How To Create The Right Sign For Your Business

So, how do you create the right sign for your business? Business signs are so important when it comes to your business identity and brand. It tell customers so much about your business. With all the options and types available, it can be difficult to decide on the right type of sign. A sign is a great opportunity to bring in business, create business awareness and drive sales. You always want to get the most out of your signage investment. Having a great sign company like ours to advise and guide you is key to making a sound decision. You want to be sure you are creating the right sign for your business.

Here are a factors to consider when creating a sign for your business:

1. Determine the goal(s) for your sign. Do you want your sign to just identify your location or drive sales (or both)?

2. Consider your budget. Signs can be all price ranges from $50 to thousands of dollars. Knowing your budget will help determine your options.

3. Sign design is critical. Are you working with a professional or doing your own design?

4. Consider copyright laws. Be careful not to have any copyright materials on your sign.

5. Outdoor signs/banners require sign permits. Will you need to obtain your permit or will your sign company take care of permitting?

6. Location is key. What’s the point of having a sign made if it is not visible to traffic? Ensure you are following sign ordinance laws.

Contact ASAP Signs Today for a FREE QUOTE

www.ASAPSignsATL.com

770-889-1212

3 Things Your Business Sign Should Do

Business signs are an extremely important part of your business identity and success. For brick and mortar businesses, proper and effective signage is crucial. Though every business is different with unique signage needs, there are some universal rules as well. 

Here are 3 things your business sign should do:

1. HELP CUSTOMERS LOCATE YOU: You do not want to miss out on customers because they cannot find you. Your business sign should be easily seen by approaching customers and from the street. 

2. INSTILL CONFIDENCE: Your sign should represent your business in a way that instills confidence in your customers. Your sign should say that you are reputable and successful. Signs in disrepair or are outdated can turn customers off.

3. BUILD YOUR BRAND: Your sign should help you build your brand. Your sign should fall inline with your other marketing efforts in both design and theme. 

Contact ASAP Signs Today for a FREE QUOTE
www.ASAPSignsATL.com
770-889-1212

What to Look for When Choosing a Sign Company?

There are many considerations when choosing a sign company.  Sign companies and print shops offer a variety of signage solutions.  Some options may be quick and inexpensive others may be more involved and costly. Here a just a few considerations when looking for a sign shop to handle your next project.

What kind of sign(s) are you considering?

Sign options today are countless.  When looking for a sign company, first consider what kind of sign you want and potential limitations.  Do you need the sign to be lit? Do you want to communicate different messages on a digital board?  What are the zoning restrictions on size and location?  What is your budget?  A sign company can help you determine different options given your requirements and constraints.

Is permitting required?  

Depending on your business location, most jurisdictions require a sign permit. Some sign companies will offer permitting services. Determine if you want to spend your own time working through the permitting process or use a sign company that has a permit expediter. The permit expediter will determine what permits are needed for your sign type and jurisdiction, fill out the paper work and work with the municipality to obtain the permit.  The permit fee and permit processing fee will then be passed on to you.

Do you need installation services?

There are a variety of installation services available from sign shops. They will need to fully evaluate your installation requirements. Do you need a survey completed? What is the height of the sign installation? Do you need electrical services? Do you need vinyl installed? A thorough evaluation up front by a professional installer will save you money and time later.  

Sign companies may or may not provide all of the above services.  A full service sign company is beneficial in providing detailed quotes for services and materials up front and eliminating surprises later on.

Contact ASAP Signs Today for a FREE QUOTE

www.ASAPSignsATL.com

770-889-1212

What Sign Permits Do You Need For Your Business?

If you want a sign, you will need a permit.  The process and fees for obtaining permits vary depending on the jurisdiction so a little investigating up front may save future delays! 

Do all new signs need a permit? 

Yes

Do temporary signs, such as banners or commercial real estate signs need permits? 

Yes, most jurisdictions require a permit.

Do I need a permit for a sign modification? 

If the modification is within weeks or days of obtaining a sign permit, probably not, but most signs require a permit. Panel exchanges for existing ground signs do not require a permit in most jurisdictions.

How do I find out sign zoning and ordinance laws? 

Call the jurisdiction's planning and zoning department and provide the address or google it. For example, google: "City of Alpharetta sign ordinance."

What kind of information is required when filing for a sign permit? 

• You will need a rendering of where the wall sign will be positioned on the wall, showing length of wall and height of building. A mounting and lighting detail for the sign with all dimensions is also needed. 
• For ground/freestanding signs, a rendering of the sign in its proposed location, a site plan to scale with dimensions from the sign to the nearest property line, a foundation plan and framing detail signed and sealed by an engineer. 
• The sign contractor will need to provide their business license and certificate of insurance at time of submittal. Most jurisdictions require a tenant/landlord owner authorization letter allowing the sign company to pursue the sign permit on your behalf.

When do I need a site plan and how do I obtain one? 

