Hang a banner, hang a shingle, but don't open your doors without a sign. It's your absolute minimum form of advertising and can be one of your maximum draws of traffic. Shop around because there's wide variation in what you'll find for pricing, quality of graphics, durability of materials, speed of delivery and size options. And you'll want to consider both indoor and outdoor signs.
Here are some steps to guide you in deciding which type of sign is right for your business.
Banners are flexible and inexpensive, but many sign production services companies also offer dimensional letters, exhibit and display signage, point-of-purchase signs, illuminated signs, vinyl lettering, decals, and signage for vehicles
Most signage companies can work with your own logos and graphics while some offer complete design services as well.
Because signage can give customers a first impression of your business, you'll want to err on the side of quality.
To get started, your primary decision is to order online or use a local sign shop.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Order locally
Local signage shops and services give you face-to-face ordering and service, but they might not offer the best price.
What you don't get in face-to-face service can sometimes be mitigated by handy Web-based forms, design-your-own online options, less expensive pricing, and fast delivery.
Tips & Tactics Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
Don't skimp on the proofing process. If you use an online form, you want to proof your design before it goes into production; otherwise, if you mistype your business name, you might find it in huge lettering at your doorstep soon.
Vinyl banner signs are not always seamless, so you'll want to choose a seam design based on your durability needs. For instance, banner tape is the least durable, while chemical and heat welding, as well as double-lock stitching, are most durable.
Before you order, make sure you understand your local signage laws and permit requirements.
The official source of Banner and Sign Production Services is the Banner Signs page at Business.com
advertising signs Resources Find advertising signs. Search listings and reviews of retailers, specialists and services in your area. JustClickLocal.com
Design A Sign: Signs and Banners
DesignaSign offers a wide variety of sign types on a variety of materials, both ready made and original. There are also several useful articles on topics such as making your own sign and the pros and cons of vinyl signs.
Megaprint: Large Format Experts
Megaprint prints large full color posters. They specialize in retail store displays and meeting and event signage.
Trade Show Shop: Trade Show Displays
Trade Show Shop sells banners, banner stands, and everything else necessary to have an attractive, original exhibition booth.
Sign Web: The Signmaker's Resource
Sign Web has news and information on the sign industry. There are articles on all types of signs from neon to LED.
Sign Industry: Online Industry Magazine
Sign Industry has a variety of resources for sign buyers and the professional sign maker. Visitors can find out information about industry events, local sign associations, and sign making classes.
Best Blogs and Forums
Sign Supply Store: Sign Forums
The various threads of these forums include buying and selling sign making equipment and a font exchange.
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