3 must-knows before you design your next sign
Everyone has their own process when it comes to design. Some might start with sketching initial ideas, while others might jump into research. Either way, it’s what is put into the process that separates the green from the seasoned. But what about when it comes to sign design? Does it require a different process? Absolutely! Designing for space and place is contingent on numerous factors. If your clients are asking you to take on signage and wayfinding design, we want to set you up for success. Before you design your next sign, here are three 'must-knows' that you need to add to your process:
What’s in the Docs?
Whether you have elevations, a field survey, or a full set of construction documents, you need to have a clear and accurate idea of the building and the property to determine what you can and cannot do. Everything from utility easements to building setbacks to construction materials is provided in construction documents. Before you begin your design process, understanding where your work is going to live, any limitations or obstacles, and dimensions and details of the construction will not only save you valuable time, but you might also discover opportunities that inspire you to explore new directions. Start your initial discussions with reviewing construction documents with your clients, and if they don’t have them, be sure to get a physical survey done as well as a walk-through with the general contractor.
Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A, Start
While there isn’t a secret cheat code when it comes to sign design, figuring out what will and won’t be approved by code officials will guarantee you an early win with your clients. Every city, county, neighborhood architectural committee, and development has some sort of sign code. It might also be referred to as a sign criteria. These are the not-so-clearly defined restrictions as they relate to signage. Everything from the total square footage of signage allowed per street-facing facade to approved methods of illumination and lighting temperature to colors and materials allowed can all be found in a property’s sign code. Unfortunately, where these are found isn’t as obvious as you think they should be. Sometimes a simple Google search of “city/county sign code” might take you to a site where you can search by address to determine the exact portion of the code that applies to your project. Smaller communities or unincorporated areas might prove to be a bit more unorthodox. For one project, we had to make a phone call to a Judge, who determines everything from criminal cases, marriages, divorces, as well as sign and building permits to our surprise. Sign code and criteria are different for every project. Start your search at the city or county level. Then determine if there is a neighborhood or community architectural committee that has restrictions on signage. Then, if your project is part of a shopping center or retail development, you will need to see if there is a sign criteria from the developer that you’ll need to also consider. You will have to comply with all of these.
Let’s Locate the logo
Whether you’re the wizard behind the design of the brand or you’re working with an established brand, you'll need vector files to create fabrication-ready designs for signage. You'd be surprised how many Facilities Managers, Project Managers, and even Owners have no idea what vector files are or where their brand’s assets are located. If available, we will always ask to be connected with a Partner’s in-house design team or their agency of record. Not just to receive approved logo assets, but to learn more about the brand, how it’s been applied to spaces, and any established do’s and don’ts to keep in mind. While we prefer to have official brand logo files at the start of every project, for those that just don’t or can’t find them, more times than we’d like to admit, we have had to recreate logos for partners. If you’re needing a little help quickly explaining the difference between raster and vector to your clients, feel free to download or share our New Project Start Guide.
Whether you align with the words of Confucius, 'without preparation, there is sure to be failure,' or you prefer those of Ben Franklin, 'failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail,' designers are problem solvers. We have to do the due diligence in order to deliver effective solutions. If we don’t, we aren’t properly serving our work, our clients, and ourselves. Plan your work and work your plan, and do good work.