Southern California Sign Blog

Sign Banners Are Powerful And Economical For Your Business!

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Mon, Apr 30, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

Sign Banners Are Powerful And Economical For Your Business!

CUSTOM BANNERS...Get the information you need!

Banners & Hanging Systems from The Sign Studio

Banners are a powerful, yet economical, way to bring attention to your business, project or special event. You can reach thousands of viewers with banners made in our state-of-the-art facility. Whether you need a single banner or a thousand, we can produce your order. We have no size or quantity restrictions. We can fabricate your banners utilizing one or more of the following production methods.

• Digital Printing
• Flat Bed Printing
• Computer Cut Vinyl Lettering and Graphics

Material Selection

We carry an extensive inventory of substrates and will assist you in choosing the most suitable material for your project.

Vinyl
Nylon, Cotton, Satin, Canvas & Polyester
Mesh
Custom Fabrics

Finish Selection

Choose from a variety of custom finishes:
Hemming
Webbing
Pole Pockets
Rope Ties
Heading Tape
Velcro
Grommets
D-Rings
And More

Hanging Systems & Hardware

We offer a wide selection of hanging systems and hardware for all of your display needs. Follow this link for more information. http://www.thesignstudioonline.com/exhibitors-handbook-/

Banner StandsOur premiere indoor/outdoor banner stands are portable, lightweight, and available with a special carrying case. The premiere stands are adjustable up to 10' wide and 10' high.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please give us a call at The Sign Studio (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at info@signstudiola.com

NEED QUOTE

Banner Stands

Topics: Custom Banners, Banners, Vinyl Banner Signs

Looking For Decals? Any Size and Any Kind of Decals........you need!

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Fri, Apr 27, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

Looking For Decals?  Any Size and Any Kind of Decals..........you need!

CUSTOM DECALS & LABELS

Put your logo out there with easy-to-distribute labels and decals, perfect to use on packaging, company apparel, vehicles and many other surfaces.

The Sign Studio's cutting-edge technology enables us to recreate just about anything, including logos, landscapes and even your own children in virtually any shape, size, or quantity you desire. Using a variety of materials, including high-grade vinyl, our products stand the test of time. Our custom labels and decals look beautiful when applied correctly, and our wall murals and wall graphics actually look more like professionally painted artwork than a sticker or decal. They can hold up beautifully for years under normal traffic without significant fading, bleeding, peeling or cracking.

Regardless of your decal or label needs, we have a solution for you. Quick turnaround times, RUSH service, short and long runs, and great prices are available!

Labels

We have every imaginable type of custom label, including packaging labels, tamper evident labels, shipping labels, asset labels, domed labels, foil labels, embossed labels, short-run custom labels, labels on rolls, sheeted labels, consecutive numbered labels, health & beauty labels, food & packaging labels, custom wine labels, promotional labels and more!

Decals

Our interior design graphic decals are a great way to add stylish design accents to your office, store, or facility walls and flooring. These custom decals are made from re-positional vinyl, making them easy to remove at any time for a different look. We have a variety of highly durable, custom contouring, digital decals in many different sizes and styles, including auto dealer decals, domed decals, consecutive numbered decals, parking permits, hard hat decals, short-run decals, static cling decals, tamper evident decals, window decals, process color decals and more!

• Domed Decals
• Floor Graphics
• Labels & Inventory ID
• Name Badges
• Parking Permits • Vinyl Graphics
• Vinyl Lettering
• Wall Graphics
• Wall Murals

If you have any questions or need assistance with anything, please give us a call at The Sign Studio (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at info@signstudiola.com.

 

 

Decals and Labels

Topics: Floor Decals, Custom Decals, Decals

Trade Show Season Time Again? Do You Need Trade Show Signage?

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Thu, Apr 26, 2012 @ 18:04 PM

Trade Show Season Time Again?  Do You Need Trade Show Signage?

TRADE SHOW DISPLAYS

Our trade show display products get your company noticed and give you the critical edge over your competition.

Instead of blending in to a sea of booths, our trade show displays and signage help you stick out from the crowd. You can use our custom-designed indoor trade show displays to make the most professional looking exhibit you can find, at any price.

Drive more traffic to your trade show space or POP displays with one of our powerful, custom-designed display solutions. Each of our full-color displays is designed for maximum visibility, flexibility, and portability. Special lamination is applied to your booth or display so graphics can be rolled up for easy transport. and will still always hang flat.

We are experts in the creation of trade show exhibits, displays and booth visuals.

Our Trade Show Exhibit Rental Option

A trade show display or exhibit rental can be a convenient alternative to purchasing a trade show exhibit. It allows you the impact of having a customized trade show display and flexibility of not having to commit to a specific format. It is a great idea if you are interested in testing different sizes, or if you are not sure that a pop-up display is right for you.

Full-color, Digitally Printed Trade Show Graphics

Please call to find out just how affordable it is to have us create the show-stopping graphics for your trade show banner stand, counter, booth or exhibit displays. We have the most affordable trade show graphics available at the highest quality, with resolution up to 1200 dpi, including:

• A-Frame
• Easels
• Fabric Banners
• Feather Banners
• Flags
• Floor Graphics
• Freestanding Frames • Plastic Signs
• POP Display
• Retractable Banners
• Trade Show Booths
• Vinyl Banners
• Vinyl Lettering and Graphics

For more ideas, please see our Tradeshow Catalog.

If you have any questions or need assistance with anything, please give us a call at The Sign Studio (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at info@signstudiola.com.

NEED QUOTE

Tradeshow Signage, Retractable graphic

Topics: Tradeshow Signage, Trade Show Ideas and Displays, Sign Booth Advertising

Are You Looking For Outdoor Sign Ideas?

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Wed, Apr 25, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

Are You Looking For Outdoor Sign Ideas?

