A competitive business is built on many good practices, systems, and designs. Your business focus should be on selling your goods, sharing your services, and attracting more customers. With so many levels of organisation contributing to a successful business, it can be easily to overlook one of the most basic principles needed for a great business model: proper and excellent signage. Here we will introduce 4 types of signage which are absolutely necessary elements of a wildly successful business–and let’s face it, that’s what we all want, right?
Signs that Lure
The first type of sign you can’t afford to forget are signs that lure. You want to bring new customers into your business every day, and interesting, unique, and informative signs can do this. Signs that lure will be posted on the exterior of your business, or may include an A-frame or sidewalk sign. Many businesses thrive on the potential influx of foot traffic. Signs that lure will help bring passersby into your business for a closer look. Signs that lure will bait new customers into your business.
Your main exterior sign should be designed with the purpose of drawing in customers as well as providing a realistic expression of what awaits them inside. Your sign should be a direct representation of the environment of your business.
Sidewalk signs are an extraordinarily popular choice of signage these days, and are seen on just about every street in a retail district. Make your A-frame sign stand out by keeping the message simple, and including a call to action. Potential customers will pass by a sign that is too complex, or may not even see a sign that doesn’t “pop.” Use bold colours and lettering, and don’t be afraid to try a little humour!
Signs that Inform
Signs that inform your customers will likely be your most numerous type of sign. A well-structured business will not only have a smart layout within the store, but will have a systematic placement of informational signage. This allows the customer in your store to easily find what they are looking for, or to answer a simple question they may have without needing to locate a store clerk for assistance. Signs that inform include waymarking signs, pointing visitors in the directions of departments, exits, toilets, and more. The clearer and more obvious your informative signs are, the better your customer’s experience will be.
Use clear language on these types of signs, and choose eye-catching colours that the customer can’t possibly miss. Place signs that inform in well-appointed areas that make sense. Many business have adopted the trend of using floor mats as an element of signage. These are a great addition to your business, as they can be used to clearly point the way to specific regions of your store. Floor mats also have the added benefit of promoting cleanliness and providing comfort as patrons and employees pass through the store.
Signs that Intrigue
Signs that intrigue may include outdoor signs which help draw customers in, but signs that intrigue can be extremely effective inside of your business. These kinds of signs are meant to point customers in a specific direction, likely towards sale items, a promotion, or perhaps even a free sample or a product demonstration. Signs that intrigue will aid customers in discovering new items and will direct their attention suggestively. These signs can be creative and fun, as they are meant to pique the customer’s interest. Strategically placed intriguing signs can help keep customers in your store for longer periods, urging them to explore and adding to their overall experience.
Signs that Include
You welcome customers from all walks of life, and signs that include ensure that all types of customers can easily access and utilise your business. Signs that include should adhere to Standards Australia guidelines. Customers with disabilities should be able to easily locate signs pointing them towards accessible entryways. These entrances should be clearly marked. Any parking spaces you may have should include the proper number of accessible parking spaces identified with the international symbol for access. Signs on the customer toilets should clearly indicate not only gender, but inform the customers of accessible toilet facilities as well. Toilet signs must include the information in Braille for vision-impaired customers as well. Adhering to these standards for accessibility and inclusion allow you to make sure every single customer has a comfortable and pleasant experience while patronising your business.
