Raleigh Sign Company Explains the Benefits of a Unified Sign Plan

The team at DesignElement, a Raleigh, NC, sign company, always strives to deliver the best signage and sign management solutions to its clients. One of the ways in which DesignElement serves the signage needs of commercial clients is through a Unified Sign Plan.

What is a Unified Sign Plan?

A Unified Sign Plan is a document that ensures the consistency of a property’s visual identity. The goal of the plan is to create one design language that is uniform across the property as a whole in order to mark the space as unique and different yet unified. Property managers want to make sure that their property is visually distinct and differentiates itself from neighboring developments, strip malls, or commercial properties.

What are the benefits of a Unified Sign Plan?

Usually, buildings within the same development are built with a specific architectural style that communicates that these buildings relate to each other. A USP enables property managers to make sure that the signage used on the property is consistent with the overall style of the development.

While local ordinances provide a baseline for signage restrictions, the USP further restricts the style of signage used on a property. Having a Unified Sign Plan ensures that every entity within a particular property is using the same fonts, colors, and sign construction.

A USP specifically indicates what exterior signage a potential tenant is allowed to use. When a Unified Sign Plan is included in the leasing agreement, the tenant can clearly understand what signage is permitted on the property and can present the USP to a sign company that will design signs that are compliant.

What types of companies use a Unified Sign Plan?

USPs are primarily used by retail developers, commercial developers, and municipalities. A USP is necessary for any group of businesses in a multi-tenant scenario, including properties such as strip malls, business parks, commercial parks, and even properties where one or two buildings are side by side.

Often, a USP is required by a local ordinance. The cities of Raleigh, Durham, and Cary, NC, all require that a USP be filed with the municipality.

What does the filing process entail?

To create a Unified Sign Plan, DesignElement composes a multi-page document that comprises a written narrative as well as visual design layouts that outline exactly what signage a tenant may and may not have. The finished document could range anywhere from two pages to fifty pages, depending on the scope of factors that needs to be covered. Once the USP is filed, the developer or property manager presents the document to current or potential tenants.

Does having a USP in place speed up the sign permit application process?

While a USP will not accelerate the permit application process, having the USP in place is a necessary function at the local level. When a business applies for an exterior sign permit, the municipality reviews the permit application against the USP.

What are the benefits of hiring DesignElement to create a USP?

As a sign manufacturing company, DesignElement of Raleigh is extremely familiar with sign materials, installation methods, and manufacturing methods. In addition, the team understands how to create signs that harmonize with the existing environment or landscape.

Can DesignElement provide sign design and installation services, in addition to composing the USP?

Because DesignElement is a full-service sign company, the team can design and build signs that are approved by the USP. In fact, it makes sense for tenants to hire DesignElement of Raleigh for sign design if the property manager hired the company to create the USP. Since the team composed the USP document, they will know exactly how to make signs that are compliant. Both the tenant and the property manager can have confidence that signs from DesignElement conform to USP standards.

Design Element provides expert design services, permit acquisition, construction, construction management, logistics, and ongoing maintenance of the sign as needed. Whether tenants need a wayfinding sign, dimensional graphics, illuminated signage, or any other permanent or temporary signage solution, they can trust DesignElement of Raleigh to deliver a sign package that is not only elegant and attractive to customers but that is also compliant with local ordinances and USP regulations.

For information about signage in Raleigh, NC, contact DesignElement of Raleigh by phone at (919) 851-2066.

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source https://designelement-us.com/press-releases/raleigh-sign-company-explains-the-benefits-of-a-unified-sign-plan/

Raleigh, NC, Sign Company Explains How Signs Promote Safety

Keeping employees and customers safe is a priority for Raleigh, NC, businesses. One of the ways that companies can promote safety at their facilities is by investing in safety signs. An office will likely post different safety warnings than a factory or a restaurant, but all types of businesses can benefit from installing safety signage that is relevant to their industry.

Safety signs perform a threefold function — cautioning, notifying, and guiding. These signs call attention to real or potential safety hazards that customers and employees need to be aware of in order to avoid injury. Most industries are required to post certain types of safety signage.

It is essential that safety signs feature a clear, easy-to-read design. If a safety sign can not be read quickly and if the sign’s content is not clear in its warning, then the sign will not be effective at preventing accidents. A skilled sign company in Raleigh, NC, will be able to design and produce customized safety signage that harmonizes with the client’s brand identity while still complying with federal, state, and local requirements.

