The importance of well-designed signage for colleges and universities cannot be overstated. No matter the size of the school, students and faculty need to be able to find their way around campuses quickly and easily. Offering clear and concise information about the institution is essential for maintaining student enrollment and success. Custom signs can also help attract new students and donors to a school or college.
There are a variety of different types of custom signs that can be installed in colleges and universities. These include directional signs, message boards, banners, placards, and yard signs. It’s essential to choose the right type of sign for your needs; otherwise, you may end up with an unimpressive display or one that’s not compliant with ADA requirements. With the proper planning, you can ensure that your campus looks great while providing crucial information to all who pass by!
Types of signs used in schools & colleges
Every college or university needs signs to help guide students and visitors. There are many different types of signs, but a few of the most common are directional signs, informational signs, menus, and school branding. Directional signs tell people where they need to go to reach their destination. Informational signs include room numbers, entry and exit signs, and other indicators orienting people to classrooms or offices. Students usually have limited time in the dining hall, so menu signs make it quicker and easier for them to order food. Furthermore, signage promoting the school’s brand and identity is important for cultivating school spirit and recruiting future students.
No matter the sign’s purpose, it should be designed to make navigation easier and promote a positive image of the school or college. This can be achieved by choosing reflective and visible signs featuring large text that can be read from a distance. It’s also crucial to ensure all signs are easily removable for easy editing and replacement.
The importance of ADA compliance
Schools and colleges constantly install new custom signs to promote their brand and messages. These signs must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to avoid discriminating against students or employees. A sign’s placement, inter-character spacing, fonts, color contrast, use of Braille, and more are all important factors to consider when designing signs for schools and colleges. The requirements are complex, and failure to comply will open a school to liability and expense. When choosing a sign company, make sure they have a good understanding of ADA compliance and can create signage that meets all applicable regulations.
Have a plan for ongoing sign management
Schools and colleges are constantly changing. Professors come and go, buildings are built and rebuilt, and new students are learning to navigate campus for the first time every year. Also, ADA compliance requirements are constantly being updated. Signage needs to accommodate these changes with minimal disruption to on-campus activities. Piecemeal signage updates lead to headaches in the long term. That’s why schools and colleges should ensure someone takes ownership of maintaining and updating on-campus signs. An experienced sign company with ADA compliance experience makes a great partner for academic institutions looking to implement a sign management plan.
