Tag Archives: business signs

Beware The Temptation to Bow to the Squeaky Wheel

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Good versus Cluttered Signage

Good versus Cluttered Signage

The “squeaky wheel gets the grease” is a well-known adage that highlights how the most vocal or noticeable issues tend to receive the most attention. While this principle might apply effectively in some contexts, it becomes a challenge in business, especially when designing and implementing signage strategies.

The question is: should the squeaky wheel dictate your signage decisions? Let’s delve into this theory, its implications for signage, and why it is essential to balance focus and avoid being overly reactive to the loudest demands.

The Role of Signage in Business

Good signage serves as a silent yet impactful ambassador for your business. Good business signage attracts attention, conveys information, and reinforces your brand identity. Whether you’re running a small boutique or a multinational chain, well-designed signage can:

  • Enhance visibility and draw in potential customers.

  • Communicate essential details like promotions, directions, and operating hours.

  • Turn a warehouse feeling space into a warm inviting environment people want to shop in.

  • Reinforce brand trust and professionalism.

However, if the design, placement, or messaging of your signage is dictated by the squeaky wheel – a vocal customer or employee with immediate, short-term concerns – it can completely derail your long-term strategy.

Why Catering to the Squeaky Wheel Can Backfire

While it’s beneficial, if not essential, to listen to feedback, over-prioritizing the demands of the squeaky wheel can result in poor decision-making. Here are some key reasons:

  1. Short-Term Gratification vs. Long-Term Goals The squeaky wheel often focuses on immediate needs. For example, a vocal customer might demand large, overly bright signage for an ongoing sale. While this could temporarily boost foot traffic, it might clash with your brand’s aesthetic, alienate your regular clientele, or fail to align with your broader marketing objectives.

  2. Distracting from Data-Driven Decisions A single loud opinion should never outweigh comprehensive research. For instance, your business might have analytics proving that subtle, well-placed directional signs increase customer navigation and satisfaction. A squeaky wheel’s demand for overly flashy signage could disrupt this harmony.

  3. Alienating Other Stakeholders If you focus solely on addressing one vocal party’s preferences, you risk alienating your broader audience. Signage should cater to the majority – a collective representation of your target demographic – not a minority’s immediate gratification.

Real-Life Stories of Squeaky Wheels and Signage

Story 1: The Oversized Sale Banner
A boutique store owner had a loyal customer who insisted that an enormous neon-colored banner would drive sales during a holiday promotion. The owner, eager to please, replaced the store’s elegant signage with a garish banner. While the store saw a short-term spike in foot traffic, regular customers commented that the signage clashed with the brand’s upscale identity. The business later had to spend significant resources repairing the damage to its image.

Story 2: Employee-Led Signage Change
In another example, a restaurant manager listened to an employee’s suggestion to add multiple directional signs in the dining area to “help customers.” While well-intentioned, the signs cluttered the space and confused diners, leading to complaints about the overwhelming atmosphere. A professional signage consultation later revealed that one well-placed sign near the entrance was all that was required and worked better than all the other signs together.

Finding the Right Balance

To avoid being overly influenced by squeaky wheels, businesses must adopt a balanced approach to signage decisions:

  1. Data-Driven Insights
    Analyze customer behavior, traffic patterns, and sales data to make informed signage decisions. For example, heatmaps of store foot traffic can help determine optimal sign placement.

  2. Consistent Branding
    Your signage should consistently reflect your brand’s voice, colors, and values.     Even temporary deviations can confuse customers and dilute brand equity.

  3. Broad Feedback
    Gather input from multiple stakeholders rather than reacting to one opinion. Consider conducting surveys or focus groups to gain a broader perspective.

  4. Professional Expertise
    Consult with signage professionals to ensure your designs align with     current industry best practices and long-term goals.

The Bigger Picture

Regardless of your business’s size, allowing the squeaky wheel to dominate your signage strategy can hinder growth and alienate loyal customers. While it’s essential to listen and address concerns, the most effective signage solutions arise from thoughtful planning, alignment with brand values, and a focus on long-term objectives.

Signage as a Strategic Asset

Think of your signage as an investment. It should:

  • Represent your brand accurately.

  • Engage a broad audience.

  • Adapt to changing needs without compromising consistency.

