Sign Design: Advice from a Creative Designer
Now we come to the fun part: designing! All designers know the K.I.S.S. rule: Keep It Simple Stupid. A good design must communicate the desired information as efficiently as possible to the audience at the appropriate speed and distance. The farther away and faster the audience is, the simpler the sign needs to be bold fonts, high contrast colors, and simple logos. We can help explain the difficulties specific fonts and color choices pose to the effectiveness of a sign and suggest more effective options. That doesn't mean your sign can't have a thin stroke script font on a patterned background: we just have to find an appropriate use for those elements in the right situation. Clear communication with our clients is a critical factor during the design process.
Once a designer understands your goals for the project, its viewing scenario, and has procured all information on limitations from ordinances and budget: It is time to get started on the design.
The number one rule: the sign needs to be easy to read.
How can we make it easier for the audience to absorb this information? The appropriate size and stroke/width of the fonts and good contrast in the colors will help the sign's effectiveness in your business's unique viewing scenario.
The number two rule: it has to attract the viewer's attention.
Can it handle the visual competition in its situation? While "attractive" may be a bit subjective, here are some things regarding sign design that will attract attention while being aesthetically pleasing:
- Work with the project's surroundings.
- What is the natural landscape around your business?
- Are there any architectural elements, colors, shapes, or materials that we can borrow to improve the visual connection between the sign and the building?
You've already said "Yes" to your business site. A thoughtfully executed sign design assists in extending the business' presence in the community. Think of your business's sign as an invitation to the community: a hand extended in friendship.
Key Takeaways:
- Keep it simple.
- The sign needs to be easy to read.
- Attract the viewers' attention.
