD screens are most commonly used for indoor digital signage, like menus at restaurants. They can easily be mounted on walls or set on countertops.

The benefits of digital signage include the ability to display dynamic content that can be changed instantly, inclusion of video and animation, and remote management of one or multiple screens from a central location. Digital signs can reinforce branding through visually-appealing and easily-updated screens.

Window / Door Signage Examples

Window and door signage is a great way to grab the attention of potential customers walking or driving by your business. These signs, applied directly to glass surfaces, serve as transparent marketing that invites customers inside. Key elements of effective window and door signage include:

– Prominent placement at eye level near doors/entryways

– Simple, clean designs with minimal text

– Contrasting colors that stand out against the glass

– Professional application with no bubbles or imperfections

– Integration with other storefront signage

– Use of graphics, products imagery, or lifestyle photos

– Updating window signs seasonally or for promotions

When placed well, window and glass door signage can help draw customers in, advertise sales or specials, highlight brand messaging, and contribute to curb appeal.

Vehicle/Fleet Signage Examples

Vehicle signage like car, truck and van wraps have become an extremely popular form of marketing and branding. Full vehicle wraps allow you to completely cover the exterior with your branding, images and messaging. Partial wraps are also an option, targeting only certain parts of the vehicle like doors, bumpers or the rear.

Vehicle wraps come in a variety of colors, finishes and effects like gloss, matte, metallic, chrome and more. Some of the latest trends in vehicle wrap designs include bold, geometric patterns, retro and vintage styles, and minimalist looks.

Another vehicle signage option is detachable magnetic signs. These can easily be applied and removed as needed for more temporary or interchangeable branding. Lettering and decals that adhere directly to vehicle surfaces are also popular for company names, slogans and phone numbers.

No matter what styles and materials you choose, vehicle signage is a great way to grab attention and get your brand noticed when on the move. Just be sure to use high-quality, durable wraps and magnets so your branding looks great from all angles.

Creative Signage Examples

Business signage doesn’t have to be boring or generic. With a little creativity, you can create signage that captures attention and effectively communicates your brand. Here are some creative types of signage to consider:

Neon Signs

Neon signs immediately grab people’s attention with their bright, buzzing lights. They evoke a lively, vibrant mood and have a retro appeal. Neon signs work great for restaurants, bars, diners, and other lively venues.

3D Signs

Three-dimensional signs add visual interest, depth, and uniqueness. 3D signs can be made out of various materials like wood, plastic, foam, or metal. They make a business stand out on a busy street. 3D signs work for creative companies, retailers with an artistic flair, among others.

Interactive Digital Displays

Digital displays provide engaging and dynamic signage. Interactive touchscreens allow customers to browse offerings, view menus, see promotions, etc. Digital signs can also display different messages or imagery throughout the day. They work well for tech-savvy, modern businesses.

Funny/Punny Signs

Inject some humor into your signage. Signs with funny phrases, witty puns, or amusing imagery make people laugh and help your business stick in their memory. This works for casual eateries, salons, boutiques, and more.

Vintage/Retro Signs

Vintage-inspired signs with a classic, retro look tap into nostalgia. Hand painted signs, old-school neon, and distressed wood add rustic charm. This style works well for antique stores, diners, boutiques with a retro vibe, and more.

Using Signage to Enhance Your Brand

Effective signage aligns with and enhances your overall brand identity and style. The colors, fonts, shapes and messaging should all work together to present a cohesive image that reflects your business. According to an article on Significance of Signage in Branding from LinkedIn, “It acts as a visual representation of the brand’s identity, values, and offerings, making a lasting impression on potential customers.”

Some tips for using signage to boost your branding:

• Make sure your signage integrates your logo and brand colors/fonts for consistency. You want customers to instantly recognize your signs.
• The style and tone of your signage copy should match your brand personality and voice.
• Aim for cohesiveness across all signs – this will strengthen brand awareness and recognition.
• Strategically select shapes, fonts and colors that communicate your brand image.
• Reinforce your core messaging and value proposition through your signage.

As noted in an article from Sign Maker Blog, “Having signage in a retail environment will greatly impact a brand’s identity. Consistent signage helps to create trust in a brand which makes customers more likely to engage.”

Common Signage Design Mistakes to Avoid

When designing your business signage, it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls that can make your signs less effective. Here are some key mistakes to look out for:

Cluttered or overly busy signs can make it hard for customers to quickly grasp your key messaging. Stick to minimal, clean designs with ample whitespace to maximize readability and impact.

Hard to read fonts and font sizes diminish your sign’s ability to effectively communicate. Choose simple, easy to read fonts at a large enough size for visibility from a distance.

A lack of branding consistency across your signs can dilute your brand identity. Use the same color scheme, logo placement, fonts and visual style across signs for a cohesive look.

Poor placement and visibility defeats the purpose of signage. Position signs strategically for maximum exposure to your target audience based on pedestrian and vehicle traffic flows.

Choosing the Right Business Signage

When deciding on signage for your small business, there are a few key factors to consider:

First, think about your goals and target audience. Your sign should communicate your brand identity and messaging in a way that resonates with customers. Consider your business type, industry, and visual style when designing signage.

Your business’s location and building are also important. Make sure sign placement maximizes visibility from the street and entrance areas. Account for the size, shape, and architecture of your storefront when planning your signs.

Costs and maintenance requirements vary between signage materials and types. Research pricing and upkeep for signs that meet your visibility needs and budget. Prioritize signs with longevity that won’t require frequent repairs or replacement.

Ultimately, choosing signage is about maximizing visibility and impact. Your signs should grab attention with eye-catching designs positioned where customers can’t miss them. Focus on signs that convey your brand quickly and make a strong first impression.

With the right signage goals in mind, you can select business signs to effectively boost your branding and draw in more customers.