By resisting the urge to overcorrect for the squeaky wheel, you’ll ensure that your signage serves as a cohesive and powerful extension of your business.

For signs that work and reflect your business contact SignForce now on info@signforce.co.za or call +27 (0)11 440 7525 or WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413

For more about SignForce visit http://www.signforce.co.za

What is FAILURE?

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What is failure

Trends – as in history repeating itself – is quite something to study. There are trends in history – one need look no further than the current state of the ‘free’ world – and there are trends in business as in training and many things one can watch on Instagram and almost all other social media.

One of the current trends this writer has been exposed to is the use, need and benefits of FAILURE.

Sadly (in this writers opinion) in the world of mass education, failure is often portrayed as BAD, TERRIBLE, LIFE THREATENING, LIFE ENDING or worse. This writers personal experience with subjective FAILURE was first noticed when I accidently got my partner pregnant. Not a major issue other than the fact we were not married, we came from fairly different backgrounds – her father was a minister of the Church and this writer is Jewish – and when I though back to my relatively conservative education getting a young lady pregnant out of wedlock was equal to going bankrupt, both of which were such bad life choices that suicide was considered an acceptable escape.

Good to see how that trend has changed.

Today there are many trainers, motivators and influencers on social media, as well as business coaches and venture capitalists who will not even look at someone or their business unless they can prove they have failed.

For this writer I find this amusing and negative. If someone asked me if I have ever failed my answer would be no. I have never failed, but I have learned a large number of ways not to do certain things (even if I do still do some of those things).

The reason I do not see myself as having ever failed is because from my perspective failure comes with a number of negative connotations, yet the lessons I have learned from my multiple attempts – sometimes subjectively seen as failures by others – are invaluable.

For example, one thing I have learned is that some ‘failures’ – such as getting my girlfriend pregnant while bankrupt – gifted me with a wonderful child who brings much joy to my life (as do his brothers who were born when I was married). Another lesson learned from the failure of my first attempt at business is that killing oneself would potentially deprive one of all the fun and games that can come from the lessons learned through a business not working and applying those lessons to future endeavors that may work out differently.

To this writer FAILURE, like sexy or love – is in the eye of the beholder. If one looks at subjective failure in the way Thomas Edison reputedly did, then failure does not exist, instead failure teaches one a number of lessons and tests one’s resolve to find better working options.

If however one views the world as a place where perfection is required and where any placement other than being number 1 is a failure, then in the philosophy of this writer, life is very likely going to be more challenging, more destructive and more depressing and less fulfilling than necessary.

At SignForce we are fortunate that the number of signage failures we have had is measurable on one hand (maybe two if I have to jog my memory sufficiently), but we have had great lessons from each of these so called failures, which contribute to the value and quality of the signs we offer to all our customers.

If you want the benefit of the lessons we have learned contact SignForce now on info@signforce.co.za or WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413 or call +27 (0)11 440 7525

Find out more about SignForce at http://www.signforce.co.za

The Importance of Strategic Planning for Business Signage

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Free Standing Business Sign

Free Standing Business Sign

For business owners, your business signage is more than just a marker; your business signage is a cornerstone of brand identity, customer engagement, and visibility. Because of it’s importance, especially for a brick-and-mortar business, a lack of planning in creating and implementing signage can have far-reaching consequences for production quality and functionality of your business sign, and ultimately, the success of your business.

This article delves into how insufficient planning for signage impacts many aspects and the long-term effects on your enterprise.

Production Challenges

When businesses fail to plan adequately, the production phase of signage often suffers. Rushed timelines and unclear specifications often lead to errors, unplanned delays and possible reduced quality. For instance, without precise measurements, materials might be improperly sourced or cut, resulting in additional costs and wasted resources. Vendors may also struggle to meet tight deadlines, potentially compromising the quality of workmanship.

Additionally, neglecting to consider environmental factors, such as weather resistance or durability, during the planning stage can lead to premature wear and tear. This lack of foresight often necessitates costly repairs or replacements, unnecessarily further straining budgets.

Quality Compromises

The quality of signage directly reflects the professionalism of a business. Poor planning frequently results poor quality signs with subpar designs, illegible fonts, or inappropriate color schemes. A lack of alignment with brand identity can confuse potential customers or leave a weak impression. For example, a luxury brand with signage that looks cheap or outdated may struggle to attract its target, astute, demographic.