Outdoor Solutions

Get perfect outdoor sign solutions produced with high-quality processes and materials by The Sign Studio experts based in Burbank/Los Angeles, CA. We specialize and serve the Los Angeles and Orange County, CA and surrounding areas.

At The Sign Studio, our outdoor signs are designed with attention to detail, state-of-the-art technology and high-impact visuals. We provide quality, commercial electrical and non-electrical outdoor signage in a cost-effective and timely manner, at sign prices that are always competitive. Most of all, we guarantee you will be excited about the finished product.

We offer permanent and temporary outdoor signs for various types of applications such as directional and informational signs, vehicle wraps and advertising, illuminated signs and much more. There are numerous benefits of a branded and prominently displayed exterior sign including:

• The large format digital printing technology we employ allows for extended creativity and provides bold, bright colors and dramatic images viewable from far away.

• The current imaging technology provides stunning displays that were not possible by hand-painting, and new display techniques allow for even greater creativity that cannot be executed in other media.

• Outdoor has a naturally large audience. Outdoor displays grab people's attention while they drive or walk.

• Efficiency is paramount in outdoor advertising. Due to its relatively low cost and extremely high audience, the cost per thousand impressions is substantially lower than radio, TV, and print media.

• Outdoor advertising is an excellent way to remind the audience of your product and strengthen brand awareness. Outdoor is the link between in-home advertising and the point of purchase.

At The Sign Studio, we offer numerous types of outdoor signs, including but not limited to:

• 3-D Letters
• Directional Signs
• Illuminated Insert Signs
• Lawn Signs
• Lighted Business Signs
• Magnetic Signs
• Monument Signs

If you have any questions or need assistance with anything, please give us a call at The Sign Studio (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at info@signstudiola.com.


Custom Signage Image

 

 

Topics: Sign Ideas, Electrical and Commercial Signs, Exterior and Outdoor Signs

Yard Signs, Sidewalk Signs and Coroplast Signs - Marketing Ideas!

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Tue, Apr 24, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

Yard Signs, Sidewalk Signs and Coroplast Signs - Marketing Ideas!

Yard & Sidewalk Signs
Outdoor advertising is an excellent way to remind the audience of your product and strengthen brand awareness. Outdoor is the link between in-home advertising and the point of purchase. Yard signs are attractive and colorful, and serve as the ideal visual solution for advertising all types of sales, events, openings and much more.

Yard signs allow you to advertise your work to larger outdoor audiences by, for instance, placing a sign at an unfinished construction site, or a visual progress "log" at a place where project development work is still ongoing. As additional advertising for your business, yard signs also allow you to, for example, ‘sign your name' to a particular service you are performing as a contractor at a given client site.

In the real estate industry, curbside yard signs help in promoting the attributes of properties given out for rent, or being put on the market for purchase. You can make use of small directional yard signs that easily point the way to new commercial and residential developments.

Cost-effective and informative, outdoor yard signs are a great way to get information to your potential customers quickly, and to establish a company identity through consistent use of your logo, "company colors" and other design elements. Yard signs are available in all shapes and sizes to fit your specific requirements.

• A-Frames
• Directional Signage
• Event Signage
• Feather Banners
• Flags
• Golf Tournament Signs
• Metal Signs
• Plastic Signs
• Real Estate Signs

If you have any questions or need further information, please give us a call at THE SIGN STUDIO (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at info@signstudiola.com.

NEED QUOTE

Yard and Sidewalk Signs

Topics: Sidewalk and Marketing Signs, Yard Signs, Coroplast Signs

How Effective Signs, Posters and Banners Can Be For You!

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Mon, Apr 23, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

How Effective Signs, Posters and Banners Can Be For You!

Signs, Posters and Banners

At The Sign Studio, we can help you design and print the perfect indoor or outdoor signs, posters, banners, charts, or oversized photos to grab your audience's attention and communicate your message loud and clear. Large, eye-catching signs, posters, banners and displays appeal to customers and deliver your message more effectively.

Signs, Posters and Banners Are Used Everywhere and By Everyone
• Retail/restaurant
• Corporations
• Community groups
• Educational institutions
• Political organizations
• Lawyers
• Dentists
• Real estate agents
• And more!

Why Use Signs, Posters, and Banners?
Signs, posters and banners can help you build brand awareness and brand loyalty, generate leads and retain customers. Whether you're a retail store, small business, or corporate marketing, training or human resources department, we can help you with sales promotions, window and store signs, presentation support, or trade show and event marketing.

Like everything we do at The Sign Studio, we use the latest equipment for the sharpest resolution in black and white or color to create the greatest impact, giving you the greatest return on your investment. To customize your message, you can choose from an almost endless selection of sizes, and print on paper, cloth, vinyl, canvas, or any number of other materials. We even laminate, mount, add grommets or help you with any other type of hanging or assembly.

Have a big idea, or need us to help you with one? It's easy to make a big impression with signs, posters and banners by The Sign Studio!

If you have any further questions or need any help, please give us a call at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at info@signstudiola.com.

NEED QUOTE


Custom Signage Image

Topics: Posters. Banners, Marketing Ideas, Signs

Are You Looking For Coroplast Signs Or Yard Signs To Advertise With?

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Fri, Apr 20, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

Are You Looking For Coroplast Signs Or Yard Signs To Advertise With?

Yard Signs

Use yard and site signs to draw potential customers to your properties and let passersby know who is working on site. From small identification signs to large leasing signs, yard and site signs attract attention and generate interest in your properties and services. Effective and affordable, yard and site signs get your message out.

Yard Signs
Put your name and company logo in front of prospective customers with impressive yard signs. Available from THE SIGN STUDIO in a range of custom and standard shapes and sizes, yard signs point the way to new real estate developments, promote events and specials, and identify the type of work being done on a property. Whatever your objective, professional yard signs provide the visibility you need to deliver your message quickly and affordably.

