Over the course of the last 18 months, our firm has conducted extensive research into the process by which architectural sign programs in North America are designed and implemented. We have reached some interesting conclusions:
1. Architectural sign programs can be divided into two categories: those designed and specified by environmental graphic design (EGD) firms, and those that are not. The overwhelming majority of construction projects requiring signs fall into the second group.
2. Sign programs for most of the projects not designed by EGD firms are specified by architectural designers using a flawed process. The documentation and specifications from the architect are usually poorly crafted, which often results in signage of mediocre design, unpredictable cost, and inferior quality.
3. No stakeholder’s interests are well-served by this situation. Building owners, architects, sign product manufacturers, and architectural sign companies are all adversely affected.
We think it is time to explore a different approach. During the next 90 days, Identia will introduce a new process model that can radically change the equation and lay the groundwork for more effective interaction and collaboration among architects, building owners, EGD firms, and architectural sign specialists.
- Travis Veigas
The Relationship Between Signs and Architecture
The Boston Society of Architects recently awarded the Harleston Parker Award to the Parker Community Rowing Boathouse in Boston, MA. Our firm designed and supplied the signs on the project.
We believe the design character of the signage is instructive: it is restrained, well detailed, and simple. It is also consistent with a design orientation that endorses the idea that signage is a functional background product that should be subordinated to architectural priorities, and which ought to complement architectural features, rather than compete with them.
Click here to read more about the Community Rowing project and our sign design philosphy.
Why is Lousy Signage Often Installed on Well-Designed Buildings?
Our company in the Boston area, like architectural signage firms everywhere, routinely receives bid requests from general contractors for the "signage" subcontract portion of construction projects. Unfortunately, we usually encounter documentation that is so seriously flawed we are unable to prepare an accurate bid.
Here are just a few of the problems we have seen:
1. The signage documentation package normally includes a written spec, but almost never includes drawings, a sign message schedule, or sign location plans.
2. The sign contractor is required to submit construction shop drawings for signage, but is given little information about critical variables such as overall size, typestyle, or graphic layout. In other words, design responsibility for the signage elements is assigned to the signage contractor.
Click here to read more about other sign specification problems and info on a better CSI spec.
ISA International Sign Expo 2010
Booth
Attending the International Sign Expo in Orlando this year? Come visit us at booth 2441 and see the latest developments with Identia Online.
Registration
Not yet registered? You can register for FREE using Identia's promo code at the Sign Expo registration screen. Use the promotional code "ORL" when prompted.
Seminar
Thinking about attending the education sessions? Travis will be delivering a session titled "Using the Design-Build Process for Architectural Sign Projects" on Friday, April 9, 2:30-4:00.
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Identia Sign System
The Identia Sign System is a modular interior sign system that can ordered with standard colors and typefaces, or can be customized for your project.
The Identia Sign System is manufactured and distributed by the Braille-Tac Division of Advance Corporation. Signs can be specified and ordered using Identia Online, or direct from Advance with traditional methods.
Learn more about the Identia Sign System »
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Recent Subscribers
We are pleased to announce the following new subscribers to Identia Online:
Questions? Contact Us!
To find out more about Identia Online or the Identia Sign System, please contact Travis Veigas directly at 781-449-1351 or tveigas@whitneyveigas.com
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