Signage Meaning
From printed signs to directions, shopfront signs and popup banners, you probably see and walk past signage throughout your day without realising it.
Signage plays a vital role in communication, marketing, and safety, making it a valuable asset for businesses and a crucial element of our daily lives.
So, what is the definition of signage? What is it used for? And what are the benefits? In this guide, we answer all of your signage questions.
Let’s dive in.
At Image Box Design, we’re an expert graphic design agency established in 1986. Based in Berkshire, we’ve helped many brands and businesses over the years with their signage design needs. If you’re looking for a quote, get in touch, and we’ll be happy to help.
Signage Definition
Signage is a visual communication tool that conveys messages in a clear and effective manner.
When you hear “signage,” think of it as the visual language of our surroundings. It’s more than just individual signs; it’s the whole system of them.
Basically, signage is how we use signs and symbols to communicate messages. That could be anything from a simple “exit” sign to a huge, flashy billboard.
It helps us find our way, learn important information, and even decide what to buy. So, it’s a really important part of how we understand and interact with the world around us.
What is Signage Used For?
Signage serves many purposes in our daily lives. Here’s a breakdown of what signage is used for:
- Wayfinding and Direction – Guiding people through spaces, whether it’s a building, a city, or an event.
- Information and Communication – Providing essential details, such as opening hours, safety instructions, or product information.
- Advertising and Marketing – Promoting businesses, products, and services to attract customers.
- Brand Recognition – Establishing and reinforcing a company’s identity through logos and consistent visual elements.
- Safety and Regulation – Displaying warnings, hazard alerts, and regulatory information to ensure safety.
- Enhancing Aesthetics – Contributing to the visual appeal of a space, adding to its overall atmosphere.
Types of Signage
Signage varies widely, serving diverse purposes.
Exterior signage, like storefront and pylon signs, attracts attention outdoors, while interior signage, such as wayfinding and POP displays, guides and informs within spaces.
Functionally, informational signs provide details, directional signs aid navigation, and promotional signs advertise.
Digital signage utilises screens for dynamic content, contrasting with traditional printed or metal signs.
- Exterior: Storefront, pylon, and vehicle graphics.
- Interior: Wayfinding, POP displays, and wall signs.
- Functional: Informational, directional, and promotional.
- Technology: Digital (LED, LCD) and traditional (printed, metal).
Benefits of Signage
Signage provides a wide range of benefits, impacting both businesses and the general public. Here are some key advantages:
For Businesses:
- Increased Brand Awareness:
- Signage prominently displays a company’s name, logo, and brand colors, enhancing recognition and visibility.
- Enhanced Marketing and Sales:
- Effective signage attracts potential customers, promotes products and services, and can drive impulse purchases.
- Improved Communication:
- Signage conveys essential information, such as business hours, promotions, and contact details.
- Competitive Advantage:
- Unique and eye-catching signage helps businesses stand out from competitors.
- Cost-Effective Advertising:
- Signage can be a long-term, cost-effective marketing tool.
- Creates a strong first impression:
- The quality of a business’s signage helps to shape the customer’s first impression of that business.
For the Public:
- Wayfinding and Navigation:
- Signage provides directions and guidance, making it easier to navigate unfamiliar environments.
- Safety and Information:
- Safety signs warn of hazards, and informational signs provide essential details.
- Enhanced Experience:
- Well-designed signage contributes to a positive and informative experience in public spaces.
- Clarity:
- Good signage reduces confusion.
Signage For Brands and Businesses by Image Box Design
At Image Box Design, we offer graphic design services for exhibition displays, vehicle graphics, pop-up banners, wall signs, large format printing, and any other types of signage services you may require.
If you have a project, would like to discuss your requirements with us, or would like a quote, please get in touch! We’ll be happy to help.
FAQs
What is an example of signage?
To give you a clear picture, here are some everyday examples of signage:
- Road signs:
- These are perhaps the most universally recognised. They include stop signs, speed limit signs, and directional signs that guide drivers.
- Storefront signs:
- A business’s name and logo displayed above its entrance is a classic example. This helps customers identify and locate the establishment.
- Digital menu boards:
- In restaurants, these electronic displays showcase menu items and prices, often with dynamic visuals.
- Exit signs:
- These are crucial for safety, indicating emergency escape routes in buildings.
- Information kiosks:
- These can be digital or static and provide information within locations such as shopping centres or museums.
- Safety warning signs:
- Signs indicating “wet floor” or “high voltage” are very common examples of safety signage.
Essentially, any visual display that conveys information can be considered signage.
What is the main purpose of signage?
The main purpose is to connect with a particular audience. Whether it’s wayfinding signage guiding people or promotional signage shouting about deals, the purpose of signs is clear communication. It’s a powerful tool, a kind of visual graphics that gets the message across.
What is signage in the workplace?
In corporate environments, signage is essential. Informational signage details safety protocols, while wayfinding signs help navigate complex buildings. It’s about clear communication, especially regarding potential hazards. Good signage solutions contribute to a safer, more efficient work environment.
What is signage in business?
For businesses, signage is a vital form of advertising. From outdoor advertising to indoor signage in retail environments, it shapes customer experience. At trade shows, different types of signage draw in a specific audience. Simply put, it’s about boosting visibility and attracting customers in modern times.
How does signage contribute to branding?
Signage helps build brand identity by showing logos and messages regularly. This affects how customers feel about the brand. Retail signage, like promotional signs that highlight new products, is very important in shaping how people see the brand.
Can digital signage replace traditional signage?
Digital signage has the ability to show moving content. However, traditional signage, like large-format printing, is still important. The best type of signage for you will depend on your budget, where it will be placed and the message you want to share.
Related Guides:
- What is Print Media?
- What is Marketing Collateral?
- What is Colour Theory in Graphic Design?
- 12 Key Advantages of Print Advertising
- 9 Essential Tips for Powerful Corporate Graphic Design
- What is Brand Identity?
- What is Graphic Design?