Yard signs help you:
• Offer properties or products for sale or lease.
• Provide directions.
• Promote a candidate or campaign.
• "Sign your name" on a project.

If you have any questions or need any further information, please call The Sign Studio at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at info@signstudiola.com.

Coroplast Yard Signs

Topics: Cheap and Economical Signs, Yard Signs, Coroplast Signs

Site Signs Are Great And Economic For Your Marketing Plan

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Thu, Apr 19, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

Site Signs Are Great And Economic For Your Marketing Plan

Site Signs are ideal for many uses!

Use yard and site signs to draw potential customers to your properties and let passersby know who is working on the site. From small identification signs to large leasing signs, yard and site signs attract attention and generate interest in your properties and services. Effective and affordable, yard and site signs get your message out.

Site Signs
Generate awareness and create interest for your properties with on-site signs. Ideal for construction sites or commercial businesses, large site signs colorfully convey your message and provide availability information so your prospective tenants or purchasers have all the information they need.
Site signs help you:

• Announce building projects.
• Identify your business.
• Show off your property before or after construction.
• Sell or lease space.
• Direct customers to your sales office.
• Show prospects what the end result will look like.

If you have any questions or need further information, please call The Sign Studio at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at info@signstudiola.com.

NEED QUOTE


Site Signs


 

Topics: Site Signs, Marketing Signs, Outside Signs

Electrical Signs - Illuminated Signs in a Wide Range of Options

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Wed, Apr 18, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

LLUMINATED Backlit Displays - Electrical Signs

Make a bright and colorful impression with illuminated signs. THE SIGN STUDIO offers a wide range of options to fit your needs. From sign cabinets and channel letters to custom backlit signage and digital LED displays, we have everything you need to increase your visibility and attract customers, day or night.

Backlit Displays
Put your message in the best light with backlit displays. THE SIGN STUDIO'S backlit displays make your advertising and informational messages readable in any setting and any lighting. Backlit display signs are made using a variety of colors and lighting techniques to creatively display your logo and message-for signs that get attention day and night.

Get THE SIGN STUDIO'S backlit displays with a variety of options:
• Wall-mount
• Recessed
• Double-sided
• Convex face
• Slip profile
• Outdoor

If you have any questions or need further information, please give us a call at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at info@signstudiola.com.

NEED QUOTE
Illuminated Back-lit Displays

Topics: Electrical Signs, Backlit Display Signs, Illuminated Signs

How Important And The Value of Your Sign Is...........Sign Design

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Tue, Apr 17, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

Understanding the Value of Signage

There is an old axiom that the 3 keys to successfully selecting real estate are "location, location and
location". The 3 keys that guide the successful selection and development of commercial properties are
Visibility, Accessibility and Parking.

An effective on-premise sign is a critical component of visibility, and the sign should receive the same
careful attention as these other components. Without a properly designed and placed on-premise
business sign, a commercial site cannot function at its full economic potential.

This section presents information about:
- understanding the value of signage
- determining what an effective sign will mean for your business' success
- working with and possibly correcting problems with existing signage, and
- using signage to change customer behaviors.

The Functions of the On-Premise Sign
An effective on-premise sign is a critical component of visibility, and the sign should receive the same
careful attention as these other components.

1. It develops a memory for a location and the products or services available at the location.
2. It reinforces a memory and extends recall of other advertising efforts.
3. It attracts new customers by prompting first-time or impulse visits or purchases.
4. It modifies customary purchase decisions or habits. Changeable copy and temporary window
signs are especially effective in encouraging variation from accustomed consumption patterns. (For
more about modifying customary purchase habits, see the section that follows.)

Branding a Site
One measure of how effective or valuable an on-premise sign is to its site is demonstrated by how well it
helps to brand the site. A sign "brands" a location, just as a product label brands the product. If an
attractive image is not communicated by the business' sign, the business will rarely convey its true
message, or get the clientele it seeks.

Every site development and sign program strategy will benefit if the on-premise sign is made the focal
point of the site. If a site is "signcentric", it means that the sign catches the customer's attention and leads
him to the target business. A measurable positive effect on gross revenues should immediately result from

Developing and Measuring Readership
How do you know if your sign is (or is not) branding your site for future reference by potential customers?
You determine readership.

Readership advertising effectiveness tests whether a message is effectively speaking to the intended
audience. Two of the most commonly used research techniques are the recognition and recall tests
discussed above. Rating services conduct the tests and tabulate the results for all major-media
advertisers (i.e., television and newspaper advertisers rely on Nielsen Ratings Services). Small business
owners not engaged in franchised or chain business operations, however, usually do not have access to
national rating service readership tabulations; these independent small business owners may require the
services of a local market researcher to obtain readership measures. Often, on-premise sign companies
and trade associations will assist in compiling data.

Why do you want to measure readership? Without knowing the effectiveness of your signage, you
won't know how well you are doing, or what you might want to change. For your greatest success - with a
sign and therefore with your business - measuring readership is a diagnostic tool so you can fix whatever
is not working, and increase what is working.

The importance of signage to mobile consumers is underlined by the fact that many are in a hurry. By way of example, Burger King Corporation conducted a survey over several weeks. The survey results were part of evidence submitted in a legal action brought by Burger King (among others) against Agoura Hills, California, to prevent the removal of its freeway-oriented, high rise on-premise sign as required under a new sign code. The Burger King sign was visible to the Ventura Freeway; the building was not.
Surveys were conducted at Quick Service Food (QSF), family and atmosphere restaurants. The
participants were asked how they first became aware of the restaurant. Here are the results.

