10.14.2015
Tips to Scheduling a Sign Installation
Scheduling a sign installation sounds like something simple. Pick a spot on the calendar, fill in the time, and everything else takes care of itself.
In reality, several working parts goes into installing a sign because the installation is not only an event, it’s the end of the culmination of great work put in by several craftsmen from as many different walks of life.
So that you properly know what to expect during your installation project, here are a few tips to aide in the planning
1) Anything worth having is worth waiting a little while
Even the best symphony needs a little time to make sure all the working parts work together seamlessly. Your custom outdoor signage isn’t sitting on the back shelf with 50 identical others, even if you’re a franchise. There are several nuances and intricacies that go into the signage that make even the most cookie-cutter styles unique.
2) Small signs do not mean there will be a short turnaround time
The size of the sign isn’t the best indicator of a signage project. The best indicator when it comes to construction is the type of materials being utilized. The rest is process.
3) Large signs does not mean there will be a long turnaround time
While larger signs usually involve moving parts, especially in installation, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the project will take longer than if a small sign is used.
The size of the signage can typically lead to more intricacies in the design, but if the signage’s location makes for an installation that won’t involve too much red tape or paperwork, then, as in small signage installation, the turnaround time will be more contiguous upon the materials used.
4) Coordination could involve more than just the company and the sign company
Some signage installation involves getting up a ladder, pulling out a lever and popping in a few screws. Those installations are few and far between.
The rest of them usually involves paperwork, approvals, and cooperation from a variety of places: electric company, city planners, landlords, suppliers...you get the picture.
And, yes, we help getting the required approval.
5) Electric results takes an electric effort
Sometimes the signage installation needs wiring. Sometimes, the installation location needs power run to it. Then there are times when obstructions need to be removed. That’s not including the aforementioned approvals to use an electric sign.
They’re absolutely worth it, but the steps it takes to get the power needed doesn’t usually all get confirmed by the morning’s first coffee break.
6) Time will be needed to draft, revise, and test
It would truly expedite the process if the client sent us an image and we just showed up a few days later with the sign. But, that typically doesn’t provide the best results.
Drafts, revisions, mockups, we do the works to make sure the clients can properly envision what their brand will look like out in the wild.
7) The more professional the installation, the more professional the installation
Over the last 30+ years, we’ve developed a tried-and-true process the helps account for every detail in the signage process. From creation to installation, our professional staff knows how to exact our client’s vision.
And we know how long it will take. We stick to the process, and let the process inform us how long the installation process will take.
8) A little PR goes a long, long way
An event such as signage installation will generate some positive press coverage in your industry’s niche magazines as well as local media. Get the word out so you can get all the positive momentum you can as a result of your new signage.
9) Schedule the planned maintenance...now
All great things need scheduled care. Be it a computer, the human body, your kitchen cutlery, and your signage. To keep it looking your best, keep care.
It’s best to be proactive about it so you don’t get caught up in a reactionary loop which usually ends up resulting in the neglect of the sign.
10) Track the paperwork
Keep track of your warranties, receipts, and other notes of documentation. You’ll never know when you need them.