A site plan to scale is usually needed anytime you want to build a new ground or freestanding sign. To obtain a site plan, you will need to consult with a licensed civil engineer/surveyor or file an open records request with the jurisdiction where the sign is proposed. Some jurisdictions have a site plan in their archives.

Contact ASAP Signs Today for a FREE QUOTE
www.ASAPSignsATL.com
770-889-1212

So What Is Wayfinding Signage & Why Is It Important?

Even if you have never heard the term wayfinding signage, you have definitely seen it. They surround us all the time, everywhere. These wayfinding signs point us in the right direction to navigate a given space, inside or outside.  Good examples of this type of signage include, directional signs in an airport or hospital that indicate where you are or where you are going.  They are also used in shopping centers, parking lots, medical buildings and mass transit stations.

The Four Main Types of  Wayfinding Signs Are:

• Identification – marks an area and gives a name to a location
• Directional – guides people to a specific location
• Informational – gives facts about the location such as hours of operation or Wi-Fi availability
• Regulatory – provides information on what is and is not allowed in an area, such as No Smoking

Wayfinding signs should be simple, blend with their environment and hidden in plain sight.  By focusing signage on navigational needs, customers can accomplish their purpose for being at a location and not feel the frustration of getting lost.  Good signage leaves a positive first and last impression. Contact us for all your wayfinding signage needs. 

Contact ASAP Signs Marietta Today for a FREE QUOTE
www.ASAPSignsATL.com
770-889-1212

4 Reasons Why You Should Consider A Channel Letter Sign

There are so many sign options available to business owners. Deciding which type of sign will maximize your exposure and create the most aesthetic appeal can be difficult. Channel Letter Signs are often a great choice because they offer so many advantages. Here are 4 reasons why you should consider a Channel Letter Sign:

1. Distinct Look: Each letter has its own structure and separate illumination providing a very professional and highly visible appearance.

2. Variety of Options: Many options are available in regard to size, shape and lighting.

3. Brilliant Illumination: They are highly visible with a variety of lighting options.  Channel letters offer multiple options for how they emit light depending on desired effect.

• Front Lit – emit light only from the front of the letter

• Reverse Lit – lighting is directed toward back of letter giving a “halo” effect

• Front/Back Lit – letter is illuminated from front and back giving a dramatic effect

• Open Face letters – usually uses exposed neon lighting for very noticeable nighttime lighting often used by night clubs and restaurants

4. Energy Efficient: Channel letters can use LED or Neon –LED lights are more energy efficient and durable during shipping and installation than neon.  LED is becoming more popular due its energy efficiency.

Contact ASAP Signs Marietta Today for a FREE QUOTE
www.ASAPSignsATL.com
770-889-1212

Connect With ASAP Signs Marietta Online

At ASAP Signs we like to get to know our customers. As a leader in the signage industry, we understand that listening, engaging and responding to our clients is paramount to offering quality service. We welcome our clients’ feedback and inquires and invite you to connect with us online.  

CONNECT ASAP SIGNS

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By connecting with us online you will be able to stay up-to-date on new services, special offers and helpful tips. We look forward to connecting with you. ASAP Signs offers a full suite of signs including:

Electronic Message Boards

LED & Digital Signs 

Exterior Monument Signs 

Full Color Vinyl Banners 

Interior Logo Signs 

Lobby Signs

Lighted Signs 

Vehicle Wraps and Graphics 

Custom Wooden Signs

Contact ASAP Signs Marietta Today for a FREE QUOTE
www.ASAPSignsATL.com
770-889-1212

Value of A Sign | Marietta Sign Company

Commercial signs for businesses are often taken for granted by both business owners and consumers. But when you truly reflect on them, you can see their immense value to both parties. They are continually alerting us about everything around, from local restaurants to area universities. How would you find your friend’s subdivision so easily without that prominent monument sign in front? Signs provide businesses and organizations with the high visibility they depend upon. Here are just a few areas that reflect the true value of a well designed and installed commercial sign:

Longevity

•         Online ads disappear, sometimes in seconds

•         Signs work 24/7 day and night, year after year for your business

•         View as an investment not an expense

 

Generates Sales

•         Provide customers with accurate picture of sales and services

•         3 fold purpose - identify, advertise and find business

•         High frequency, repeated exposure that help customer recall

•         Location of sign is usually highly visible and convenient

Cost

•         High value when breaking down cost over life of the sign

•         Very inexpensive form of long-term advertising

When you need a commercial sign in Metro Atlanta, contact ASAP Signs. We understand just how important having the right sign is to your business. We look forward to serving you and answering any of your questions.

Contact ASAP Signs Marietta Today for a FREE QUOTE
www.ASAPSignsATL.com
770-889-1212

What to Consider Before Having a Custom Sign Made?

Custom signs are serious business when you consider the impact (or lack of) they make. You really want to think carefully about all possible aspects of your sign project before starting it. Here are some questions you will want to ask yourself before having your custom sign created.

1.       What is the goal for your sign? A sign is a great opportunity to bring in business and drive sales.  Do you want your sign to just identify your location or drive sales (or both)?