The federal regulatory agency that is responsible for establishing effective safety guidelines is the Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA. In a regulation entitled “Specifications for accident prevention signs and tags,” OSHA outlines classifications of safety signs as follows:

• Danger signs – “All employees shall be instructed that danger signs indicate immediate danger and that special precautions are necessary.”
• Caution signs – “Caution signs shall be used only to warn against potential hazards or to caution against unsafe practices. All employees shall be instructed that caution signs indicate a possible hazard against which proper precaution should be taken.”
• Safety instruction signs – “Safety instruction signs shall be used where there is a need for general instructions and suggestions relative to safety measures.”
• Biological hazard signs – “The biological hazard warning shall be used to signify the actual or potential presence of a biohazard and to identify equipment, containers, rooms, materials, experimental animals, or combinations thereof, which contain, or are contaminated with, viable hazardous agents.”

Safety signs should be posted in places where people can easily and clearly see them. High visibility is a key consideration when choosing the location in which to place a safety sign. Also, make sure that the sign is placed within close proximity to the relevant hazard or potential hazard. This practice will help to prevent people from becoming confused or misunderstanding the sign’s message.

Signage commonly required by OSHA includes:

• Exit signs
• Fire signs
• First Aid station signs
• No smoking signs
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) signs
• High voltage signs
• Machinery signs
• Slip and fall signs
• Low overhead signs

In terms of a safety sign’s content, OSHA provides the following instructions: “The wording of any sign should be easily read and concise. The sign should contain sufficient information to be easily understood. The wording should make a positive, rather than negative suggestion and should be accurate in fact.”

Color is a central part of safety sign design. Because color is such a powerful communication tool, OSHA has specific guidelines relating to the use of color in certain safety signs. Danger signs, for instance, should be red, black, and white. Regarding caution signs, OSHA states, “The standard color of the background shall be yellow; and the panel, black with yellow letters. Any letters used against the yellow background shall be black.” Similar instructions are given about the colors used in safety instruction signs. “The standard color of the background shall be white; and the panel, green with white letters. Any letters used against the white background shall be black.”

Finally, businesses must make sure that their safety signs are not hazards in and of themselves. According to OSHA, “All signs shall be furnished with rounded or blunt corners and shall be free from sharp edges, burrs, splinters, or other sharp projections. The ends or heads of bolts or other fastening devices shall be located in such a way that they do not constitute a hazard.”

DesignElement of Raleigh, NC, is the premier choice for signage services in the local area. The team is highly experienced and produces complete sign packages for projects of any size and scope. With a broad knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and code compliance, DesignElement is an indispensable partner for Raleigh, NC, businesses.

To learn more about sign design in Raleigh, NC, contact DesignElement of Raleigh by phone at (919) 851-2066.

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source https://designelement-us.com/press-releases/raleigh-nc-sign-company-explains-how-signs-promote-safety/

Local Sign Company Explains the Benefits of Custom Signs for Holiday Marketing

The holiday season is a busy time of year for business owners. Local businesses are preparing for a rush of customers who will be buying seasonal items, taking advantage of holiday promotions, and purchasing gifts. Now is the time to invest in marketing solutions, such as custom signs, that will draw in customers during this prime shopping season.

The National Retail Federation reports that “holiday sales represent about 20 percent of annual retail sales each year, but the figure can be higher for some retailers. Hobby, toy, and game stores report the highest share at about 30 percent. In addition, holiday sales can be more profitable because the increased volume of purchases comes without significantly increasing retailers’ fixed costs of doing business.”

With the diversity of sales opportunities that the holidays present, business owners will want to make sure that they make the most of all their marketing options. Promotions and sales events are excellent ways to reach customers. If a business is planning to offer seasonal products and sales, it will need to get the word out to both regular and new customers. Working with the best Raleigh sign company is essential when a local business is deciding on marketing materials for the holidays.

As a local Signarama partner, DesignElement of Raleigh, NC, provides turnkey signage solutions and produces quality products with a fast turnaround time. The company offers a wide variety of products to help businesses advertise during the holiday season and throughout the year. Some of DesignElement’s quick turn advertising solutions are listed below.

Retractable Banners

Because retractable banners fit neatly in empty spaces, they are ideal for storefronts with limited amounts of space. The banner can also be easily transported and is simple to set up and break down. The retractable feature removes unsightly folds and creases, making sure that the design and images remain smooth and clear. In addition, retractable banners offer the following benefits:

• Affordable
• Easy to use
• Lightweight
• Customizable
• Portable
• Attractive
• Durable
• Reliable

DesignElement of Raleigh offers both single-sided and double-sided banner models.

