IN THIS POST
Business signs do lots of things!
In the dynamic landscape of modern business, effective communication is the backbone of success.
One powerful tool that stands out in this regard is business signs.
They show people where your business is and help them recognize your brand.
The global sign market was expected to grow from $116.07 billion in 2022 to $123.54 billion in 2023 at a CAGR of 6.4%. The size of the sign market is expected to grow to $152.87 billion in 2027 at a CAGR of 5.5%.
Picking the right sign is like picking the right home where you plan on staying for years.
Well, now you understand how important they can be!
You have got to think about what matches your business and what people will remember.
That being said, you might wonder about stuff like what materials to use, whether to go old-school or high-tech, and if outdoor signs matter.
We made a list of different signs to help you decide. It covers the most common types.
Let’s dive into these signs!
Signs have changed a lot over time because of the materials used. We went from paper and cardboard to digital screens.
Different materials are now used for business signs in retail and other industries.
So, let’s start with the basic signs based on material.
Static Signs (Material Based)
1. Vinyl – Cost-Effective and Versatile
Vinyl is a preferred material type for static business signs owing to the versatility and durability that it offers.
It can be used for a variety of sign types, including banners and decals.
Since it is tough and has a durable nature, it can be used be used in outdoor signs and withstand any weather condition.
Since they carry a dynamic presence, creating an eye-catching design is easy with them.
Vinyl is also easy to attach to different surfaces, providing a hassle-free process for creating and installing business signs.
2. Wooden – Classic Charm and Customization
Wooden signs offer businesses a myriad of benefits and versatile applications.
Their timeless charm and authenticity make them stand out, conveying a sense of tradition and reliability.
Carved, engraved, or painted, wooden signs provide a customizable canvas, allowing businesses to showcase their unique identity.
Whether used for storefronts, directional markers, or promotional displays, wooden signs capture attention with their distinctive visual appeal.
3. Acrylic – Modern Simplicity and Transparency
Acrylic business signs offer a range of advantages and versatile applications for companies. Their sleek and modern appearance instantly enhances the professional image of a business.
The material’s transparency allows for creative design options, including 3D lettering and vibrant colors.
Their adaptability suits various settings, from storefronts and office interiors to trade show displays.
4. Metal – Timeless Elegance and Durability
Metal business signs offer a host of benefits and practical applications for companies.
Renowned for their durability, metal signs withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring longevity and a reliable presence.
Metal signage is often employed for storefronts, corporate offices, and industrial settings, providing a polished and lasting impression.
5. Correx – Economical and Sturdy
One of the key advantages is affordability, making Correx an economical choice for businesses, especially those on a budget.
These signs are frequently employed for temporary purposes such as events, promotions, and construction sites due to their quick setup and easy removal.
Beyond its economic advantages, Correx is environmentally friendly and recyclable, making it a practical and sustainable choice for businesses seeking eco-conscious signage solutions.
6. Plastic/ PVC – Durable and Cost-effective
PVC signs are resilient to weather conditions, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
One of the key benefits is cost-effectiveness. PVC signs provide an affordable signage solution without compromising on durability.
Common uses include storefront signage, informational signs, and promotional displays.
7. Corrugated Plastic (Coroplast) – Affordable and Lightweight
Corrugated plastic, often referred to as Coroplast, offers numerous benefits and versatile applications as a material for business signs.
One of the key advantages is its weather resistance, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. This durability ensures that the signage remains intact in various environmental conditions.
Due to its affordability, corrugated plastic is often used for short-term advertising, events, and promotions.
8. Glass – Elegant and visually striking
Glass business signs help you create signs that reflect sophistication and elegance.
They also convey a sense of professionalism and style with them.
Glass signs can be customized with various colors, fonts, and designs, providing a unique and personalized touch.
Whether utilized for office branding, high-end retail displays, or as a focal point in architectural design, glass signs are versatile enough to carry any business sign.
1. Axe Signs – Custom Signs, Wraps, & Graphics Design | Production | Installation
Axe Signs & Wayfinding specializes in crafting personalized sign solutions for businesses throughout the extended Tampa region. Their expertise lies in designing compelling commercial signage that effectively captures attention, ensuring your brand and business stand out.
