Adding or replacing a business sign is an incredible opportunity for businesses. Surveys show that businesses can see as much as a 10% bump in revenues when they install a new sign. What’s more, branded signs and spaces can help attract the attention of potential customers.
That’s why finding the right sign company for your project is vitally important. You need a partner that can make the branding journey effortless while delivering the value you expect.
Find out the eight things you need to consider when searching for the right signage partner for your business.
Why Finding the Right Signage Company Is Essential
Signs are some of the first visual touchpoints for your business. They can make or break perceptions, provide marketing opportunities, and impact employee morale. The right sign partner will help you:
- Find and install signs that fit your branding goals.
- Assess your space, suggest concepts, and bring your vision to life.
- Design custom branded signs that incorporate your logo and colors.
- Ensure safe, accessible spaces and reduce the risk of ADA-related fines.
- Provide hassle-free ownership year after year.
- Assist with signage permits and advise on local zoning laws.
- Manage a project from start to finish, allowing you to stay focused on your business.
These reasons are a few examples of why finding the right signage partner from the outset is essential.
8 Things to Look for In a Sign Company
Here are eight things you should check when you’re looking for the right sign partner for your business.
1. Do They Offer All the Signs You Need?
First and foremost, you need to find a team that can design, print, and manufacture all the signs you need. While it may seem that all sign companies near you offer all types of signs, that’s often not the case.
Double-check that the team you’re considering can install everything from outdoor entrance signs to indoor vinyl wall murals. That will save you the headache of having to find different partners for different signage needs.
2. Are They a Full-Service Outfit?
In addition to offering all types of signs, the sign company must offer all the services you need, too. That will include signage consultations, sign plans, custom designs, manufacturing, and installation.
Working with a full-service signage company offers several advantages:
- Seamless branding experience.
- No hassles of coordinating with different teams.
- Cohesive designs from one team.
- Incentive to complete the project on time and within budget.
3. Does Their Team Have Experience?
There is no shortage of sign shops near you, but not all shops offer the same experience and expertise. Your goal should be to identify a team that brings years of experience in visual communication, marketing, and signage.
Their experience will prove invaluable, as they’ll be better able to guide you with branding. What’s more, a knowledgeable team can assist with obtaining sign permits, advise on ADA signage requirements, and help you make informed decisions for your business.
4. What Do Customers Say About Their Experiences?
Testimonials and reviews from satisfied customers are some of the most powerful types of proof for any business. Check websites such as Facebook, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau to find out what people have to say about the signage company. You can also ask the company for customer references so you can speak to business owners and administrators who have had experience working with the company.
Reviews can also tell you what aspects of the service other customers were particularly satisfied with. They can also highlight any potential red flags you need to be aware of.
5. Do They Offer Signs That Suit Your Budget?
This is one of the most important questions to ask any sign company. If the company doesn’t cater to your budget or doesn’t have a wide selection of signs at your price point, you need to look elsewhere.
Unless you have a range of signs to choose from, you’ll end up compromising on your branded project. That said, beware of low-cost signage, too! Low-cost signs could mean low-quality signs or hidden charges at the end of the project.
6. What Kind of After-Sales Support Do They Provide?
Installing signs is one piece of the puzzle, the other is getting the utility and value you expect. For that, your signs must offer hassle-free performance. That’s where after-sales service comes in.
You need sign companies thatoffer comprehensive after-sales support, eliminating maintenance hassles for you. You should ask about the company’s routine maintenance services, as well as emergency repairs. If the company doesn’t provide those, it could mean having to find another company that will service your signs, ultimately increasing your administrative hassles.
7. Have You Checked Their Portfolio?
It’s vitally important that the signage companycan design the kind of signs you’re looking for. Ask to see their catalog of past signage projects. This will give you a good idea about the kind of designs they create, and whether they suit your tastes.
For instance, a company that predominantly works on templated designs may not be the right fit for you if your expectations are high for customized signs.
8. What’s the Team Like to Work With?
If you are looking for a branding partner, you need to ensure you’re comfortable working with their team. Try to gauge how responsive they are, how receptive they are to your ideas, the attitude they bring, and what the culture seems to be like.
For example, while many sign shops near you may be able to create customized signs, they may not offer the kind of personalized experience you want. That’s why it’s essential to understand who exactly you’ll be interacting with during the lifecycle of your branding project.
Book a Free Consultation with a Top Sign Company
Excel Signworks is one of the top sign companies in Pittsburgh, trusted by everyone from marketing companies to law firms. Our team provides end-to-end services, providing an effortless signage experience. To find out if we are the right team for you, book a free consultation today. You will speak to an experienced signage professional who will be happy to answer your questions.