Less Is More

When it comes to signs, there’s one golden rule: keep it simple.

It doesn’t matter if it's  a roadside sign, billboard, or a digital screen, people only have a few seconds to take it in. That means the less clutter, the better.

We’ve all seen those signs packed with text, phone numbers, websites, and half a dozen graphics. Yes we need to get everything on that message but be honest, did you stop and read all of it? Probably not. Most people just glance and move on. A sign that tries to say everything usually ends up saying nothing.

Simple Signs Get Remembered

Here’s the trick: your message should be clear in three to five seconds. That’s all the time someone walking or driving by will give you. A short, bold phrase is easier to read, easier to remember, and way more effective than a wall of text.

Think about it:

“Big Sale Today” sticks.

“Stop. Shop. Save.” is snappy.

Tips for a Less-Is-More Sign

• Pick one main message—what do you want people to do? Stop in? Call? Check out a sale?

•  Keep your text short—five to seven words max.

•  Test it: if someone can’t get the message driving past at 40 km/h, it’s too busy.

A simple sign grabs attention, delivers the message fast, and sticks in people’s minds. And really, that’s all a sign needs to do.