First impressions count, in business as in life and nothing says more about your “brand” than the signage you choose to advertise yourself. The right graphical element can bring you global recognition-think McDonald’s Golden Arches and Nike’s Swoosh-as well as convey an impression of solidity, credibility and professionalism.

Of course, not everyone needs to conquer the world of footwear or fast food, but whether you’re selling a product, a service or even yourself, the right signage will bring people to your door.

Choosing the best signage

Making the right statement can be as simple as an elegant brass plaque through to a witty sandwich board-it’s all about getting people noticing your brand and talking about it, especially in this age of social media when businesses can quite literally live or die with a keystroke.

The first step is to determine which is the best medium for you-modern technology has made it possible to turn just about any material into signage. Businesses can design signs around the material, using engraved metal or printed glass to suit the setting.

Laser-cut or engraved metals can give the impression of a 3D element in a 2D format creating maximum impact within a small footprint. Metals also patina with age giving them a sense of permanence, which, by association, can be extended to your brand, creating the impression of longevity.

Acrylic signage

Cast acrylics allow for crafting 3D signage-in any colour you want-that can also incorporate lighting for 24/7 impact. Another bonus is that it is a lightweight product, making it easily mountable on walls or suspended from the ceiling or an external overhang.

Acrylic wallcoverings, either murals or lettering, are another way of creating an impact in a small space or an area with a limited footprint. Customisable coverings mean you can incorporate a logo or graphic design that you can then replicate on other media for a complete brand campaign.

For the latest in technology, flatbed printers are now available that can print on almost any rigid material, meaning you can create full-colour signage on wood, glass, metal, acrylics and any number of veneers at sizes up to 2m2 and even larger.