Yard Signs

Yard signs are available in many different sizes and are very affordable marketing materials. The right sign size for a business will depend on where the sign will need to be placed. For instance, a business located on a residential street with slow-moving traffic may only need an 18×24 Coroplast sign, while a business located on a busy thoroughfare may require a larger sign to attract the attention of passersby.

Sidewalk Signs

When a store is located in a busy area, the business owner may have a hard time strategizing a way to stand out from competing businesses. A simple, cost-effective solution is to invest in sidewalk signs, such as A-frame signs, sandwich signs, or WindMaster signs. No matter what products or services a business sells, it can benefit from portable, easy to implement sidewalk signs. There are so many options for sidewalk signs. Choices include:

• Dry erase signs
• A-frame signs
• Chalkboard signs
• Wood signs
• Changeable letter signs
• Weather-resistant signs

When producing signs for a client, DesignElement only uses high-quality materials and works with cutting-edge equipment. In addition, sidewalk signs can be fitted with varying weight systems that allow for easy transportation and storage — essential qualities for when the store owner or employees are closing the store at the end of a long day.

Feather Flag Banners

Attractive, mobile, and easy to install, feather flag banners are popular for use on storefronts and in parking lots. Feather flags, which can be either single-sided or double-sided, are designed to move with the wind, creating a flowing, graceful effect. Choosing a double-sided feather flag means that the advertisement will be visible to most pedestrians and drivers.

Printed Banners

Printed banners are ideal for a wide range of applications, such as decorating a storefront, highlighting a charity event, or announcing a big sale. DesignElement offers many sizes, styles, and colors for banners. Materials that clients can choose from include the following options:

• Vinyl
• Poly
• Nylon
• Flex-face
• Fabric
• Mesh

Whatever holiday sales events and promotions a local business owner wants to advertise, DesignElement of Raleigh can design, print, and deliver custom signage that will draw the attention of customers. To learn more about the company’s custom signage solutions, contact DesignElement of Raleigh by phone at (919) 851-2066.

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source https://designelement-us.com/press-releases/local-sign-company-explains-the-benefits-of-custom-signs-for-holiday-marketing/

Raleigh, NC, Sign Company Explains the Importance of ADA Compliant Signage

The team at DesignElement of Raleigh has years of experience in the sign design industry. One of the Raleigh sign company’s specialties is creating ADA compliant signs and sign packages for businesses and organizations. The staff at DesignElement understands the applicable regulations, standards, and codes, as well as pitfalls to avoid in a design. DesignElement is able to produce signs that are not only ADA compliant but also visually attractive. We make our signs in house and this enables us to quickly produce and install additional last-minute signs with reduced lead time and often reduced charges than competitors.  

What Is ADA?

In 1990, the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law. According to the ADA National Network, this civil rights law “prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public. The purpose of the law is to make sure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. The ADA gives civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities similar to those provided to individuals on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, and religion. It guarantees equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities in public accommodations, employment, transportation, state and local government services, and telecommunications.”

What Is ADA Compliance?

The ADA includes specific requirements for signage, mainly to accommodate the needs of sight-impaired persons. Signs must be placed in a convenient location and must be readable for those with low vision, as well as those who can only read through the use of Braille. If they have more than ten employees, public and private establishments — including retail merchants, social service center establishments, government offices, schools, hospitals, stadiums, banks, hotels, and restaurants —  are required to comply with ADA signage guidelines.

Almost all architectural signs are subject to ADA requirements. These include:

• Signs identifying exits
• Signs identifying permanent spaces and permanent rooms, such as electrical rooms and bathrooms
• Signs informing people about functional areas in a facility
• Signs involving informational or directional information about a facility’s accessibility features
• Signs communicating safety information and protocols

Signs that are generally exempt from compliance regulations include:

• Marketing and advertising material
• Temporary signage that will be displayed for less than seven days
• Directories
• Parking signs
• Building addresses
• Company name and logo signs

A common misconception is that ADA compliant signs are just signs with Braille print on them. However, ADA requirements are significantly more wide-reaching than simply the inclusion of Braille or raised characters. In addition, compliant signage is not only designed for the blind and visually impaired, but it also takes into consideration the needs of those with hearing impairments, mobility issues, cognitive disabilities, and psychiatric conditions. A sign design firm experienced in the complexities of ADA guidelines can walk clients through the process of creating a truly compliant sign.

What Are the Consequences of Non-Compliance?