2. Signazon – Create & Order Custom Signs in Minutes
Signazon ensures your business thrives by providing the necessary signs. They present a diverse selection of pre-designed indoor and outdoor sign templates, catering to various sign options that effectively capture customer attention. This includes personalized banners, custom signs, business signs, and more.
3. Build A Sign – Custom Signs, Banners, Flags
Since 2005, Build A Sign has delivered signs to countless customers throughout the United States. Their mission is to empower individuals and businesses, enabling them to share their messages and connect with those who are most important to them.
Digital signage refers to electronic displays, often using technologies like LED or LCD, to show information, advertisements, or messages in a dynamic and customizable manner.
The global digital signage market is projected to reach USD 45.5 billion by 2031 , growing with a CAGR of 7.20% during the forecast period (2023-2031).
9. LED Displays:
The versatility of LED Displays spans various industries, from retail and hospitality to transportation, education and much more.
LED’s sharp image quality, energy efficiency, and flexibility enable businesses to create eye-catching displays that grab attention and enhance engagement.
Whether it’s promoting products, providing information, or adding a modern touch to spaces, LED displays redefine signage, offering a powerful and contemporary platform for effective communication in today’s tech-driven world.
10. LCD Based Screens:
LCD screens are known for their high resolution, clarity, and energy efficiency.
From retail and corporate spaces to public venues, these screens offer a versatile platform for engaging communication.
LCD-based digital signage provides businesses with a sleek and modern way to convey messages, enhance branding, and captivate audiences in today’s visually oriented and technology-driven landscape.
11. Projection Screens:
Projection-based digital signs are often employed in various settings, such as retail, events, and educational institutions.
They offer flexibility in terms of size and placement, allowing for large-scale displays in different environments.
With advancements in projection technology, these screens can deliver high-quality visuals, making them a compelling choice for businesses seeking creative and impactful ways to communicate messages and capture the attention of their audience.
12. E-paper Displays:
E-paper’s reflective technology mimics traditional paper, providing excellent readability even in direct sunlight, a feat unmatched by traditional screens.
These displays are flexible and lightweight, allowing for innovative designs and easy integration into various applications, from e-books to smart signage.
Additionally, e-paper’s static nature requires power only during content updates, contributing to energy efficiency.
13. Transparent Displays:
Transparent displays blend digital content seamlessly with the surroundings, grabbing attention with their see-through design. These screens, using transparent LCD or OLED tech, let you view the content while seeing what’s behind them.
Though not as bright as regular displays, they’re handy in retail. Picture storefront windows displaying both digital promos and products inside, creating an eye-catching mix.
Beyond retail, transparent screens work well in places like museums and airports. They offer an immersive way to share info without blocking the view.
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2. Scala – Digital Signage | Full Solution Signage Provider
Scala creating strategic partnerships to bring digital display, sensor, mobile and emerging technology to market, at scale.
3. Coates Group – Customer Experiences Powered by Digital Solutions
Coates Group deliver end-to-end digital merchandising solutions that drive engaging customer journeys and business ROI for companies worldwide
Indoor signages for business signs play a pivotal role in creating a welcoming and informative atmosphere within commercial spaces.
14. Wayfinding Signs:
Wayfinding signs play a crucial role in guiding individuals through various spaces, offering directions and information about key locations such as exits, restrooms, and amenities.
These signs are indispensable in retail stores, corporate premises, healthcare facilities, educational centers spread across vast areas or any business that is employing a huge space for its business.
15. Directory Signs
Offer a thorough building layout overview, pinpointing key areas for easy navigation. Common building directories include:
16. Conventional (Static) Directories
Classic directories use simple printed materials on walls, with fonts, colors, and symbols chosen thoughtfully for timeless and efficient navigation.
They not only serve a practical function but also contribute to a vintage yet impactful atmosphere.
17. Interactive Digital Directories
On LCD or LED monitors, these directories shift from traditional prints.
They display office names, multimedia content, announcements, and real-time updates, operated through advanced software for prompt adjustments.
18. Directional Signs
Efficiently guide visitors in retail, airports, and more.
Whether on walls, floors, or as digital displays, these signs offer diverse design options for a user-friendly experience.
19. Interactive Wayfinding Kiosks
Merging digital tech with tangible signs, these kiosks help people find their way by allowing users to input their destination for interactive maps, zooming, and clicking for directions.
