Office Sign Guide: The Ultimate Design & Installation Checklist
13 Jun 2014
Office signage provides the first impression of your company, so you need to make sure you’re having the right visual impact. Different companies will have different signage requirements, but there’s a basic process that needs to be followed in order to achieve the right results. This is a quick checklist to ensure you’re on the right track.
Stage 1: Planning
Firstly, you need to have a clear understanding of your signage requirements. Office business signs provide a number of services, from helping people find their way around a building to showcasing the brand. Have a walk around your building and try to see it from the point of view of a visitor. For example, do you need directory, external, lift or reception signage? If you’re thinking about using illuminated signs, is there a power source close by? If you work within a shared business environment, your signs might need to fit in with existing installations or they may need approval from other occupiers. There might also be regulations about the type and size of signs you can install. You need to take into account when and how the signage will be installed and any disruption to the business. If they can’t be fitted during work hours, you’ll need a sign company that can work outside of these times.
Stage 2: Choosing Signage Options
Then you need to consider what your signs will be manufactured from. They need to work with any existing signs or company branding. The options available will depend on your budget. Office signage can be produced from a range of materials according to your requirements. Metal signs are weather-proof, so are a good option for outside use, whereas vinyl provides a long-term solution for indoor signage as well as temporary exterior signs. For a sophisticated and tamper-proof material, Perspex works well or you can create a strong visual impact with a 3D sign. Illuminated signs are beneficial in poorly lit areas and create atmosphere, especially for main building signs. Research a number of suppliers and obtain quotes from at least three of them, as prices can vary substantially. Ask to see samples and references from previous customers. Talk to them about how long they’ll take to produce the signs and any specific timing requirements you have, such as a store opening or business rebrand.
Stage 3: Design
When you’ve chosen a supplier, you need to discuss the design elements with them. Many suppliers will require you to send through a design, so you need to know exactly what format to provide it in. If you don’t have a design for your office sign help is available from some signage companies, but you need to think about this in advance. Before any designs are produced, you have to consider the exact space available and any building requirements, including how the sign will be fitted. Check with your landlord or building manager in advance about any restrictions or access arrangements.
Stage 4: Sign Off Design
It’s essential that the design is approved before the sign is manufactured. Otherwise you won’t have any room to argue if it’s not correct once it’s installed. Check over every element carefully and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Stage 5: Installation
Work with the supplier to agree a mutually convenient time for the signage to be installed. Ensure they know how to access the area and any specific equipment that’s required. Once the installation is complete, check that everything’s been done correctly.