Catalog Sign Systems
The catalog route works well if you have a good franchisee and you find a design option that you like in their catalog. These systems can generally be less expensive on the front end unless you want custom logos/branding or special colors to match your finishes. But the biggest downside to these types of systems is that, once you have bought into that system, you are married to it. Catalog signage systems are typically proprietary so, as long as you have that system you will always be at their mercy for replacements (signs, inserts and parts), the cost of those pieces, and their lead times. The same holds true of the franchisee that sold the system to you… if they are responsive, it may not be a problem but if they are not, you can’t go to another franchisee as they have territorial agreements not to poach in other markets.
Custom Signage
The other option is custom signage. To most people when they hear the word “custom” they think that means more expensive or hard to replicate… which is very possible. If the design firm is inexperienced and specifies special materials or finishes, requires odd material thicknesses or inefficient sizes… it will drive up the cost of a project. An example of this would be a designer specifying an interior sign that has a 3/8” thick back panel…, you can get it, but it is not common, and it is more expensive. Another issue is odd dimensional sizes. Materials typically come in standard sizes (i.e. 4’ x 8’ sheets) so, if a design calls for odd sizes, it can limit the number of pieces you can be cut from a given sheet of material. A good example of this can be illustrated by the difference between an interior sign that is 6” x 8” vs on that is specified to be 7” x 9”… it may not seem to be much of a difference until you recognize that you can get 96 pieces out of a sheet at 6” x 8” vs 60 pieces for the 7” x 9” size. Depending on the total quantity of units needed and the cost of the material, it can substantially increase the cost of the project… for a size differential that no one would notice!
The Solution
Most of our clients would prefer to have a signage package that is tailored to their facility and fits their brand but tend to shy away because of the perceived cost. Because we are designers as well as manufacturers, we can guide you through this process by making recommendations that reduce the costs without necessarily compromising the design.
The team here at Fravert can provide complete turnkey services for all your interior signage needs, including planning, design, manufacturing, and installation. We can handle virtually any interior signage and wayfinding project, from a small medical or business office to a large multi-facility hospital complex. We believe that interior signage should enhance your corporate image, not detract from it. To accomplish that goal, we can assist you in designing a versatile interior signage system that is customized to your individual requirements, meets ADA specifications, and stays within your budget parameters.
If you do not have the expertise inhouse to manage a major signage project, or you simply need some assistance in getting it done quickly and efficiently, we would welcome the opportunity to show you the difference… after all,
Impressions matter. Let’s build one that lasts.
