When you place a sign outdoors, you're placing it into a completely different environment from a carefully controlled space inside your store. When it's indoors, it doesn't have to compete with other signs or sights for attention. It doesn't have to communicate its message as quickly as possible. It doesn't have to face the hazards of foot traffic and crowded streets. Whatever type of sidewalk sign you choose, you'll need to fundamentally re-evaluate the way you design exhibits in order to get the best performance from your new addition. Although this process can be difficult for a first time designer, putting the effort into it is almost always rewarding.

Step 1: Know Your Options

If you're designing a sidewalk sign for the first time, you should start by learning what options are available to you. If you have never spent time exploring the range, it's easy to make assumptions which may or may not be correct. For instance, you might not know that chalkboard and dry-erase board style exhibits are available, and can in fact be used to great effect outside of a storefront. Learning about the range of different signs will help you as you begin to plan the one your company wants.

Step 2: Know Your Budget

After you've spent some time familiarizing yourself with the various possibilities, you'll need to think more concretely. It's easy to become carried away, and forget that budget is a real issue. Of course, purchasing a single sidewalk sign will take only a small fraction of your budget, but it's still an expense nonetheless. Narrow down your list of possible designs to include only those which fit easily within your budget. A great design can be accomplished at any price point. There is no need to strain your finances.

Step 3: Know Your Goals

The design you create should reflect a very specific, carefully targeted message. The nature of this message will depend on the nature of your business. For example, a restaurant might want something with a chalkboard that can be changed daily if their purpose is to feature specials. If you're more interested in promoting a one-time event, or in simply promoting your business, you might want the sleek look of permanent sidewalk sign graphics.

Step 4: Know Your Setting

This last step is perhaps the most important. No matter how strong your outdoor signs are, their impact can only be measured in reference to what will be around them as they advertise. What are your neighboring companies doing? Do they have outdoor signs as well? Are there many things competing for customer attention, or does your sidewalk sign stand alone? The key is to always distinguish your outdoor signs from the competition, whether that means a competitor's sidewalk sign or natural distractions such as crowds.

Step 5: Trust Your Instincts

Once you've done your research and begun to plan your exhibit, you need to step back and start trusting yourself. Your instincts will be good; all you need to do is let yourself create, plan, and start to build. Certainly double check yourself, but be careful that you're not just second guessing. If you're following your own instincts and remembering these steps, you'll create strong outdoor signs which will represent your business well.