Signage has been an integral part of the business world for hundreds of years. Without it, many brick and mortar businesses would struggle, as customers would be unable to find them or understand what they sell. Startups are no exception. The design and manufacture of your signage speak volumes to visitors and customers. Subconsciously, it communicates information about the kind of business you operate, your approach, and your standards. By making the most of these 5 factors, you can position your startup perfectly in the minds of passers by.
By Team Savant
Image: J Gowell
Colours
Colour is an incredibly important branding element that can affect how people feel about your business. Colour psychology in signage is a complex topic, but the short version is that the colours you choose influence public perception. Whether you use warm or cool tones, dark or light shades, and how you combine colours can all shape the impression people get of your company. There are no wrong answers, but some shades suit certain businesses better than others. Think about famous brands and how strange they would feel if their colours suddenly changed. The key is choosing colours that clearly express the values you want to communicate.
Typography
In much the same way as colour, the typefaces you use can affect how your startup is perceived. Some fonts feel modern, others classic or traditional. A typeface may appear bold and striking, thin and elegant, or playful and unusual. Each visual choice becomes linked with your brand identity. Selecting a typeface that naturally fits your company helps reinforce the overall message you want customers to associate with your business.
Clarity
As signs are often displayed outdoors, customers may view them from a distance, so readability is essential. This means choosing clear fonts and high contrast colours so your signage can be understood quickly and from any angle. Avoid overloading your sign with too many details such as phone numbers, web addresses, slogans, and social media handles all at once. We live in a world full of advertising, and most people will only glance at your sign briefly, so the message needs to be understood instantly.
Materials
Regardless of the design, your signage will not reflect well on your startup if its construction feels cheap or poorly maintained. It is difficult to convey professionalism with a damaged or dirty sign, so quality materials and proper installation are important. Many businesses work with experienced installers and even a trusted double sided tape supplier to ensure signs, lettering, and mounted panels stay secure and neat over time. A clean and professional sign can be the difference between attracting customers or pushing them away, especially in industries where trust matters.
Keep It Updated
Even a perfectly designed sign will eventually need refreshing. Trends change and your business will evolve. Updating your signage from time to time helps ensure it still reflects your brand and communicates the right message. Startups are often associated with innovation, and keeping your visual presentation modern helps reinforce that perception. Since your sign is often the first thing customers see, using the right colours, fonts, and materials ensures they are drawn to your business for all the right reasons.