2.       What is your budget? Signs can be all price ranges from $50 to thousands of dollars.  Knowing your budget will help determine your options.

3.      Who is going to design your sign? Sign design is critical.  You need to decide if you are going to hire a professional or put together your own design?

4.       What are the copyright laws involved? You have to consider copyright laws.  Be careful not to infringe on any copyrights when creating your sign.

5.       Will you need to obtain your permit or will your sign company take care of permitting? All outdoor signs/banners require sign permits.  This is critical to look into ahead of time.

6.      Where are you going to place your sign? Location is key.  What’s the point of having a sign made if it is not visible to traffic? You also need to ensure you are following sign ordinance laws.

Contact ASAP Signs Marietta Today for a FREE QUOTE
www.ASAPSignsATL.com
770-889-1212

Your Sign Reflects Your Brand | Sign Company Marietta

Your brand is everything and everything is a part of your brand.  This applies to everything from a fancy website to the very roots of your business: the front door.  Even businesses that don’t rely on customers on site or foot traffic have committed to presenting their brand at their doorstep.  The best and most important way to express your brand is with a new or updated sign for your business. 

When considering new signage for your business, you must follow the same principles of design and graphic work that you might with any aspect of your marketing.  Whether you are a small business or a large franchise, you wouldn’t just find a picture or a font on the internet and send it over to a signage company.  If you are considering a new or updated sign for your business, please consider the following factors for your purchase.

1)     Consult a Professional - Contrary to what your budgets or management might tell you, design work is not easy or cheap.  It is not possible to just print a logo or put a sign together in a Word document and send it to the printers for high quality work.  The first step to proper, attractive signage is to consult the professionals who can work with you or your design team to produce the highest quality signage possible.  From initial consults, acquiring quotes or learning the limitations of your designs (and budget,) a signage professional can help you find the best route for your business.

2)     Mind Your Neighbors – Many buildings that businesses lease from come with rules and regulations that businesses must follow, much like an HOA for a condo.  If you’ve ever seen a strip mall or business lot where every business has the same font or color above the door, this is because of leasing regulations in that area.  Before wasting your time and energy on a brilliant design, consult with your landlord to determine what kind of signage you can place on the property.

3)     Budget Before Commodity – One of the biggest mistakes business owners make, especially in small businesses, is not budgeting properly for something like signage work.  You get what you pay for and the old adage certainly applies here.  If you want an engaging, standout sign that attracts customers to your door, you must be willing to pay for it.  If you follow step one and consult a professional early, you can get a great idea of the kind of work you can expect at various price points.

4)     Be Open Minded – Perhaps the most important thing to consider is that in business, much as in life, not everything is going to go according to plan. Limitations outside of your control - such as building code restrictions - may alter your original design. However, if you’ve followed the steps above, you will likely end up with a sign that is perfectly suited to your building, needs and brand. 

Always remember that with the help of design professionals, smart planning and a healthy attitude, you can find the perfect signage for your building, advertising or lot.  With the proper steps taken, your business or franchise can ensure that your brand extends to the starting place of your own business: the front door.

Contact ASAP Signs Today for a FREE QUOTE
www.ASAPSignsATL.com
770-889-1212

5 Common Mistakes in Signs and How to Avoid Them

A sign is about making an immediate but lasting impression. You want the viewer’s eye to be quickly drawn to it and to remember the details it communicates. A good sign could be the difference between gaining a customer or losing one. But if you don’t think through all the details, your sign can miss the mark or leave the wrong impression. While planning your company’s sign, make sure you avoid these five common mistakes.

1. You’ve placed it too high!

Good signage is all about meeting sightlines. Your sign needs to be placed at the appropriate height for the settings. Should it be seen from the highway? You need a pole sign or high-rise sign to clear surrounding buildings and trees. Is it street level? It needs to be low enough to be seen by pedestrians and motorists. Placing a sign too high lets potential customers walk or drive by right under it.

2. You’ve camouflaged it!

A sign also needs to stand out from its surroundings. Research the placement of your sign and its background. Will your backdrop be natural surroundings? Avoid greens and browns, and choose bold, bright lettering. Think also of the angle of your sign, and make sure it’s placed perpendicular to viewers’ trajectory, so the sign doesn’t blend into the façade of a building.

3. You’ve provided too much info!

What information really needs to be communicated to the viewer? Your company name, your website, your phone number, your logo? When you try to fit all of these things into one sign, you can end up communicating, well, nothing to the viewer. He or she will be too confused about where to look to truly remember any detail whatsoever.

4. You chose the wrong color or font!

Believe it or not, fonts have a personality. Some appear warmer or colder, some are better suited to restaurants while some are more appropriate for landscaping businesses. Certain fonts may look good on paper, but they don’t translate to a larger format. Your color palette is also very important; the wrong blend of font and background colors prevents your name or logo from standing out. Professional designers can help you choose the right colors and fonts for your sign.

Contact ASAP Signs Today for a FREE QUOTE

www.ASAPSignsATL.com

770-889-1212