20. 3D Wayfinding Signs
Imagine a helpful map you can spin on a touchscreen for quick navigation.
3D signs make it easier and quicker to figure out your destination, and advanced tech like Augmented Reality adds a virtual guide to your digital journey.
Informational signage conveys important information, instructions, or policies within a facility, ensuring clarity for visitors and occupants.
With the TV built to handle the info for these use cases and a smartly built CMS solution, these signs, as their names suggest, are informational and helpful.
Here are few informational signages that are commonly used:
21. Electronic (Digital) Announcement Board:
A digital notice board uses sleek screens for quick updates and info changes. Think of it as a high-tech bulletin board—cool and super handy.
You can add simple messages, well-organized PDFs, pictures, videos, and even content from Google Slides.
22. Fun Info Screens:
Using digital screens that could be any normal smart TV using digital signage software, fun info screens give out interesting facts, entertain visitors, and show off cool messages that make a place look great.
You often see these screens in waiting areas or lounges where people might get a bit bored from waiting too long.
23. Online Shopping Display
Source: Yourstory
Imagine a digital catalog like an online shopping world where customers can check out products, their prices, and all the details in a fun and interactive way.
On special screens, stores can show off pictures of their products, share details, prices, models, and even demonstrate how they work.
These digital catalogs can be like slideshows or lists that customers can play with and explore.
24. Digital Menu Boards
Ever seen a menu on a screen at a restaurant or café? That’s a digital menu board!
It’s like a regular menu but cooler and easier to change because it’s all on a computer.
With an easy-to-use digital menu boards solution, restaurant people can quickly update prices and even have different menus for different times of the day.
Some of them also offer in-built menu board editors using which menus can be easily created and managed within minutes.
The best part is they can be easily managed from anywhere with a cloud-based solution.
25. Safety & Security Tips
These are signs that tell you important safety stuff, like what to do in emergencies or how to leave the place safely.
You’ll see them in big buildings, hospitals, and places where they need to let visitors know about possible dangers.
They use signs to show different warnings, from general ones to more specific ones like chemicals or high voltage.
Some signs stay still, and some are on screens that can change. Either way, it’s all about keeping everyone safe!
26. Travel Info Screen
Source: Delta Displays
Ever been in a big place like an airport or train station and seen a screen that tells you when your ride is coming, which platform to go to, and other important stuff? That’s a Travel Info Screen!
They use these in places like airports, train stations, subways, and bus stops.
These screens show you live updates on when your ride will be there, which gate to go to, and even if there are any changes.
27. Table-Top Signs
Ever seen little signs on tables or counters in restaurants? Those are table-top signs!
They tell you cool stuff like today’s special food, discounts, or how to use QR codes for menus.
In the old days, they were paper tents, but now, some places use small screens on each table. These screens show the special menu, current deals, and more.
Some signs even have three sides to show different things.
28. Dynamic Notice Boards
Imagine big screens that change messages, showing helpful things like event schedules or important news.
They’re not expensive and are good for the environment. You can spot them easily from a distance.
A while ago, you’d find them everywhere – in train stations, stock markets, schools, and churches.
29. Storefront Showcases
Ever walked by a store and seen the cool stuff they have in the windows? Those are window displays!
They show off special products, sales, or things for the season to grab your attention as you walk by.
The way a store sets up their windows is super important for getting people interested.
A lot of retail stores these days have high-tech windows with digital screens showing off all the cool stuff they have inside!
30. Store Banners and Flags
Stores use big signs called banners and flags to tell everyone about sales, special deals, or fun events.
These signs are not like regular TV screens; they are sleek and look cooler. If there’s not much space, you can put them at different angles.
The best part is they can be moved around easily!
You’ll see these signs in different important spots, showing ads, saying hi to guests, or giving info about events.
31. Checkout Zone Displays
Source: sharpnecdisplays
Ever noticed those cool stands near the cash register or in busy spots in a store?
They’re put there on purpose to make you think about buying something at the last minute.
They are a great tool for impulse purchases, promotions, impulse purchases, help-built brand awareness and in queue distraction as well.
32. Smart Help Stations (Digital Kiosk)
Source: w-co.co.uk
In contemporary times, one can easily encounter advanced self-service machines, widely dispersed in locations such as stores and hotels.
These machines incorporate sophisticated functionalities to enhance user convenience.
