We believe exterior signage is so important to plasma center success, we include signage criteria in all our leases.
GETTING EXTERIOR SIGNAGE RIGHT IS CRITICAL TO ATTRACTING MORE DONORS:
Signage that says “professional medical building” without being aloof is the sweet spot for plasma collection centers.
Call today to learn how Stough can improve your exterior signage for a better first impression.
1. What not to do
- Put signs in the windows held up with scotch tape—looks unprofessional
- Advertise the potential for donors to “make money” on or around your building—against the rules
- Ignore your signs—peeling paint is not a good look
- Have conflicting or confusing signs—take down the old before putting up the new
- Block windows with signs—looks like you are hiding something
- Put up pylon signs (signs on poles)—better for gas stations and fast-food restaurants
IT ALL COMES DOWN TO PROFESSIONALIZM. ANYTHING THAT LOOKS UNCARED-FOR OR HASTILY ERECTED DETRACTS FROM YOUR DONOR APPEAL AND PRODUCTION RATES.
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2. What to do
Here are some ways to make the most of your sign real estate:
- Keep signs at the car or pedestrian level
Industry research has shown that plasma center signs above a level readable from a passing car are a waste of money.
- Mount and light signs properly
Nothing looks worse than a leaning or crooked sign, or a letter light out. Check your signs regularly to make sure they covey the professionalism of your operation.
- Choose landmark (monument) signs over pole signs
A monument sign has gravity and says, “We are solid; we are here to stay. You can trust you will be well-cared-for here.” Materials, colors and typefaces can all work together to present an institutional, yet inviting look.
But you don’t have to add signage chores to your plate. All you have to do is call Stough and we will handle everything—from permitting to negotiations with sign companies to correct installation.
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3. A future-now idea
The uber-upper-end of signage is changeable laser light projection billboards on the sides of buildings:
A laser projector, also known as a “show laser,” is a system that allows you to project laser content in a specific area.
These displays can be laser beams, aerial images, artworks, text, graphics, logos, moving images, large-scale projection mapping and interactive light sculptures. 
You may have seen them at festivals, nightclubs, outdoor art shows or other events like the Cincinnati Blink Light Festival.
The cost of light projections has plummeted in recent years. Because of this price drop, businesses have started using the technique on signs. Plasma centers could use them to:
- Share what’s happening at the center (special events or promotions)
- Advertise extra hours or other changes that affect donors
- Let nearby nonprofits make Public Service Announcements (this is a great way to integrate yourself into the community)
A major advantage of these compelling, high-impact signs is the programmed message can change frequently with no effort. Another advantage is their visibility at night.
The Stough team would be happy to explore this evocative new medium with you. It will soon be highly-regulated, so now is the time to get in the game.
Back To TopSUPERIOR EXTERIOR SIGNAGE CAN ATTRACT DONORS, AND GIVE THEM A GOOD FEELING ABOUT VISITING YOUR CENTER. GREAT SIGNAGE COMES WITH EVERY DESIGN/BUILD STOUGH PACKAGE!
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To streamline delivery and control costs, we take a prototype approach when possible, engage local civil engineering consultants for each project, and establish a working relationship with the local governing authority.