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/