Moreover, failing to engage professional designers or consult signage experts can result in technical flaws. These might include uneven lighting in illuminated signs, peeling paint, or colors which fade or run prematurely – all of which undermine the effectiveness of the signage.

Functionality Issues

Signage must serve a functional purpose, such as guiding customers, providing essential information, or enhancing visibility. Insufficient planning can result in signage that is difficult to read, improperly placed, or non-compliant with corporate identity or local regulations. A sign positioned too high, for example, might go unnoticed, while one installed in a poorly lit area could be ineffective at night.

Neglecting to account for accessibility can also alienate potential customers. Businesses that fail to include braille or ensure regulatory compliance may face legal repercussions together with a tarnished reputation.

Business Impact

The ramifications of poorly planned signage extend beyond production and design of the sign. Low-quality, un-maintained or dysfunctional signage can deter potential customers, reduce foot traffic, and harm brand perception. In competitive markets, businesses cannot afford to lose customers simply because their signage failed to communicate effectively.

Long-term consequences of poor quality signage can include diminished customer trust and loyalty. A business with deteriorating or outdated signage signals neglect, raising doubts about the quality of its products or services. Furthermore, repeated costs for repairs or replacements due to poor planning can drain financial resources that could be better invested elsewhere.

The Solution: Thoughtful Planning

To avoid the pitfalls mentioned above, business owners and marketing teams are well advised to prioritize strategic planning for their signage. Begin by consulting professionals, setting clear objectives, and establishing realistic budgets and timelines. Consider factors such as target audience, environmental conditions, and compliance with local codes. By investing time and effort upfront, businesses can ensure their signage is visually appealing, functional, and durable.

It is essential to remember that effective signage is a critical asset for any business. Neglecting to plan can lead to production hiccups, quality issues, and long-term damage to brand reputation. By approaching signage with the same strategic mindset applied to other aspects of your business, you can create and expect impactful, high-quality signage that drives success to your business for years to come.

For signs and advice on signage contact SignForce now on info@signforce.co.za or call +27 (0)11 440 7525 or WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413

For more about SignForce visit http://www.signforce.co.za

Why Your Business Sign Could Be Your Greatest Investment – Part 3

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SignForce 'invisible' sign

Partially Invisible Sign (Special effects are built into the sign)

Why Your Business Sign Could Be Your Greatest Investment: Insights from Warren Buffett’s Marketing Outlook

When investing in marketing do you immediately consider your business sign to be a major player in your overall strategy?

Warren Buffett, one of the most successful investors in history, has always emphasized the importance of long-term value, strategic investments, and brand recognition. According to Buffett’s principles, a well-designed and strategically placed business sign could, in fact, be one of your most valuable and cost-effective investments.

Warren Buffett’s Marketing Philosophy

Warren Buffett’s approach to investing is rooted in a few fundamental principles:

  1. Long-Term Value: Buffett believes in investing in assets that will generate value over time. Rather than chasing short-term profits, he focuses on making investments that will appreciate and create sustainable returns.

  2. Brand Strength: A key part of Buffett’s strategy is investing in companies with strong, recognizable brands. He famously acquired businesses like Coca-Cola and See’s Candies because they had established brand power. A strong brand is not just about the products – a strong brand is about the visibility, reputation, and loyalty that the brand builds.

  3. Simplicity and Clarity: Buffett values simplicity, which can be seen in his straightforward approach to business. He believes that a strong business needs a clear value proposition that resonates with customers and is easy to understand.

  4. Leveraging Resources: Buffett is also known for leveraging the resources at his disposal – whether that’s his network, his existing businesses, or tangible assets – to generate greater returns.

Using these principles, we can understand how a well-crafted business sign can align perfectly with Buffett’s marketing outlook, turning it into a powerful asset that brings long-term returns.

The Business Sign as a Strategic Asset

1. An Investment in Long-Term Visibility

Warren Buffett believes in the power of long-term investments that continue to provide value. When it comes to a business sign, this principle is incredibly relevant. A business sign is a one-time investment that, when done right, can continue to deliver value for years or even decades.

