Helpful Hints Exterior Signs
key information or instructions that
The following are some general "Do's &
will hopefully reduce common errors
Don'ts guidelines that one can refer to
that are made when planning and
when developing a sign program.
programming an exterior sign program.
This is not intended to be a training
section of the guide, but to provide
Never use text smaller than 3" capital letter height when a sign is
General Guidelines
intended to be read from a moving car.
Text intended to be read by pedestrians should be a minimum of 1 1/2" capital
letter height.
Sign do require maintenance. Cleaning and waxing will extend the
life of a sign program.
Use text (words) which are familiar, easy to understand and comfortable
to the viewer.
Always use the same words throughout the sign program.
All sign messages need to be a minimum of 24" above grade.
When selecting a background color for the signs, seek a
complementary color to the buildings on campus.
If overhead signs are used, make sure they have adequate clearance
for trucks. Adequate clearance can be interpreted to be 15'-0".
Type of Sign to Use
Always consider the landscaping surrounding a sign when determining a
sign's size. It is important that shrubs and other plants do not hide or obscure
the sign.
Stacking bar signs, if possible, should always have a blank bar between two
different sets of directional information.
Lettering and sign panel size should be appropriate for the distance and
speed at which a sign is viewed.
Size of Sign to Use
Signs intended for a moving vehicle need to be larger and require larger text
than a sign intended for a pedestrians.
Consideration should be given to the use of a facility (i.e.. whether a
department or building offers night time services) when determining if a sign
should be illuminated or not.
Message Content
Keep sign messages brief.
Unnecessary information on signs will confuse the viewer.
Typically, all signs, with the exception of directional signs, should convey no
more than one concept or thought.
Use text (words) that can be quickly read by the viewer. And use the
same words throughout the sign program.
On directional and informational signs only provide information necessary to
make a decision at that particular location.
Whenever possible, messages should be presented using positive
information.
02/2005
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