Signage is an umbrella term for any sign, symbol, or display used to communicate information or convey a message. Commercial business signs come in many shapes and sizes and typically share details such as a company’s name, logo, or service offerings. Of course, there are many additional types of signage companies can use. Today, we explore the most popular signage types and how to choose the best ones for your needs.
Choosing the Right Type of Signage for Your Business
Signage is only effective when prominent and unobstructed. Before settling on a specific signage design, consider whether your target audience will be able to see it clearly and, if not, how to improve visibility. The location and size of a sign are the most vital factors. The cost, maintenance requirements, and legal restrictions are secondary considerations.
Physical vs. Digital Signage
Physical or traditional signage is static, meaning you can’t change the sign’s contents. Conversely, you can use digital signs to display different messages every week. However, digital signage is much more expensive to install and may not be necessary for every type of business.
Consider how you plan to use your sign. Do you want to display weekly specials or do you have a longer-term messaging goal in mind? For messages that aren’t temporary, physical signs are often still the preferred option. For exterior signage, static signs made from traditional materials are still the preferred choice since they are often easier to read, more noticeable, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of your business.
Interior vs. Exterior Signage
Most businesses need a combination of exterior and interior signage to communicate with customers at different points in the buyer’s journey. Outdoor signs capture people’s attention and spark initial interest in your product or service. Any signage a business uses outside must be made from durable materials to withstand harsh weather conditions. It might also require maintenance to keep it legible and should be paired with lighting to be effective at night. Indoor signs can be compact, relevant, and more detailed. They often communicate specific messages, branding identity, and directional instructions.
5 Types of Signage Every Business Needs
1. Business Branding Signage
Most commercial business signs are used for branding. This type of sign displays a company’s name and logo or slogan and features the brand’s colors and fonts. Modern branding often relies on environmental signage — signs that complement the architecture of a specific space rather than act as stand-alone objects.
2. Wayfinding Signage
Wayfinding signs help people find their way around your building. This signage typically includes arrows, maps, and room names or numbers to guide visitors from one location to the next. For example, parking garage signage ensures your visitors know where to park and how to get into the building. Simplicity is central to wayfinding, and branding shouldn’t be the top priority. Large, simple fonts and bold, solid colors are best.
3. ADA-Compliant Signage
The Americans With Disabilities Act outlines specific signage requirements businesses must follow for ADA compliance. That includes placing signs indicating wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, or braille on your wayfinding boards. This type of signage should be installed during construction. However, note that building codes change every few years, so signage might also need to be updated during or after remodels if the original signs are no longer ADA compliant. Each sign must use sans-serif fonts that are easy to read.
4. Informational Signage
Informational signage conveys more details about a product, event, location, or business. It often includes custom interior signs that form part of a larger display. Examples of informational signage include a list of house rules, time slots for performances, or context about a historical building.
5. Promotion or Event Signage
This type of signage is a form of advertising. It promotes a specific product or service with eye-catching visuals and engaging copy to attract new customers. Promotional signage is typically temporary and may pertain to particular events. Event signage can also include wayfinding and branding elements.
Signage Placement and Material Options
Wall-Mounted Signs
Most interior signage is wall-mounted to save space. These signs may be used for wayfinding, branding, or promotion and are typically made from metal, wood, glass, or rigid plastic. You can also choose vinyl wall signs to maintain a flat surface in tight spaces.
An outdoor building sign is another type of wall-mounted signage. These signs help visitors differentiate one building from the next and can even act as landmarks to passing pedestrians. Most exterior building signage has a three-dimensional element to make it more legible at a distance and may even extend outward on a bracket from the side of a wall.
Freestanding Signs
Examples of freestanding signs include pole-, pylon-, and monument signs. They are designed for maximum visibility and take up substantial space. Pylon and pole signs are vertical signage types that often include light-up elements. Monument signs are shorter and designed for eye-level reading. They all fall under exterior signage and should be made from durable materials such as steel, concrete, or weatherproof plastic.
Work With a Custom Signage Company in Dallas
Reveal Graphics designs, fabricates, and installs custom signage in Dallas, Texas. We are a local business that enjoys helping other local businesses shine. Contact us for a quote or explore our portfolio for more signage ideas for your business.