Just as Buffett invests in companies that continue to generate profits year after year, your business sign works as a perpetual marketing tool. Your business sign doesn’t require constant updates or ongoing costs like paid advertising, but it keeps working for you around the clock, drawing attention to your business and keeping you top of mind for potential customers. While your business signs do not need constant updating, it Is important that your business signs are maintained and possibly replaced or removed after the sign starts to deteriorate (around 3 years in the African sun) in order to maintain your business’s image.

Unlike digital ads or other forms of advertising that only appear for a short time, your sign has ongoing, consistent visibility. Whether it’s day or night, rain or shine, your business sign is always visible to potential customers, making it a long-term asset that can pay dividends for years to come. The more people see your sign, the more they recognize your brand, which leads to greater customer loyalty, a sense of familiarity and trust that often results in repeat business – values that Warren Buffett highly champions in his investment philosophy.

2. Building a Strong Brand Presence

Buffett understands that brand recognition is a powerful force in the marketplace.

A business sign isn’t just about indicating where you are – your business sign is about communicating who you are and what your business represents. A professional, well-designed sign can create an immediate impression of credibility, professionalism, and reliability. In the same way that Buffett has acquired companies with strong brands (like Apple or GEICO), your business sign contributes to building your brand’s reputation.

The power of a strong, recognizable brand is essential for long-term success. A business sign, when aligned with your company’s values, mission, and personality, can amplify your brand presence and make your business memorable to customers. A sign that clearly conveys your message, whether through design, colors, or a catchy slogan, can serve as a powerful tool for establishing your identity in the local community. This not only attracts new customers but also builds loyalty and trust – key elements of Buffett’s long-term value investing strategy.

3. Simplicity and Clarity in Messaging

Warren Buffett is known for his appreciation of simplicity.

Buffett has often said that he prefers businesses with clear, understandable value propositions. Similarly, your business sign should reflect that simplicity and clarity. A well-crafted sign does not overwhelm or confuse potential customers but instead communicates a straightforward message about your business.

A simple, clean designed sign with clear text can make it easier for customers to understand who you are and what you offer. By reducing clutter and focusing on the essentials, your sign becomes more effective in conveying your brand message. Buffett’s philosophy teaches us that simplicity works, and when your sign is clear and direct, it resonates with customers, builds trust, and makes it easier for them to decide to visit your business.

4. Leveraging Local Visibility for Maximum Impact

Buffett’s investment strategy is all about leveraging resources to maximize returns, and this can be applied to the local visibility your business sign provides. By strategically placing your sign in a high-traffic area, you are leveraging the foot and vehicle traffic and attention of local passersby. For businesses, this means creating a constant stream of potential customers who are in close proximity and more likely to stop in or take action.

A physical sign serves as a cost-effective form of local advertising, drawing attention from people who might never have heard of your business otherwise. Similar to how Buffett might leverage a network or a strong brand to capture attention in a crowded market, your business sign gives you a chance to stand out in your local community, driving more foot traffic to your store or office.

5. An Opportunity for Differentiation

In line with Buffett’s principle of investing in companies that stand out from the competition, a business sign is a powerful tool for differentiation.

A distinctive, well-designed and implemented sign can set your business apart from others in your area, especially in a crowded market. By creating a sign that is unique, memorable, and aligned with your brand, you can differentiate your business from competitors and make a lasting impression on potential customers.

Whether through an innovative design, a clever tagline, or a bold visual identity, your sign can serve as a reflection of what makes your business special. This differentiation builds brand loyalty and attracts customers who align with your values – two key aspects of long-term business success that Warren Buffett consistently looks for in his investments.

Warren Buffett’s marketing outlook highlights the importance of long-term value, brand strength, simplicity, and leveraging resources effectively. When applied to your business sign, these principles reveal just how valuable a simple sign can be. Your simple business sign is more than just a tool for directing customers to your door – your business sign is a strategic investment that can enhance visibility, reinforce brand identity, and provide a consistent marketing presence for years to come.

By following Buffett’s approach to investing in assets that deliver ongoing returns, a well-crafted business sign can become one of your most cost-effective and valuable marketing tools.

Just like the companies Buffett invests in, your business sign has the potential to build brand recognition, foster customer loyalty, and generate long-term success. Your business sign is a small investment that can lead to big returns, and when done correctly, it could very well be your business’s greatest asset.