Strict penalties are enforced on entities that do not abide by ADA regulations. In 2014, the Department of Justice increased the amount of money that an establishment would be fined for non-compliance. ADA.gov notes that “this adjustment increases the maximum civil penalty for a first violation under title III from $55,000 to $75,000; for a subsequent violation the new maximum is $150,000.”

While a large company may endure steep fines better than a small business, neither can afford the devastating effects non-compliance can have on a business’ reputation within the disabled community and among people with disabled loved ones.

What ADA Compliant Signage Solutions Does DesignElement of Raleigh Offer?

DesignElement of Raleigh is committed to providing clients with beautiful, functional sign packages. Just because a sign needs to be ADA compliant does not mean that it cannot also be artistic and attractive. ADA requirements touch many aspects of the design and production process, including the use of non-glare materials, the choice of typeface, the selection of color and size, the use of symbols, and the incorporation of tactile elements and Braille. However, with the expertise of the team of designers and project managers at DesignElement, a custom sign package will adhere precisely to ADA guidelines while also being elegant and staying within the bounds of the business’ brand identity.

If business owners have questions about installing ADA compliant signage, they can call DesignElement of Raleigh at (919) 851-2066. For more information, visit the DesignElement website at designelement-us.com/locations/raleigh-nc.

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source https://designelement-us.com/press-releases/raleigh-nc-sign-company-explains-the-importance-of-ada-compliant-signage/

Raleigh Sign Company Explains the Sign Creation Process

The team at DesignElement has a simple goal — to provide clients with a unique design, high-quality products, and excellent customer service. The Raleigh design firm develops the client’s idea into a powerful visual identity that is communicated effectively through interior and exterior signage, design services, and visual communication solutions.

Decades of experience in the communication and environmental design industry has taught the DesignElement staff the importance of a solid brand. DesignElement has worked with clients in diverse industries, including real estate development, retail, corporate, healthcare, and entertainment. Across the board, a well-designed and thoughtfully deployed brand attracts the attention of customers and inspires employees. Whether the venue is a trade show booth, a stadium, a corporate facility, or a restaurant, customers respond positively to a great brand.

DesignElement helps customers plan, design, and implement complete sign packages of any size and scope. With the help of the team of project managers, sign designers, production technicians, and sign installers, the client can create a successful sign project that draws repeat customers.

Planning Stage

DesignElement offers a small studio environment that encourages an active, face-to-face customer service experience. This arrangement enables the client’s project to receive the personal attention it deserves. Clients can be as hands-on as they would like throughout every step of the project.

In the first step of the ideation phase, the client provides the general requirements for the project, a floor plan or site map of the premises on which the signage will be installed, and branding guidelines, if available. Seasoned project managers will use this information to determine the extent of the signage needed to most effectively engage with customers. They will create a detailed list of all the necessary sign elements and decide on the ideal placement of signage or graphics based on the expected traffic flow.

Design Stage

An enduring brand is not just a graphic. A skilled graphic designer understands that a successful design must communicate clearly and trigger emotions that resonate with customers and that underpin the message the business is trying to convey. For these reasons, the design stage is one of the most vital stages of the overall project.

Subtle details shape the public’s perception of a product and business. From text to color to images, every aspect of a sign design is communicating ideas and emotions to customers. The design team’s job is to channel each element of the design towards creating a final product that connects with the client’s customer base in powerful, persistent ways.

An understanding of the psychology of shapes and colors is essential when developing a branding or signage program. Red hues impact the customer in a different way than blue or green hues do. Similarly, shapes represent different ideas and associations that can be very effective when used strategically.

DesignElement approaches the creative process with both practical and aesthetic concerns in mind. A beautiful sign may not clearly communicate important information, while a utilitarian sign might lack the artistry necessary to attract attention. Neither of these signs would be desirable because they do not fulfill their purpose. The key is to create a design that strikes the right balance between art and application.

In addition, DesignElement can produce signage that is in compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). Industry, government, and independent organization guidelines are rigid, but the team is able to develop an ADA signage package that is informational, attractive, and compliant. DesignElement is knowledgeable about all aspects of ADA compliant signage, including the pitfalls to avoid and what ADA standards apply to a particular business or organization.

Production Stage

The production team selects the material and fabrication techniques that will give the signs the optimal durability for the setting in which they will be used. Extensive knowledge of available materials, manufacturing processes, and code compliance enables DesignElement to take the project from concept to completion in the shortest possible time frame.

