A business sign has one main purpose: to communicate clearly and quickly. Whether it is mounted on your building, displayed in a window, or placed along the sidewalk, your sign usually has only a few seconds to grab attention and deliver a message. That is why it is so important to focus on the right information instead of trying to say everything at once.
Start with Your Business Name
Your business name should always be the most noticeable part of your sign. This is what builds recognition and helps people remember who you are. Make sure the name is easy to read from a distance and stands out against the background. Strong contrast and simple, legible fonts go a long way toward making your sign more effective. If someone cannot read your name quickly, the rest of the message will not matter.
Include a Short Description of What You Do
If your business name does not clearly explain your services, a short tagline or description can help. For example, a landscaping company might include “Landscape Design and Maintenance,” or a bakery might use “Fresh Baked Goods Daily.” The key is to keep it brief and to the point. Your sign is not meant to list every service you offer.
A good comparison is a restaurant sign. You do not see the entire menu on the front of the building. You simply see the name and the type of food. The goal is to let people know what to expect, not to overwhelm them with details.
Add Only the Most Important Contact Details
Depending on the type of sign, you may want to include a phone number, website, or suite number. This is especially helpful in multi-tenant buildings, industrial areas, or other hard-to-find locations. However, not every sign needs contact information. A large building sign is usually meant for brand recognition, while a yard sign or window graphic might include more details.
If you do add contact information, keep it simple and easy to read. Avoid squeezing in too many numbers or long website addresses that are difficult to remember.
Think About Viewing Distance
Where your sign is placed plays a big role in what information it should include. A sign that faces a busy street needs fewer words and larger lettering so drivers can read it in a few seconds. On the other hand, an interior sign in a lobby or reception area can include more detail because people have more time to read it.
Before finalizing a design, think about how far away your audience will be and how quickly they will need to understand the message.
Keep the Design Consistent with Your Brand
Your sign should match the rest of your branding. This includes your logo, colors, and overall style. Consistent design helps build trust and makes your business easier to recognize across different types of signage, from vehicle graphics to window decals and interior signs.
When everything looks connected and intentional, your business appears more professional and established.
Get the Right Message on the Right Sign
Choosing the right information for your sign can make a big difference in how well it performs. At Hollywood Signs & Graphics, businesses in the Portland and Troutdale, Oregon area rely on our team to design signage that is clear, professional, and built to get results. From building signs and window graphics to vehicle wraps, banners, architectural signage, and more, we can help you create a sign that communicates the right message at a glance.
Explore our full range of signage capabilities online and start planning your next business sign.
Leave a Reply