At SignForce we believe that any GREAT SIGN is a sign that stands out in stark contrast to it’s surroundings with the ‘message’ of the sign speaking volumes about your business with minimal words and achieves the signs job of getting eyeballs that result in feet through your door.

At SignForce we have decades of experience in signs and how they relate to marketing, knowledge which we are happy to use to ensure our client’s signs are cost effective, giving a maximum possible return on investment (ROI).

Like Buffett, SignForce’s philosophy is an extension of the KISS principle. We operate on the basis that generally, the simpler the sign and the greater the contrast, the more a sign makes the viewer uncomfortable, the more likely the sign is to be noticed, and thus the more likely the sign will have a positive ROI.

Contact SignForce now on info@signforce.co.za or call +27 (0)11 440 7525 or WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413

For more about SignForce visit http://www.signforce.co.za

Where is the value of signage

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Where is the value

Why is Signage so valuable?

What is it about signage that South Africa is expected to spend more than R5,500,000,000 on signage in 2024

It could be that signs make a business visible, and without visibility the business may get zero clients and thus not be in business.

But maybe it is something else.

Maybe signage is so valuable because it is a sign. It is not a person. It is not going to get tired (although it may look tired when not maintained), it is not going to continue to ask for an increase, It is not going to discriminate against a viewer.

The sign, once erected (whether paid for or not) will continue to work day and night, in sun, snow and rain, to show anyone who sees it that this is your business and this is what you do.

While some signage is used to reinforce front of mind memory for well known, established brands, think #NIKE, #REDBULL, #MERCEDES, #BMW and the like. These brands want you to remember them all the time, and as such their advertising does not state what they do, because they expect you already know, and will remember what they do when you see their name.

There are however MANY businesses, new and old, that are not as well known, that need to let you, the viewer KNOW what they do because you may not have heard of them, or you may have not see all the products they offer, or you may have been distracted and have forgotten them – either because you used the services of another supplier in the interim or their service or product was so good or so normal that they did not stand out as exceptional and would thus be remembered or, when you do think of them, you see them as being in a specific league, and thus think that they either do not provide the service or product you are looking for.

Any or all of these reasons is why signage that lets prospective clients know what you do is such an incredible investment.

If you are in the market for signs – large or small or tiny – SignForce is available to assist.

Contact SignForce now on info@signforce.co.za or call +27 (0)11 440 7525 or WhatsApp +27 (0) 82 558 6413

Find out more about SignForce at http://www.signforce.co.za

What is a REPUTATION?

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Recognize!

What is a reputation and where can I buy one?

A reputation is being recognized.

Positive recognition comes from being excellent and being consistent and making others feel good.

While at times even SignForce may stumble, or even fall, in the long term (medium term if you follow Keynsian theory) enough work done excellently combined with enough work done at a consistently high quality and making others feel good often enough will lead to people looking up to you and regarding your business as reputable.

The benefit of a reputation is that your brand gets recognized, often your brand will get referrals from people who have used your services and had a positive experience.

It is also possible to get referrals from strangers who recognize your brand, even though they may not have used you themselves. It is essential to ensure your reputation stays intact when working for strangers, both to ensure they are happy to refer you again in the future, and possibly more importantly, to ensure that they do not talk poorly about your business. It is said a positive referral will tell ONE person, while negative talk will tell 13!!

At SignForce our specialty is 3D (three dimensional) signage. We have built a reputation for delivering quality signs, ON TIME.

If you would like to experience the ease of having your signs manufactured and installed, on time without added stress of unfulfilled promises, contact SignForce NOW.

You can contact SignForce on info@signforce.co.za or WhatsApp +27 82 558 6413 or call +27 (0)11 440 7525

Find out more about SignForce by visiting http://www.signforce.co.za

What is the VALUE of PEACE OF MIND

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At Height Work

Working safely at height

Is there a price for PEACE OF MIND?

Lets talk about everyone’s favorite topic, INSURANCE, the commercial phrase for PIECE OF MIND.

I once heard a person say if you want to break up a party, simply walk in to the largest group and tell everyone I SELL INSURANCE! If you are lucky you may get as far as asking what they do before there is no one left to talk to.