How did you first become aware of this restaurant?
The spontaneous nature of the QSF visits at 35% has implications for most business strategies,
particularly advertising in the form of on-premise signage. Burger King and its co-plaintiffs won the lawsuit, and the City was permanently enjoined from enforcing its high-rise pole sign ban against them. (See, Denny's Inc., et.al. v. City of Agoura Hills, 56 Cal.App. 4th 1312, 66 Cal. Rptr 2d 382 (1997)).
In another example, The Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) has trip generation rates that are
derived from counts taken at the driveway of various land uses. While typical trip generation rates are
Participants' Responses Quick Service Food (% of responses)
Family Restaurant (% of responses)
Atmosphere Restaurant (% of responses)
Saw it (the sign) while passing 35% 26% 13%
Always knew 29% 27% 19%
Word of mouth 14% 30% 54%
Advertising 10% 6% 4%
All other 6% 7% 7%
Don't know 6% 4% 3%

Derived from counts taken at the driveways of various land uses, not all trips generated at the driveway
represent new trips made for the express purpose of entering the site; instead some are made by
motorists who did not set out for the site, but who enter it as an intermediate stop on the way to or from
another destination. This type of stop is referred to by the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) as a
"pass-by trip"; for our purposes, it is defined as an "impulse" stop.

The percentage of pass-by trips or impulse stops varies by land use. The following table sets out ITE
estimates regarding the percentage of stops attributable to motorists for whom the site is not a scheduled
destination. The table demonstrates that impulse trade is very important to many businesses. Effective onpremise communication can help persuade passersby to stop and shop.

In the modern marketplace, the right place-based advertising will effectively and economically permit the
local shopkeeper to compete, even with the mass merchandiser or large retailer.

Acquiring New Customers
In 1995, the California Electric Sign Association (CESA) and the International Sign Association (ISA)
commissioned a major study of on-premise signage performance by the University of San Diego. This
study had two parts.

Part I of the study involved analysis of a group of variables, including signage, location, hours of
operation, population demographics and geographic characteristics on sales at 162 southern California
locations of a major fast-food chain. These variables were tested at each location to predict the impact of
on-premise signage upon:
1. annual sales revenues
2. annual number of transactions
3. the average dollar amount spent per transaction.
The results of the study indicated that the number of signs at a particular site has a significant and
positive impact on both the annual sales revenues and number of annual customer transactions. For
example, from the results of the study, the researchers were able to predict:
Type of Land Use Impulse-Stop
Percentages
Shopping Centers:
Larger than 400,000 sf Gross Area 20%
Between 100,000 to 400,000 sf Gross Area 25%
Smaller than 100,000 sf Gross Area 35%
Convenience Market 40%
Discount Club/Warehouse Store 20%
Fast Food Restaurant 40%
Sit Down Restaurant 15%
Service Station 45%
Supermarket 20%

1. On average, one additional on-premise sign resulted in an increase in annual sales revenues of
4.75%. This translates to a $23,750 increase in average sales revenues for a typical store in the
study group with annual sales of $500,000.
2. On average, one additional on-premise sign increased the annual number of transactions by
3.93%. This translates into more than 3,900 additional transactions for a store with an annual
average of 100,000 transactions.
3. On average, one additional 36-square-foot wall sign added $0.06 per transaction, while one
additional 144-square-foot pole sign added $0.78 per transaction.
Part II of the study involved analyzing seven years of weekly sales data for "Pier 1 Imports" to measure
the effects of modifications, additions, or removal of on-premise signage on sales performance.

The results showed that "on-premise signage has a statistically significant and financially substantive
impact on the revenues of a site [and]... is a significant constituent of the factors causing the success of a
retail endeavor." In brief:
1. The addition of new signage to previously unsigned buildings, and the replacement of existing
signage (generally, with larger signs) resulted in an average revenue increase of 5%.
2. The addition of a pole sign, or a plaza identity sign including the store's name, resulted in an
average increase in weekly sales of 5-10%. The increase was attributed by the researchers to the
new signs' enhancement of site visibility to passing traffic.
3. The addition of small directional signs indicating entrance and exit routes resulted in weekly sales
increases ranging from 4-12%. The increases were attributed to the signs' ability to guide a sitebound
shopper more than any specific advertising effect.
These increases in revenues, as a result of signage, demonstrate the positive effect on profitability at a
specific site, especially given that normal profits in the retail industry are approximately 1-2%.
The California Electric Sign Association (CESA), the International Sign Association (ISA), the Sign User
Council of California, and the Business Identity Council of America sponsored the study. A summary of the findings appears in The Economic Value of On-Premise Signage, a compendium of signage-related
research results and articles (e.g., sign amortization; copyright and trademark protection.) The booklet was published jointly in 1997 by CESA and ISA.

Modifying Customary Purchase Habits
One of the primary goals of advertising is to change purchase behaviors. Effective advertising can
increase purchases within discrete segments of the market by introducing "intervening opportunities"
along customary travel paths. This is especially so in highly discretionary areas, such as quick service
foods and economy lodging, yet it holds true, also, for the business with more specialized products or
services to offer.

Generally, a business' fixed and variable costs should be covered from a stable consumer pool, with
profits coming in from unexpected sources. The right sign often prompts an unplanned stop, or changes
the customer's mind once he is on the premises. Changeable copy and temporary window signs are
especially effective in encouraging variation from accustomed consumption patterns. Because temporary
or variable message signage is relatively inexpensive, the dollars generated by such signage usually
represent pure profit.

It is estimated that 35-50 percent of the consumer population today shops outside their local area.
Legible, conspicuous on-premise signage will assist in attracting a large percentage of these non-local
and newcomer consumers. Further, an effective on-premise sign provides 24-hour exposure of its
message to a large pool of potential customers at a fraction of the cost (when depreciated over several
years) of other media. The lower the cost to obtain customer memory or top-of-mind awareness, the
higher the return on advertising dollars.

