SIGN TYPES TO KNOW
Four Easy Classifications
Identification
Pretty self-explanatory, right? We want people to know they’re in the right place!
This is where Identification Signage comes into play.
Whether that’s your company’s logo on the side of a building, a specific department name at a check-in desk, or calling out employee desk locations, these IDs play a key role in helping everyone acclimate to the space.
These signs can be designed in all different shapes, sizes, and materials. Metal, painted brand color, illuminated – the options are endless!
Wayfinding
There’s a saying in Maine: “You can't get there from here.”
This phrase was typically used (pre-GPS) when a traveler asked a local resident for directions that could never be put into words without complex written instructions. Rather than both parties being worked into a confused frenzy, the easiest thing for the local to say was, “You can't get there from here” and move on with their day.
This is where Wayfinding Signage comes into play.
Whether you’re exploring a new office space, wandering through a museum, or trying to find the restroom at a sports stadium, you are surrounded by these signs to help you find your way!
Sign styles include Directories and Directionals that utilize arrows, icons, and colors to direct to key locations.
These signs are placed at Major Decision Points including building entrances, elevator lobbies, and hallway intersections.
Regulatory
“Do we really need that sign…?”
Though the majority of signage decisions can be made directly by the architect and/or design firm, there are a number of sign regulations by various state and federal agencies.
This is where Regulatory Signage comes into play.
The most commonly known requirement is that of “The Standards for Accessible Design” or “ADA Code” which covers things such as braille, font style/size, and placement around the building. Regulatory signage can cover everything from ADA to fire safety, emergency egress, and property management.
Specialty
There’s always going to be one or two situations that need something outside the brand book.
You can put as many addendums to your brand book as you like but when it comes to signage – there are always going to be little differences between one site to another that call for a one-off design.
This is where Specialty Signage comes into play.
Whether it has to do with local recycling/trash rules, parking signage, or matching something to building standards, there needs to be a little wiggle room to accommodate for different verbiage or iconography while still holding true to the brand guidelines that took so much effort to create.
Not to mention, every building has a new opportunity for specialty graphics and signage to make it one-of-a-kind. See the images below highlighting specialty wall features and glass treatments.
Need help understanding signage regulations or coming up with interesting ways to incorporate wayfinding? Our team of signage design and installation professionals are here to help. Reach out with any questions you may have, or to get a quote for your next project.