Installation Stage

Once the signage has been designed and produced, the pieces are installed according to precise specifications and according to current industry standards. DesignElement takes care of permit acquisition, construction, construction management, logistics, and even ongoing maintenance as needed. If the client needs additional signs after the end of the project, the team can quickly produce extra signage, and this service is covered under the company’s maintenance contract.

For more information about sign planning, design, and installation in Raleigh, NC, visit the DesignElement website at designelement-us.com/locations/raleigh-nc.The office can be reached by phone at (919) 851-2066.

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source https://designelement-us.com/press-releases/raleigh-sign-company-explains-the-sign-creation-process/

Raleigh Signage Company Provides Workplace Sign and Safety Solutions

DesignElement, a Raleigh architectural sign planning, and design firm, has stepped up to help local businesses overcome the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The company has reconfigured its sign-making equipment to be able to produce protective shields and similar personal protection equipment, as well as safety solutions to help businesses operate and reopen.

The company’s signage and workplace safety solutions include:

• Architectural Sign Planning and Design Consulting
• Social Distancing Floor Signs and Decals
• Wayfinding Signs and Decals
• Customer Safety and Awareness Signs
• Open for Business Signs
• Curbside Pickup Zone Signs
• Hand Sanitizer Kiosks and Stations
• Protective Sneeze Guards
• Customer Service Counter Protective Shields

Safety Signs and Workplace Solutions

DesignElement can produce many types of signs to help businesses prepare to reopen to the public. As a custom signage solutions company, DesignElement can tailor a sign package to a business’ specific needs and offers a fast turnaround time.

The team can produce social distancing floor decals, wayfinding signs and stickers, customer safety and awareness signs, open for business signs, sidewalk signs, curbside pickup zone signs, and hand sanitizer kiosks and stations. The hand sanitizer stations include custom printed backplates for additional brand awareness.

Protective Shields and Guards

Keeping customers and employees safe is a priority during the COVID-19 pandemic. DesignElement helps create solutions that not only protect people’s health but also promote a business’s brand identity. While the economic impact of COVID-19 may limit the marketing budget, businesses can utilize custom-branded personal protection equipment, such as sneeze guards and shields, to keep their services top of mind.

Social Distancing Decals, Wayfinding Signs, and Safety Policy Signs

One of the hardest safety measures to adapt to has been social distancing. People naturally want to be social and conversational, but it is vital to remind customers to maintain a six-foot distance. Floor decals help customers remember social distancing policies, and wayfinding signs direct traffic safely through a store. DesignElement can create signs that stand out with fun, educational facts to keep the clientele entertained while exercising proper distancing protocol. Posting a business’ safety policies is also beneficial for both customers and employees.

Open for Business Yard and A-Frame Signs

Yard signs and A-Frames are an excellent way to let the community know that a store is back in business. A solid design can allow room to briefly highlight operational changes, such as shortened hours of operation or the introduction of curbside pickup. DesignElement offers illuminated signage solutions for businesses that want to draw extra attention to their announcements.

Curbside Pickup and Delivery Available Signs

Pickup and delivery has proved to be an excellent way for stores to minimize contact with customers while still providing services. Raleigh businesses can advertise their pickup and delivery options with corrugated plastic signs and vinyl window decals that are easy-to-read. Signage also helps to clearly delineate curbside pickup zones and parking spots.

Free-Standing Sanitizer Kiosks and Stations

One of DesignElement’s more unique solutions is its free-standing sanitizer kiosks and stations. These tools are custom fabricated and are integrated with instructional and educational signage. While sanitizer kiosks are already on the market, their availability is dwindling. By providing this product locally, DesignElement enables businesses to bypass the time spent waiting for sellers to restock sold-out sanitizing kiosks and stations.

At DesignElement, the teams’ efforts are driven by a desire to meet the needs of the community during a time of great need. The company’s solutions are not one-size-fits-all services. Signage that works for a pizzeria may not work for a supermarket or a law office. DesignElement understands that customization is essential, especially during times of crisis. In everything the team does, they display ingenuity and attention to detail in order to produce products that are unique, beautifully designed, and effective. Whatever the new normal may be, DesignElement is completely prepared to equip local Raleigh businesses with the best products to protect employees and customers.

For more information about essential signage in Raleigh, NC, visit the DesignElement website at designelement-us.com.The team can be reached by phone at (919) 851-2066. The office is located at 972 Trinity Rd Ste 1, Raleigh, NC 27607 and is open on Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Appropriate social distancing and other safety measures are being observed, and curbside pickup and delivery are available.

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source https://designelement-us.com/press-releases/raleigh-signage-company-provides-workplace-sign-and-safety-solutions/