The Signage Appraisal Process
Like real estate, signage has a value that can actually be measured or appraised. The visibility component to a real estate site typically encompasses more than the traditional sign out front.

How is an appraisal of a sign done?
The three traditional approaches are:
1. Cost of Replacement (or Substitution). The signage appraisal method applies a cost replacement
approach to determine the cost of replacing a sign's commercial communication or
advertising value with other forms of advertising, such as newspaper, television, and radio
advertisements. It is not used to measure the cost of replacing the physical structure of the sign, as
is the common measure of value in building or home appraisals.
2. Market Comparison. Generally speaking, the market recognizes premium prices for those
commercial properties with the best visibility. Outdoor advertising structures such as billboards or
bus shelters have recognized buying, selling, and leasing markets. The market sales comparison
approach as applied to the visual communication component of signage in its many forms may
measure the differentials of rents in the market. Customer surveys also may be developed, tested
and analyzed. The sales per square foot of similarly situated sites with varying levels of signage or
varying ability to be seen via the passing traffic may also be analyzed.
3. Income Flow or Capitalization. This approach is used to ascertain the present value of the
anticipated future income to be generated by a property over its remaining useful life. For the
purposes of signage appraisal, this method focuses on income generated by customers who are
prompted to stop solely by the sign. The retailer's gross retail margins are analyzed and then
capitalized.

This analysis is complicated by alternative signage forms such as business form or product franchising or
chains where the system is integrated into networks of retail sites supported by national advertising
(media) programs. The fundamentals of valuation and evaluation start with understanding that signs are
commercial speech. Additionally signs are relied upon and used by consumers to make and influence their shopping and purchasing decisions.

Highest and Best Use Analysis
Prior to the above described three-part appraisal process, a highest and best use analysis of the site is
undertaken. This analysis establishes the most profitable use of a site in light of any legal, physical or
financial constraints. Highest and best use (as applied to signage) means that the on-premise sign is
viewable by the intended audience (i.e., passing motorists, pedestrians), and that its copy can
communicate as it's meant to (i.e., is clearly visible, legible and understandable by the intended audience).

If you have any questions, please give us a call at The Sign Studio (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net

NEED QUOTE

 Sign Quote

Topics: Sign Value, Important Sign and Design, Need Signs

Does Your Sign Need Maintenance? Sign Maintenance Is Priority....

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Mon, Apr 16, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

Sign Maintenance and HOW IMPORTANT it really is!

Signage is the single, largest promotional tool you have. It is your way of saying to the public, "Hey! We're open for business and here to serve." Nice job! You've reminded your current customers that you are here ready to take care of their next need and you've introduced your business to future customers.
But what if your sign is in disrepair? What if the lights in and around your sign are out or the face is broken or dirty. Worse yet, what if it is outdated? Now what kind of impression or message are you communicating? It still reads "Hey - pick me" but it consciously and subconsciously causes your customers to read between the lines . . .

. . . and what they're reading isn't good!

It's saying, "maintenance and upkeep isn't a priority for this business and neither is quality or cleanliness." "If they care so little about their business, how could they possibly care about me, their customer?" What your sign has done is effectively set a negative expectation of your business in the mind of your customer. Your unkept sign defeated the very purpose for which it was intended.

Upkeep and freshening of your signage and lighting shouldn't be an afterthought; it should be a priority . . . protect your marketing investment and allow your signage to do what you intended - work for your business, not against it!

Something else to consider: On average, 46% of first-time customers find your business as a result of your sign. What would a 5 or 10% drop in sales mean to your bottom line simply because your sign was in disrepair or out of date?

Sign Maintenance is another area in which our personnel excel. Our 24/7 service department is on call and ready to serve your sign needs. From storm damage to national maintenance support to routine lamp outages, we have the parts, personnel, and knowledge on hand to make sure your sign maintenance needs are addressed in a timely fashion.

Call to schedule your service project TODAY (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net

Sign Maintenance, Sign Upkeep, Sign Problems

Topics: Sign Maintenance, Sign Bulbs and Ballast, Important Signs

Do You Or Any of Your Signs Need a Makeover? Be Honest!

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Fri, Apr 13, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

Do You Or Any of Your Signs Need a Makeover?  Be Honest!

Revitalize Your Business with a Sign Makeover

Your signs say a lot about who you are and what you do. That's why it's critical that you display the right signs and graphics for your business, event or organization. Sign makeovers from The Sign Studio can help make a big difference in your success.

Whether you want a few simple updates, or are in need of a complete sign and graphics makeover, we work with you to understand your specific sign needs. THE SIGN STUDIO makes it simple for you to bring your creative ideas to life or, we can design something customized to your specifications.

Keys to an Effective Sign Makeover

• Photos in advertising create 300% greater recall than ads without photos.*
• Full-color graphics create the highest awareness of all sign categories. **
• Colored backgrounds organize information and enable viewers to read it 26% faster. ***

* Based on a Direct Marketing Association study on color
** Based on a 3M marketing study on visual merchandising
*** Source: Pennsylvania College of Optometry

If you have any further questions or need any information, please contact The Sign Studio at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net

NEED QUOTE
Sign Makeover Before and After

Topics: Sign Makeover, Refurbish Sign, Design Sign

Do You Need to Refurbish or Evaluate Your Signs?

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Thu, Apr 12, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

Do You Need to Refurbish or Evaluate Your Signs?

It's Time to Evaluate Your Signage!

Signage is often overlooked, but what does your sign say about your company...

• Do you look open for business?
• Welcoming to customers?
• Is your sign easy to read and spot from the road?

