How to Create Quality Signage for Meetings, Tradeshows and Conferences

Signs are an ideal way to make an impact at business events or to convey a message to the general public. In fact, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce found that one of the largest retailers in America discovered that approximately 17 percent of its customers were people who did not intend to stop there, but did so specifically because they saw a sign.

Signs say a lot about a business whether it is in a retail window or resting on an easel in a conference hall. They convey a message and create a visual statement about your company and you.

When you create signage for an event, whether it is a meeting, a tradeshow or conference, you are doing it for one purpose and one purpose only. It is important to keep that purpose in mind as you create your signage in addition to these three tips:

• There may not be a lot of room and the reader may not have a lot of time to read it, so be brief and clear about the message you need to send. Leave out extra words and fluff.
• Keep the wording active and simple so that everyone understands. Avoid jargon or technical words when possible.
• Be equally careful that you include everything that is important. Leaving off important details - like the room number where a certain event is being held - can cause confusion.

The type of signage you will use is likely to be based on the type of event, the message you need to send and your budget. However, the two most commonly used displays are banners and posters.

Banners

While many people might think of a banner as advertising you find on a website, in this case a banner is much like a flag because it is typically free floating and can be used when you want to draw attention to your event.

Indoor and outdoor banners in a variety of materials, including weather resistant vinyl for durability, can contain graphics, logos, product photos or whatever else you need to communicate.

While having an in-house marketing or art department can save you time and money in the design and even the production of your banner, there are a variety of outside sources available to help you create the look you want. Shop around with your local printers or larger retailers such as FedEx Office (previously FedEx Kinko's) to find out who can offer the best deal.

Posters

Posters can come in a variety of forms, from large movie posters to small informational signs. Obviously, your specific needs will dictate the best route for creating posters.

However, if your only goal is to communicate a simple message, such as the date, time and place of your meeting, you might find that it is just as effective to print this type of poster in-house using traditional computer software like Word or Publisher.

If, on the other hand, you need a 36" x 48" poster with a digital photo that requires lamination, you might find that you are better off utilizing an outside service. Remember to keep in mind the purpose of your sign.

Digital Signage

Signage doesn't have to be simple anymore. While most organizations utilize stationary signs to communicate meeting information, in today's high-tech world you may also want to give thought to the use of digital signs.

All you need is a flat screen and the right software from a company such as SmarterSign or Scala and you can mix video and real time information to provide viewers with personalized messages, informative presentations and updated schedules or information.

Remember, it's all about the message you want to send and the viewer you want to attract.