For instance, they employ cutting-edge technologies like QR code scanning, fingerprint recognition, digital payment processing, and barcode scanning.
33. Digital Signage POS
Digital Signage POS (Point of Sale) involves the use of digital displays and visual content at the checkout or transaction points within a business.
These displays, which can include digital menu boards, interactive kiosks, or promotional screens, are strategically placed to engage customers during the purchasing process.
By presenting dynamic and real-time information such as product details, promotions, and pricing.
The flexibility of digital signage allows businesses to quickly update content, ensuring that the messaging remains relevant and impactful in the fast-paced retail environment.
34. Giant Digital TV Screens wall
Combine multiple screens, and you create a massive TV wall, like those impressive giant video walls that always catch your eye.
You surely must have noticed those giant video walls that totally captivate you every time you see them.
Whether it’s vibrant visuals, dynamic videos, or stunning images, these giant screens create an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression.
35. QR Codes for conversions
Encouraging action from interested folks is key in turning them into shoppers. QR codes on digital screens are a smart way to do this.
QR codes, when scanned, can take you to a special website. This is a cool thing about digital signs compared to regular ones—they bring together the online and offline worlds for businesses.
In stores, these signs with QR codes can offer online coupons or host fun contests, making shopping more enjoyable!
Outdoor signs play a vital role in grabbing attention, directing visitors, and building a robust brand presence. Here are different types of outdoor signs commonly utilized.
36. Storefront Signs
Storefront signs are more than just window displays.
By strategically placing an eye-catching sign at the entrance or slightly farther from the store, businesses can effectively highlight their newest products, special offers, and discounts.
This proactive approach captures the attention of passersby, drawing them in before they consider checking out other nearby stores.
37. Drive thru Menu Boards
Drive thru menu boards for takeaway are your go-to when you’re on the move.
These boards, often illuminated, showcase a variety of menu items with clear visuals and enticing descriptions.
Designed for quick decision-making, they streamline the ordering process for those in a hurry. From crispy fries to refreshing drinks, drive-thru menu boards present a comprehensive menu right at your car window.
The combination of vibrant graphics and concise text ensures a quick and easy ordering experience.
38. Channel Letters Sign
Channel letter signs are a popular choice for outdoor signage.
These signs consist of individual 3D letters, often illuminated, and are commonly used to display business names on storefronts or building exteriors.
The letters can be crafted from various materials, and the illumination adds visibility, making them effective for attracting attention, especially during the evening or in low-light conditions.
Channel letter signs offer a sleek and professional appearance, contributing to a distinctive and recognizable brand image for businesses.
39. Tower Signs (Pylons)
Tower signs serve as impactful outdoor signage for businesses.
These signs are tall structures that can be seen from a distance, making them highly effective for attracting attention and increasing visibility.
Typically mounted on poles or towers, they stand tall and prominently display business names, logos, or other essential information.
40. Giant Billboards
Consider those huge signs along the highway or busy streets. Those are billboards!
They’re like outdoor posters aiming to grab everyone’s attention and convey messages.
Whether the classic type or the modern digital ones, these large signs remain crucial for informing a large audience.
41. Monuments
Picture signs low on the ground, crafted from durable materials like stone or brick. They’re called ground signs, offering a classy and lasting vibe.
Spotted on a concrete wall or a small hill outside, these big signs often guide people to a building even from afar.
Common at school and church entrances, they’re now going digital and gaining popularity.
42. Mobile Ads
Ever seen vehicles with cool product launch pics or promotional messages all over them? Those are mobile ads!
They use stickers, signs on doors, frosty designs on windows, magnets, and even posters to turn regular vehicles into rolling ads.
These mobile signs are like moving billboards, taking messages wherever they go.
Some even have signs inside that go beyond ads, showing bus stops, current location, videos, and live weather updates for an engaging experience on the move.
In conclusion, choosing the right business sign is crucial for making a lasting impression. From classic storefront signs to modern digital displays, each type serves a unique purpose.
The key is to align your signage with your brand identity and the atmosphere you want to create.
With DotSignage, you can convert your TV screen into a business sign and display all your promotional content with ease from anywhere.
Reach out at info@dotsignage.com or schedule a quick demo with us to know more about how our intuitive and user-friendly digital signage solution can help you manage content on your TV screens with ease or try our 7 day free trial to explore more.
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