While the story may not be entirety true, it does have some relevance, as does insurance, the major grudge purchase businesses have to buy.

Why do businesses need insurance – well mostly because of those pesky things called accidents, also sometimes referred to as black swan events, or simply unplanned – and unplannable? – events.

Accidents happen, and how prepared you are for them may have a massive impact on the future of your business, and possibly on your future too. Why, because if your business suffers a catastrophic event, and you do not have sufficient cover – whether it is money in the bank, insurance or a friendly banker – not only can the event destroy your business, if you are financially reliant on the business for your income, if the business has to close, your source of income will most likely immediately dry up as well.

Hence we purchase insurance.

Now what does INSURANCE have to do with signage. The answer is both A LOT, and NOTHING – yes, extreme contradictions.

Insurance for signage can relate to both insurance cover – as in the type of insurance you pay for to cover your sign in the event your sign gets stolen, or falls down in a severe storm and needs to be replaced, or the insurance you take out should your sign at the top of the building that was shaken by a storm, fall ON someone and injure or kill them. This is ALL insurance taken by the OWNJER of the sign to cover potential accidents.

There is also the second type of ‘insurance’, that is the insurance gained from having PEACE OF MIND. Peace of mind is the ‘insurance’ one gets when using a reputable supplier who you feel you can trust to get the job done without any issues – delays, accidents, errors, or any of a number of potential issues that could you upset as a client.

Here is a story that is a great example of where peace of mind could be seen as insurance. SignForce were recently asked to quote to remove a number of signs from a five story building. Most of the signs, even though they were high, looked to be simple. There was however one LARGE (estimated 6 x 3 meter) sign that was in poor shape which could pose some safety risks, mostly as a result of the sheer size off the sign. The last sign however posed some potential visible threats. This sign stood about 6 meters high, going up from the third story of the building and the steel as visibly rusted. Now the rust may have been superficial which would mean it is not an issue, but when removing a large vertical structure, one would be ill advised to ignore such visible risks.

Now that you have the background, when the SignForce sales person followed up on the prospect to see if they were going to go ahead and use SignForce to remove the signs, the representative was told in very un-Christian terms that SignForce had quoted WAY too high as the prospect could get the job done for about 4% of the quoted fee. The prospect informed the representative that this impressive (potential) saving would be achieved by finding unemployed people looking for piecemeal work and giving them some rope (the cost of the rope was not included in the perceived, supposed 96% saving). One could argue about the time value of money in finding people who would be happy to do risky fork at less than minimal rate, but this blog is not about the wide range of competition SignForce faces.

Now it is probably true that using the unqualified, inexperienced , homeless people the prospect would exploit he would have a 90% chance that he would have been able to do the work at 4% (excluding the rope and anchors) of the quoted fee. He would have been happy and would later be able to recount the savings he made.

However, life being life, the unknown 10% – the possibility of the rope breaking (which could happen if cost saving, incorrect rope is used) or the sign falling (which could happen if rope fail or rope is not correctly secured to the wall anchors or rope is not correctly secured to the sign – this is an art that the qualified ropers are taught – or someone falls off the roof or the ladder or whatever lifting equipment they are using . . . the possibilities are close to endless.

IF the 10% happened the perceived 96% saving could vanish and be replaced by HUGE hospital costs, MASSIVE legal costs, EXORBITANT medical costs and laborious labour issues that no landlord wants to face. This is the PEACE OF MIND ‘INSURANCE’ that comes from dealing with reputable suppliers who are responsible, are qualified and have every intention of working safely to feed AND SEE their families on a daily basis, even it if the price to client is slightly higher than reasonable, similar competition.

While the SignForce quote may be perceived as high, it is all relative to what the cost is being compared to. Yes, SignForce cannot compete on price when comparing us to unqualified homeless people who are prepared to work for a meal, and SignForce do have the added costs of ensuring that the equipment we use and the suitably qualified people we send to site ensure the work is done in a manner which is safe manner so everyone can sleep peacefully at night.

If you are in the market for signage – whether to design, manufacture and install, or to maintain or remove, SignForce is available to assist.