Signage can help answer the following questions:

• What type of business are you?
• Who are you trying to reach?
• Is your business thriving?

A little cosmetic work can refresh your business. A decaying or fading sign reflects poorly upon a business. First impressions are key and you only have one opportunity to make them. Have you considered a sign face lift?

A business with no sign, is a sign of no business!

Without a sign:

• Your business has no identity
• A lack of business traffic

The Sign Studio will work within your budget to help you form the identity you're looking for. Don't go another day without signage, or a sign face lift!

If you have any further questions or need any information, please contact The Sign Studio at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net

NEED QUOTE

Sign Makeover Before and After

Topics: Sign Plan and Design, Refurbish Sign, Sign Evaluation

Sign Variance and Sign Permits - Do You Need A Sign Variance?

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Wed, Apr 11, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

Do You Need Or Want A Sign Variance?

SIGN VARIANCE - What is that? Why do I need a Sign Variance?

It is important to work with your sign professional and local zoning department when designing your business signage. A quick check on the zoning/building code will give you a guideline to use when developing your signage.

Sign Variance Picture

Sign variances become necessary when unique circumstances exist for a property that do not allow for adequate identification of the business. Most sign variances are requested for the purpose of exceeding a municipality's square footage or setback allowances. A quasi-judicial board of elected community members will hear your case and make a decision based on the characteristics of your specific request. Many communities request that you consider and provide answers to the Duncan Factors (used for consideration of area requests).

These are seven factors which the board must answer before approving your variance request. Please find these factors, summarized below:

1). Will the property provide a reasonable return without the variance?
2). Is the variance substantial?
3). Will the surrounding properties be adversely effected by the variance?
4). Will the variance inhibit government services (fire, police, ems)?
5). Is the hardship self-inflicted?
6). Is there a reasonable alternative to this variance?
7). Does the variance follow with the keeping of the zoning code? (Minimum amount needed)

If you have any further questions or need any information, please contact The Sign Studio at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net.

NEED QUOTE

Sign Quote


Topics: Sign Permits, Sign Design, Sign Variance

Make Sure Your New Electrical Sign Is UL Approved to Specifications.

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Tue, Apr 10, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

Make Sure Your New Electrical Sign Is UL Approved to Specifications.

Illuminated Store Front Channel Letters May Look Alike But Do You Know What You Are Getting?


Channel Letter

Illuminated store front Channel Letters may look alike but do you know what you are really getting?

At The Sign Studio each channel letter is fabricated to UL specifications. Why is this important? Simple, it assures the customer their illuminated 3D letter above their store front is safe and built to last. Drive around at night, see burned out signage, flickering neon and broken plexi faces. The average customer is unaware what they are truly getting for the price they are being quoted, after-all all letters appear to look the same from the outside when first installed BUT the big difference is the way in which the sign letters are manufactured.

What materials will be used in the fabrication of your electrical sign letter? The Sign Studio uses heavy gauge aluminum where some competitors use cheap paint lock metal which start to rust the day it goes up ( ever see brown rusty streaks coming off a letter on the building? that's paint lock metal ), secondly what thickness is the acrylic pan channel letter face? Thin sheets of plastic are half the price of standard but one may not tell until the weather changes because plexi expands and contracts as climates get colder or hotter thus cheap plastic faces crack quick. What about the lighting ? Is it 2 rows of 12mm Neon or 1 row of 8 mm Neon? What about the transformers, are they used or rebuilt? Even wiring cost differ greatly. Thus next time you are in the market for Channel Letters, whether plastic faces, led lit, Open Face Neon or even Halo reverse lit, it is always good to ask if your getting UL letters. Look for the sticker (is it real), ask the shop for their UL number and always be suspicious of low prices. You may find your sign letters look good the first few weeks but when costly service calls happen your original cost rise fast, so when you are looking to get your business name in lights, contact The Sign Studio at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net.

Remember, know your image will be well lit when the sun goes down with properly fabricated UL letters, you will get what you pay for at thsignstudioonline.com

NEED QUOTE

Request A Sign Quote

 

Topics: Electrical Signs, UL LIsted and Approved Signs, Illuminated Signs

Are Blade Signs The Right Kind Of Sign For You and Your Business?

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Mon, Apr 9, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

Are Blade Signs The Right Kind Of Sign For You and Your Business?

What are Blade Signs ?

Blade signs are often used when you're looking to attract pedestrians or drivers who don't see your storefront because they are traveling perpendicular to the front of your business. So while they may not be able to see your front sign, they will see your blade sign. Blade signs are often illuminated both on the front and back with 2 faces, however they also hang from a variety of different brackets with a cut-out design. Our custom-made blade signs and bracket solutions are eye catching and built/constructed to withstand all the elements. The Sign Studio uses top grade materials. There are so many variations in materials and colors, as well as mounting options. Single or double-sided, illuminated or non-illuminated, our blades are engineered to project your message and grab the attention of pedestrian and passerbys.

If you have any questions, please give us a call at The Sign Studio 818-843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net.
Need Quote

Blade Sign Pictures

Topics: Commercial Signs, Blade Signs, Outside and Outdoor Signs

Retractable Banner Stands with a 5 Year Warranty - Can You Bet That?

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Fri, Apr 6, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

Retractable Banner Stands with a 5 Year Warranty - Can You Bet That?

Stand out at your next trade show or event with retractable banners from THE SIGN STUDIO!

Our retractable banner stands are an easy, cost-effective promotional solution. All of our retractable banner displays are constructed in eco-friendly facilities and are even recyclable once they've reached the end of their life.

THE SIGN STUDIO offers several banner stand models in both standard and economy categories to suit your needs and wallet! The best thing, all our retractable banners stands come with a 5 year warranty!!!!

