Common Screen Printing Problems and How to Improve Print Quality
In a cutthroat market, high-quality screen printing is a crucial differentiator for brand identity. From custom apparel to high-volume promotional …
Custom signage has always been a significant part of any successful business. Even ancient commercial establishments had signs, albeit more straightforward ones—fishmongers had fish logos outside their shops and whatnot. Nowadays, you’ll even find them indoors, from exits to warning signs.
This leads us to the question: Which should you choose between indoor vs. outdoor signage? They might seem alike, but each has its purpose and requires distinct considerations. Let’s differentiate them to help you decide!
The importance of business signs goes beyond aesthetics or decoration.
First, they’re nonnegotiable in branding and marketing. Well-designed signage tells potential and current customers who you are and what you offer, often leaving a first impression. They’re also functional—take wayfinding signage, for example. They tell customers where to go, from restrooms to specific offices in your establishment.
Keep in mind that people interact with indoor and outdoor signage differently. Outdoor signage, particularly those outside your front doors, tends to lean toward branding. They inform customers where and what your business is. Meanwhile, most indoor signs show directions or educate visitors about your business in further detail.
Indoor signage for business are primarily functional displays. They tell customers where (or where not) to go, improve customer experiences through engaging displays, and tell more about what your business is all about. As such, typical setups inside establishments include the following:
That said, indoor signage also aids your branding. Establishing a cohesive interior environment, for example, helps reinforce your brand identity and make a memorable impression on everyone walking through your front doors.
Placing business signage outdoors advertises your brand to everyone passing by. It makes people aware of who you are so that your business stays on top of their minds when looking for a product or service like yours. You could even place signage away from your establishment, such as in ad spaces!
Here are some examples of popular outdoor signs.
Visibility is critical to a good outdoor sign. You want people to see it, so choosing eye-catching colors and designs is crucial. Opting for durable, weather-resistant materials is also essential, as heavy foot traffic and the elements constantly batter them down.
Besides function, let’s discuss other crucial factors to help you decide which option best suits your business goals.
Indoor signs are safe from harsh ultraviolet rays, wind, snow, and rain, so even delicate materials, like untreated wood and paper, will last. However, the same can’t be said for outdoor signage. Since it’s exposed to varying weather, not to mention accidental bumps and scratches from passing strangers, durable materials like metal and acrylic are ideal.
Customers typically view indoor signs, like room labels, informational posters, and lobby signage, from up close. As such, you’re free to use intricate designs and small fonts. However, outdoor signs should be visible from far away, so it’s best to use large typefaces and elements. You can also use backlights or LED displays to make them visible in the dark.
Regardless of its location, visual appeal is crucial to a good sign. Consider making your indoor or outdoor setup pleasing to the eye with ambient lighting, striking colors, and varied materials.
As mentioned, visitors interact with outdoor and indoor signage differently. They usually treat outdoor signs as advertising, while indoor signs are more functional and informational. That said, there are instances when the functionality of both setups intersect, so consider utilizing both to maximize their benefits.
While outdoor signs are must-haves for any business, some establishments use their indoor counterparts more often.
For example, retail stores, offices, and event venues invest heavily in indoor signs because navigation is a crucial concern among customers and staff. Likewise, malls and other commercial buildings use them to advertise new products and promotions or reinforce their branding among shoppers. Here, banners and LED displays also come in handy.
Outdoor signs are perfect for driving traffic to your business and creating a strong first impression.
Take grand openings, for instance. It’s an excellent opportunity to make your brand known locally, so leveraging visually striking signage is a great choice. If you have a new promotion or products on sale, advertising them through a temporary banner outside your building can help generate word of mouth.
You want your outdoor sign to be always visible, so lighting is crucial—just like illuminated storefront signage and highway billboards.
Of course! Combining indoor and outdoor signs maximizes the benefits of both worlds. If you want to advertise a product sale, you could use outdoor banners to inform passers-by about it and indoor ads to convince them to finalize their sale. Or, if you’re running a cafe, you can attract customers with an outdoor standee and then promote loyalty programs through indoor posters.
The secret is consistency. Using cohesive branding elements in all signs, indoors and outdoors, ensures customers know they’re yours and helps them more easily identify your brand. So, remember to use similar fonts, color palettes, and designs in your signage setups.
When choosing between indoor vs. outdoor signage, it’s important to take your business goals into account. Do you want to drive traffic? An outdoor sign is an excellent addition to your establishment. Meanwhile, indoor setups are ideal for informing and directing customers. Or you could use both—it’s your call.
Whichever strategy you pursue, it’s best to seek help from experts. So, don’t hesitate to reach out to Artcraft Sign Company. Our professional signage designers will work closely with you, employing tailored solutions to create a sign that aligns with your unique needs. We’ve helped countless Denver businesses achieve their goals, so trust us to do the job.
Contact us to get started!
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