Indoor signs
9/20/2021
Every day I see builders truck graphics that extol the ability to do both design and build. I can safely say after being in the design world for many years, this makes perfect sense. It also does not surprise me that there has been more of a transition to signage companies who have the capability to do both design and build work.
There are three main reasons why it may benefit a client to deal with a signage company that has the capabilities to do both design and build in-house.
First, design costs are often less expensive when they become part of an overall package. If the firm focuses solely on design aspects, they are covering all of their fixed cost and variable costs with the fees charged for that design only. When dealing with a firm that does design in-house, those fixed costs are spread over numerous product offerings including design. That makes for a less expensive project overall.
Second, if a signage manufacturer has design capabilities in-house (or vice versa), they are better able to consider the nuances of production thereby designing a product that makes production more efficient. More efficient production means a better usage of raw materials and machinery and labor, resulting in lower cost. I’ve talked to many sign company owners who have been asked to build a sign designed by a design only firm. While these products look fantastic on paper, They can be very difficult to build without the right consideration in place during design. Nothing is worse than having a customer fall in love with a design only to find out that it can’t be built or that is going to be very costly.
Design for Trouble-Free InstallationsLastly, design build companies are also able to consider construction and installation nuances at the design stage. This alleviate many of the issues that installers encounter when they go on site to install a project in an area that does not have easy access. It also allows the signage company to work hand-in-hand with the architect and construction or project manager to facilitate timing to ensure the most efficient installation. Again, if the installation cost at a minimum
Ultimately, if you are working with a company that can do all of the above, you are certain to gain the cost efficiencies that can only come with having all of these areas of expertise under one roof. So the next time you are considering a detail design project for your visual communication signage, look for a company that is able to do the entire package. You will likely find that your cost will be lower and your satisfaction will be higher.