Our standard family of retractable banners is a group of high-quality, rigid retractable banner stands made in the USA from the finest materials. These retractable banners feature molded end plates and a three-piece bungee corded pole. Our standard models stand 83.25 inches tall and are available in widths of 31.5 inches, 35.5 inches, and 39.25 inches. Double-sided retractable banner displays are also available.

Our economy line of retractable banner stands are a low-cost alternative to our standard roll up banner stands. THE SIGN STUDIO's economy models are functional and reliable, but use lighter weight materials and simpler construction to save you money. These portable banner stands are produced by a handful of independent retractable banner and display producers from all across Asia. Two economy models are available to fit your needs and your budget: our single-sided model measures 31 inches wide and 77.5 inches tall, while our double-sided retractable banner is 32.75 inches wide and 78.25 inches tall.

If you need help with your graphics, let the experts at THE SIGN STUDIO design it for your, just sit back and wait for your layouts to review via e-mail. It's that simple!

Retractable Banner Stand
If you have any further questions or need more information, please call us at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net.

Need A QUOTE

Sign Quote

Topics: Retractable Banner Stands, Tradeshow Displays, Banner Stands with Warranty

Signs Are Your Marketing and Advertising Tool!

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Thu, Apr 5, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

SIGNS ARE YOUR MARKETING AND ADVERTISING TOOL!

Have you considered the impact that your sign has on your business?

Let's discuss what signage can do for your business, and how signs can be used to your advantage.

Introduction

Signs are one of the most efficient and effective means of communication. Signs help people find you; they reach people who are passing by your establishment; they present an image of your business. In short, signs, tell people who you are and what you are selling.
Signs are such a powerful communication medium that it is difficult to estimate the extent of their influence. Other media require the directed attention of the person receiving the message. Signs, however, can convey a message while creating a mood or feeling of atmosphere. It is not necessary for people to give full attention to your sign in order to derive meaning from its presence.

What Is a Sign?

A sign is the most direct form of visual communication available. In fact, so many people use signs without a second thought that it is easy to overlook their importance. When we cannot talk to other people directly in a given location, we tack up signs: wet paint, beware of dog, enter here, garage sales, etc. signs are the only form of mass communication directly available to everyone - they are the people's street communication system.

What Signs Can Do for Your Business

- Signs perform three major communications functions for your business; they give information and direction, provide a format for street advertising, and build your image.
- Signs Give Information About Your Business and Direct People to Your Business Location.
- Signs index the environment so people can find you. This is especially true for travelers, new members of your community, and impulse shoppers who may be on a journey to purchase a particular good or service which you sell. Americans are mobile. Each year 40 million of us travel over 1.7 trillion miles by automobile and approximately 19 per cent of us change our place of residence. A primary source of customers for your business is the large number of people who are new to your community or who may be just passing through. Your sign is the most effective way of reaching this mobile or transient group of potential customer.
- Signs can correct a poor location by substituting effective communication for poor site characteristics. If your business is located on a site which is not visible or in a building which does not correspond with the goods or services offered, your sign can overcome this disability. For example, most buildings are not built to conform to the design needs of any particular type of tenant. Without an effective sign it is often impossible to determine what type of business is being conducted in a given building. In addition, when your site is located off a busy traffic artery or in an area which is not easily accessible your sign can communicate to people who are passing on a busy street several blocks away. If you are located off a busy freeway but far from an exit, your sign becomes your main device for directing people to your business. High-rise signs are used when a business is located away from potential customers' normal pathways of travel.

Signs Are Street Advertising

Your sign provides an easily recognizable display format for the goods or services you are selling. For most businesses the street is where potential customers are. The message conveyed on the street reaches people who are close enough to make a purchase.

Street advertising also helps people develop a memory of your business name and the products and services you sell. People tend to buy from businesses they know.

Signs can build an image for your business and help you identify with the market segment you are trying to reach.

Through materials and design, a sign can appeal to a given group of potential customers. For example, some firms attempt to capture the youth market, others senior citizens, others unmarried single people and so forth. If you have a particular market segment that you wish to attract to your business, your sign can be an important means of bringing these people in.

The Advantages of Signs
On-premise signs are your most effective and efficient means of commercial communication because they are inexpensive, available, practical, easy to use, always on the job, and directly oriented to the trade area of your business.

For further information or if you have any questions, please contact The Sign Studio at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net

NEED QUOTE
Signs As a Marketing Tool Image

Topics: Advertising and Marketing Signs, Industry Signs, Signs and Banners

Most Frequently Cited Violations for Electrical Sign Contractors

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Wed, Apr 4, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

OSHA's Top Ten Most Frequently Cited Violations for Construction and Electrical Sign Contractors
 
Following are the 10 most frequently cited OSHA violations for construction and electrical sign contractors:

1. Scaffolding - Regulations require that "scaffolds shall be designed by a qualified person and shall be
constructed and loaded in accordance with that design."

2. Hazard Communication - Employers are required to provide employees with training and information
on hazardous chemicals in their work areas at the time of initial assignment or whenever the hazard is
introduced.

3. Fall Protection Training - Employers are required to provide a training program for each employee who might be exposed to fall hazards.

4. Respiratory Protection - Employers are required to develop and implement a written respiratory
protection program with required worksite-specific procedures and elements for required respirator use.

5. Lockout/Tagout - Employers are required to establish a program and utilize procedures for affixing
appropriate lockout devices or tagout devices to energy isolating devices, and to otherwise disable
machines or equipment to prevent unexpected energizing, start up or release of stored energy in order to
prevent injury to employees.

6. Powered Industrial Trucks - Employers are required to ensure that each powered industrial truck
operator is competent to operate a powered industrial truck safely, as demonstrated by the successful
completion of training.

7. Electrical: Wiring and Design Protection - Employers are required to use either ground fault circuit
interrupter equipment or an assured equipment grounding conductor program.

