Office signs have a huge impact on how customers and employees see your business. They help visitors find their way around your space and your brand. In fact 60% of businesses saw revenue growth of 10% or more after adding or updating their signs.
But choosing the wrong signs or overlooking things like readability, size or material can waste resources and opportunities. This guide covers the common office signage mistakes and how to avoid them so you stand out for all the right reasons.
Understanding the Importance of Selecting the Right Office Signs
Office signs are more than a design choice – they’re part of your brand experience. The best office signs do more than provide wayfinding or safety info. They show your brand, whether it’s a logo at the entrance or clear signs inside the building.
Signs also affect how people interact with your space. Good signs create a professional, functional space. Bad signs create confusion. Choosing the right office signs is key to a smooth office experience.
Common Office Signage Mistakes & Their Solution
Mistake #1: Ignoring Branding Guidelines
Your office signs should reflect your brand. Not following your company’s brand guidelines – colors, fonts, logo use – can make your signs look out of place and dilute your overall image.
Best Practice: Always make sure your signs match your brand. Use the same fonts, colors and logo placement as your marketing materials to look professional and cohesive.
Mistake #2: Poor Readability
If people can’t easily read your signs, they won’t serve their purpose. Small fonts, weak color contrasts, or complicated designs can reduce readability, leaving visitors confused.
Best Practice: Prioritize clear, legible fonts with strong contrast between text and background. For example, dark text on a light background or vice versa works well. Keep your message short and to the point for easy reading.
Mistake #3: Crowded Letters
Packing too many words or squeezing in lots of letters on a sign makes it hard to read and unattractive.
Best Practice: Keep your design clean with ample spacing between letters and words. A less cluttered sign is more inviting and easier to digest. Stick to the essentials—less is often more
Mistake #4: Choosing the Wrong Signage Size
Signs that are too small will be overlooked, those that are too big will overwhelm the space.
Best Practice: Measure your space and choose a sign size for the viewing distance. Outdoor signs need to be bigger for visibility from afar, indoor signs should be proportional to the space they occupy
Mistake #5: Using Illegible Fonts
Fonts that are too fancy or too complex look nice but often sacrifice readability.
Best Practice: Go for clean and simple fonts that are easy to read from a distance. Avoid fancy fonts unless they’re part of your brand and still readable.
Mistake #6: Poor Location
Even the best designed signs will fail if placed in the wrong spot. A sign hidden behind furniture or too high or too low won’t get the attention it needs.
Best Practice: Place signs at eye level and in sightlines. For outdoor signs make sure they’re visible from the street and not blocked by trees or other buildings.
Mistake #7: Choosing the Wrong Signage Material
Different environments require different materials. A wooden sign looks great indoors but will weather poorly outdoors.
Best Practice: Choose material based on environment. For outdoor signs, materials like metal, acrylic or treated wood can withstand the elements. Indoors you have more flexibility but consider durability and aesthetics.
Mistake #8: Improper Installation
A poorly installed sign can look crooked, unstable, or even fall, causing safety hazards.
Best Practice: Professional installation is key. Ensure your sign is mounted securely and aligned correctly. Use the right mounting hardware to keep it safe and durable.
Mistake #9: Overlooking Local Regulations
Many cities have signage rules that dictate size, placement and even colors. Ignoring these rules can result in fines or removal of your sign.
Best Practice: Check your local zoning laws and signage regulations before you decide. Compliance from the start saves time and money.
Mistake #10: Not Considering Maintenance Needs
All signs need some maintenance but neglecting maintenance will result in faded, damaged or worn out signs that will reflect poorly on your business.
Best Practice: Choose materials that are easy to maintain. For example, metal and acrylic signs are low maintenance and durable. Set a schedule for regular cleaning and checkups to keep your signs looking fresh.
Mistake #11: Overcomplicating the Design
Sometimes businesses try to put too much information or too many design elements in a sign and it becomes cluttered and ineffective.
Best Practice: Stick to a simple, clean design. Focus on one key message per sign and avoid unnecessary graphics or text. A clear design makes a stronger impression.
Mistake #12: Failing to Incorporate Directional Signage
Directional signs are essential for guiding visitors, but they’re often overlooked. Without them, people might struggle to navigate your office.
Best Practice: Plan your signage layout to include clear directional signs. Use arrows and simple instructions to help people find their way easily
Additional Office Signage Tips
In addition to avoiding common office signage mistakes, follow these tips to create great looking and effective office signs that enhance your space and brand:
- Know Your Audience: Who will be using your signs? Customer facing signs should focus on branding, internal signs on wayfinding or safety.
- Test Your Signs: Before finalizing a design, create mock-ups and put them in the location to test visibility and readability.
- Be Consistent Across Locations: If you have multiple offices, make sure signage is uniform to strengthen your brand.
- Consider Lighting: Use backlit signs or place lighting in strategic areas to make signs visible in low light.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Fonts Are Best for Business Signs?
Helvetia, Arial and Futura are the simple, clean fonts for business signs. Easy to read from a distance and professional looking.
What Information Should I Prioritize on My Sign?
Focus on the essentials—business name, logo and any directions or instructions. Keep it clear and concise so it doesn’t get cluttered.
How Often Should I Maintain My Business Sign?
Inspect and maintain your sign at least 4 times a year. Outdoor signs need more frequent checks to address weather damage.
What Materials Are Best for Durable Signs?
Metal, acrylic and treated wood are the best for durability especially for outdoor signs. They can withstand the weather and look good for a long time.
Elevate Your Space with Branditt’s Expert Office Sign Solutions
Choosing the right office signs is key to making an impact and being functional. At Branditt we have custom office signs to suit your business needs, so you don’t make the mistakes listed in this guide.
Whether you need interior office signs or tough outdoor signs, our team will deliver professional office signs that match your brand and your space.
Not sure where to start? Our experts are here to help. From office signs design to installation we’ll guide you every step of the way to get the best results. Visit our website to read our full guide to office signs and find out how we can sign your business today. Let Branditt make your office stand out with great signs!