Contact SignForce mow on info@signforce.co.za or call +27 (0)11 440 7525 or WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413

Find out more about how SignForce can serve you at htttp://www.signforce.co.za

SignForce’s reputation

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SignForce

What you see is what you get with SignForce

How SignForce built our Reputation

In the competitive world of signage, having a stellar reputation isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. At SignForce we have always been – and are – aware that our reputation is the collective perception of our business, formed by the quality our work, customer service, and the overall experience that we at SignForce provide, remembering that we are ALWAYS dealing with PEOPLE. SignForce’s reputation is the intangible yet powerful force that sets SignForce apart in a market flooded with choices.

Understanding Reputation: At SignForce we have built our reputation on providing ADVICE on SIGNAGE and MARKETING, with our focus being on ensuring that ANY money spent on signage MUST BE AN INVESTMENT. At its core, SignForce’s reputation is about being acknowledged for excellence, reliability, and our ability to positively influence our clients’ businesses – we get the feet through your door!

SignForce’s reputation has been built through consistent delivery of high-quality signs, innovative design solutions, and exceptional customer experiences over more than two decades under the current management. We would love to say we don’t make mistakes but that would be a lie. What we can say with 100% honesty and great pride is that our ‘mess up’ rate is significantly less than 4.3% and in all our years we have only had three jobs that we had to walk away from because we could not make good.

SignForce’s strong reputation means that when our existing client’s need signage services, SignForce is the first sign business that comes to mind.

Building a Reputable Status: Achieving SignForce’s reputable status has been and still is a journey involving continuous improvement and dedication. Building and maintaining SignForce’s reputation requires a keen focus on excellence in every aspect of our signage business – be it design, material quality, or customer service. Consistency is crucial – SignForce want our clients to know they can rely on us for top-notch work every time.

Equally important is how we at SignForce make our clients feel – appreciated, understood, valued, and SATISFIED. At SignForce we believe that positive experiences lead to positive word-of-mouth, which is invaluable in helping to build our reputation.

Long term Perspective: At SignForce we adopt a LONG TERM approach, unlike Keynesian theory in which it is stated that in the long term we are all dead so nothing matters.

At SignForce we believe out long term view is vital in building and sustaining our reputation – as well as the reputation of our customers – or as we see them, our business partners.

This long term perspective emphasizes consistent quality and engagement over time, rather than quick, short-term gains. For SignForce this means investing in quality materials, innovative design capabilities, a strong, experienced team and building strong, lasting relationships with our clients. At SignForce our goal is to create a cycle where quality work leads to customer satisfaction, which in turn drives our customers growth and hence greater demand and further business opportunities for SignForce as well.

Practical steps to choosing a signage partner:

Any potential buyer of signage is advised to follow the following steps in order to give them the best chance of having a successful, smooth experience when ordering their signs.

Where possible the buyer should evaluate the current standing of your potential signage partner – possibly talking to existing current clients, with the intention to get an understanding of where the your potential signage supplier stands in terms of reputation, ability to fulfil your job and meet your signage requirements. It may also be helpful to gather feedback and check reviews.

In order to ensure a SUCCESSFUL signage process it is imperative that the buyer is able to DEFINE your requirements – clearly define how you want your business to be perceived and define what, to you and your business, would be define as a SUCCESSFUL implementation of signage. Having clearly defined expectations is probably the safest way to confirm that your chosen signage supplier can and will deliver on and to your requirements.

One question you can ask is do the values and attributes of the proposed signage supplier align with our brand.

If you or your business are in the market for signage – regardless of the size of the sign and the size of the job – SignForce is available to assist.

Contact SignForce now on info@signforce.co.za or call +27 (0)11 440 7525 or WhatsaApp +27 (0)82 558 6413

Find out more about SignForce by visiting http://www.signforce.co.za

Seven Important Benefits of Non-uniform Signage

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non-uniform signs that work

Non uniform sign that catches attention and promotes your business

 

Seven Important Benefits of Non-Uniform Signage

Many – if not most – of us human animals tend to appreciate and enjoy visual stimulus being “uniform”.

I am not referring to people who are OCD and everything HAS to be PERFECT, but even for those of us that are quite chilled and un-phased, seeing a painting hanging skew, or a sign that just doesn’t ‘look’ and ‘feel’ right can be anything from a slight irritant to extremely off-putting and upsetting.

