A good sign design and proper sign layout will not only set you apart from your competitors, but also be more effective for your customer. Your sign is the image of your business, so make sure you are using a sign that has effective design and layout with an eye catching image that is visually appealing and easily read (legible words). Borders substantially enhance almost any sign as well as the side margins, the rounded corners add a touch of class (so apply them). The rule of thumb on side margins is half (1/2) the letter height, so check the margins and be sure you are giving your layouts the proper space to be legible. Avoid using unnecessary words and leave off superfluous words like "We are open Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm" where its more important to use bigger font and less characters instead - like "Open 9 - 5" and on the other hand make sure you use key words and emphasis them by making them taller, longer and or bolder. The use of negative space is very important in the sign composition, you do not want to over clatter your sign and on the other hand you do not want to leave too much negative space  that can take away from the brand name - the negative space should be well balanced to be effective.