ROOM SIGNS – Avoid SIGN REGRET!

When you are planning a construction project its common to have ?decision fatigue? and as a result, room signs will often end up at the end of the list, ordered at the last minute, or given no real thought or discussion.

We replaced many brand new, good quality room signs simply because they were not thought over and once installed the owner of the building was angry or frustrated they didn’t do their job. I once was brought into a multi-million dollar stadium to quote replacing dozens of room signs that were made wrong. The used the architect’s room numbering and naming rather than thinking about the actual end users, so they ended up with vague room signs like ?OFFICES 2.44.126?.

The easiest way to avoid ?sign regret? are some simple questions to ask yourself during the planning process. The questions are simple, but the answers may not be. If these questions lead to MORE questions, you may want to seek the advice of an experienced sign company!

1. Will the messages on these room signs change? (Like office name, use of room, etc.) If so, be sure to consider flexible options. In addition, be curious about HOW they change and whether it is something YOU, as the end user, can manage and oversee! Flexible signs can be more expensive, but save you money in the long run by never needing to be replaced. 
2. Will these signs be vulnerable to vandalism? Are there young or bored residents lounging in hallways with mischievous fingers that like to peel and poke at signs? If so, seek out options that are vandal proof or resistant. Graphics can be applied on the BACK of the sign panel, viewable through a clear face. 
3. Who will use the signage? In other words, is your facility confusing only to new employees on their first day? Or do you have general public visiting hourly, navigating your hallways? This is critical! Be sure you understand WHO will be using your signs to navigate, and HOW OFTEN to determine how much to invite in wayfinding to get them where they are going. 
4. Should the signs have branding of some kind or simple basic lettering? In many facilities, they have BOTH options, depending on what areas are client facing. Projects can be made affordable with more basic signage being installed in private areas. 
5. What kind of budget are you prepared to spend? The dizzying array of room sign options make this a very important question to consider. Room number makers can cost as little as $20 each and as much as $250 each. Coming in prepared with some range of budget will make your job easier and save you time and money in the long run! 

Looking for more information to navigate YOUR signage design and purchase? We would love to help!