The thing is sometimes we as marketers can and SHOULD take full advantage of these predicatable and almost universal traits, as often, that feeling of discomfort helps a viewer look again and again and again – either in an attempt to see what is WRONG, or to find closure and not have to look again or to wonder what other ‘ERRORS’ can be found or to try and figure what FOOL could get the signage SO WRONG!

The reality is that there are a number of benefits to non-uniform signage. In fact any marketing material that can get the viewer to look again and again, especially when the medium is static, has definitely helped improve the client’s investment when measured by engagement for consistent views or time per view.

Seven of the most important, seldom considered benefits of non-uniform signage are:

  1. Increased visibility – Non-uniform signage can be more visible than uniform signage, especially in highly areas highly populated with signage. Non-uniform signage can thus help attract more customers to your business

  1. Cost-effective – Non-uniform signage can be a cost-effective form of marketing for businesses that have limited marketing funds because they can make their professional sign get more views simply because of it’s placement.

  2. Increased reach – Non-uniform signage can increase the reach of marketing campaigns due to increased visibility. Think of a television or social media advert. Chances are the one’s you remember the most either made you laugh or irritated you.

  3. Easily catches attention – A non-uniform sign can easily catch the attention of target customers and passerby. There is a saying that there is no such thing as negative publicity. While this si debatable – think of politicians worldwide – from a business perspective the higher one’s visibility, the greater the chance of being front of mind and hence the greater the chance the customer will remember, relate to and feel comfortable with your brand.

  4. Differentiates from competitors – Non-uniform signage can promote brand identity by using unique designs and colors that are not commonly found on other signs. This helps make your brand stand out from the competition AND is also a great step in brand identification and creating greater awareness of your brand.

  5. Customizable and Increases customer engagement – Non-uniform signs can be customized to your specific businesses brand or unique campaign which can and does increase customer engagement by providing a unique experience that is not found elsewhere.

  6. Promotes creativity – Non-uniform signage promotes creativity by allowing businesses to use unique designs and colors that are not found on other signs, and subconsciously lets your prospects and customers know you are available and open to different ideas.

SignForce is in the business of making custom signs. We design signs that WORK! Work can depend a lot on your specific requirements, which is why not all signs are the same and our customized sign designs do not have a one size fits all approach.

SignForce has been in the signage market for over three decades, and have built our reputation on giving the best possible signage advice and producing quality signs.

Contact SignForce now on info@signforce.co.za or WhatsaApp +27 (0)82 558 6413 or call +27 (0)11 440 7525

Find out more about SignForce by visiting http://www.signforce.co.za

Signs and Technology

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Happy Fathers Day to all the Fathers out there

One positive aspect (and sometimes negative) of the modern world is how fast information can be shared.

This can be positive as, for example, when a message on one of the writers groups went out in the early hours of this morning asking for help as it sounded like someone was in their property and needed assistance, within minutes not only were the first responders on site, but helpful, potentially life saving tips were shared almost instantly.

The possible negative of the speed with which information is shared (mostly negative for politicians) is that, except for the most draconian or dictatorial regimes, information is on tap for people to know what is going on around them. If modern world politicians had a collective brain cell they would KNOW that the truth WILL OUT far quicker than they like to believe – even though FAKE news is said to spread something like ten times faster than truth – as the saying goes, when what you see makes you react INSTANTLY – ASK IF IT IS TRUE!

Technology has certainly helped speed up communication. Unfortunately this has brought with it a number of ailments linked to not keeping up, the fear of missing out, the lack of ability to THINK enough to ensure what is being seen and heard and spread is TRUE, and a number of anxiety related conditions because, especially among the the younger generations, people have forgotten that they are in charge of their devices and thus are too afraid to turn them off, resulting in energy being drained.

One of the advantages of traditional signage is that it is timeless. The signs that one often sees are simple fabricated items that while eye catching and sometimes very technical, do not drain the viewers energy, even while inviting feet into one’s physical premises.

If you are opening physical premises and you want signs that WORK, consider partnering with SignForce.

SignForce has been in the market for over two decades, and have built our reputation on giving the best possible advice and producing quality signs.

Contact SignForce now on info@signforce.co.za or WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413 or call +27 (0)11 440 7525

Find out more about SignForce by visiting http://www.signforce.co.za