8. Machine Guarding - One or more methods of machine guarding are required in order to protect the
operator and other employees in the machine area from hazards such as those created by point of
operation, ingoing nip points, rotating parts, flying chips and sparks.

9. Ladders - The law requires that ladders be inspected by a "competent" person for visible defects on a
periodic basis and after any occurrence that could affect their safe use. Portable ladders with structural
defects such as broken or missing rungs, cleats, or steps, broken or split rails, corroded components, or
other faulty or defective components, shall either be immediately marked in a manner that IDs them as
defective, or be tagged with "Do Not Use" or similar language, and shall be withdrawn from service until
repaired.

10. Electrical Wiring Methods, Components and Equipment - Regulations require that "for temporary wiring over 600v, nominal fencing barriers or their effective means shall be provided to prevent access of other than authorized or qualified personnel. Electrical feeds shall originate in a distribution center. Branch circuits shall originate in a panel board or power outlet. Receptacles shall be of the grounded type and flexible cords shall be protected."

Safety Construction and Electrical Signs Picture

The Sign Studio is proud to say that we have never been cited for any OSHA Violations. If you have any questions or need any safety signage, please feel free to call us at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net -
NEED QUOTE

The Sign Studio - Electrical Sign Contractors -

LET US DESIGN/FABRICATE AND INSTALL YOUR SIGN WHILE YOU BUILD YOUR BUSINESS!!

Topics: Sign Safety, OSHA and Signs, Sign Violations

Los Angeles Signs | VARIOUS TYPES OF OUTSIDE EXTERIOR SIGNS

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Tue, Apr 3, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

See the VARIOUS OUTSIDE EXTERIOR SIGNS

The clothing of a company! The signs on the outside exterior of any business create a first impression to your employees, customers and visitors. Make sure your signs say the right things about you and give the best first impression they possibly can!

The Sign Studio fabricates signs that are used for shop fascias, business signs, industrial signs and more – from complex signs for multisite locations to pavement furniture or temporary signs. The Sign Studio also supplies illuminated signs for maximum night time impact. 

DIFFERENT TYPES OF EXTERIOR SIGNS

FASCIA SIGNS

Fascias show visitors and customers who you are at first glance and give your premises an identity.  This is very important as you want to make your first impression stand out. 

Fascia Signs

 

 

 

 

ILLUMINATED SIGNS

 

You can brighten up your business and increase your company’s visibility with illuminated signs.

Illuminated Signs

 

 

 

INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL SIGNS

 

Use large, eye-catching signage to draw attention to your commercial units.

Industrial Signs

 

 

DIRECTIONAL SIGNS

Easily appointed signs help to navigate people to particular locations.

Wayfinding Signs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

POST & PANEL EXTERIOR SIGNS

Post & Panel Sample

 

The most commonly used sign systems are post & panel mounted signs which are also very cost-effective for an exterior sign that is used widely across many businesses.

 

 

 

 

 

PLAQUES

Sign Plaques

The Sign Studio can design and manufacture plaques to suit your needs in all styles and sizes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNICADES OR A-FRAMES

 

Signicade or A Frame Sample

Portable pavement boards are available in a range of materials and colors, bringing attention to your retail area and advertising promotions.

If you have any questions or need further information, please give us a call at (818) 843-9200 or visit our website at www.signstudiola.com – You can also reach us by e-mail at info@signstudiola.com

NEED QUOTE

Sign Quote

Topics: A Frame or Standing Signs, Outdoor or Exterior Signs, Plaques

How Effective Do You Think Your Sign Is? Make Sure Your Sign Is!

Posted by Julie and Chris Ramirez on Mon, Apr 2, 2012 @ 06:04 AM

Signs Are Effective

Your sign is an integral part of your advertising program along with the other forms of commercial communication such as television, radio, newspapers, magazines, and billboards. There are four basic criteria used to judge the effectiveness of these advertising media: (1) coverage of the trade area, (2) repetition of a message, (3) readership of a message, and (4) cost per thousand exposures of a message. Two other criteria important for the small business owner are (5) availability and (6) ease of use. Let's see how signs measure to the above criteria.

1) Signs are oriented to your trade area. Signs do not waste your resources by requiring you to pay for wasted advertising coverage. The people who see your sign are the people who live in your trade area.

2) Signs are always on the job repeating your message to potential customers. Your on-premise sign communicates to potential customers twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, week after week, month after month, year after year. Every time people pass your business establishment they see your sign. The mere repetition of the message will help them remember your business.

3) Nearly everyone reads signs. Signs are practical to use for nearly everyone is used to looking at signs and using signs, even small children. Studies have shown that people do read and remember what is on signs. When special items are displayed, sales increase for these particular items within the store.

4) Signs are inexpensive. When compared to the cost of advertising in some other media, the on-premise sign is very inexpensive. Table 1 indicates the cost-per-thousand-exposures for various media in a given type of community. Unless your trade area encompasses an entire city or region, where you must rely upon broad based media coverage, there is no better advertising dollar value than your on-premise sign.

5) Signs are available to each and every shop owner. There is no need to schedule the use of your sign. Your sign is available to you whenever you need it and to be used however you please.

6) Signs are easy to use. No special skills or resources are needed to operate a sign once it has been installed. If it is an illuminated sign, all you need to do is flip the switches and that may not be necessary with timing equipment. Once the initial expenditures are made no special resources or professional services are needed. You need only operate and maintain your sign.

For further information or if you have any questions, please contact The Sign Studio at (818) 843-9200 or send us an e-mail at thesignstudio@sbcglobal.net

NEED QUOTE

Sign Estimate

Effective Signs Image 3

Topics: Effective Signs, Signs Make You Money, You Need Signs and Banners