Putting up banners and signs at
an event does more than just help attendees find their way through the
facility’s labyrinth of unfamiliar corridors. They give each meeting
a cohesive look and feel, branding the event with its own character.
In the past few years, advanced digital technology
and sheer imagination have expanded the role of event graphics. From
huge banners, displays and backdrops to wraps around tour buses or other
vehicles, colorful signage catches attention and generates excitement.
It also can create more visibility and value for event sponsors, increasing
this revenue source for your organization.
When considering event graphics, it makes sense to
look to the experts. A professional sign maker will work one-on-one
with you to conceptualize the graphics that will meet your needs. They
will review your goals and work with you to come up with ideas for signage
that fits into your budget. In addition, they can free up time for you
to deal with all the other event management details by providing full-service
coordination — meaning they’ll handle everything from planning and printing
to installation and removal.
Designer Look
While preparing visuals for your next meeting or special event, keep
the following tips in mind.
Have a plan. Begin by thinking about
the big picture. What is your objective for this event? Characterize
the average meeting attendee and imagine how graphics could enhance
his overall experience.
Keep it simple but strong. Next,
determine the number of graphics that will compliment your event but
not overwhelm attendees. Then, work collaboratively with your venue
and colleagues to select the best locations to hang the signs, keeping
in mind the routes your attendees will be taking each day. Every graphic
should be positioned to break through the visual clutter, create awareness,
provide the greatest impact and fully maximize marketing and sponsorship
dollars.
Determine the look. Be bold and
imaginative. Select images and creative text that will draw attention
and effectively deliver the messages that are important to the host
organization, your company or client, and any participating sponsors.
Have fun with your graphics and take full advantage of the visibility
they provide to dress up the facility or meeting environment. Carefully
select colors and images that will generate on-site excitement, increase
energy levels and leave lasting impressions.
Use caution, however; organizers and planners often
make the mistake of choosing text, logos or images that are too small
for attendees to see. Graphics and messaging are ineffective if they
cannot be understood easily from a distance. Think “larger than life,”
but be careful not to overpower the event.
Select the products wisely. Whether
it’s an indoor or an outdoor event, a good sign company generally can
develop graphics to fit any location. Grab the attention of the public
and attendees by placing signs at the entrance gate, on the walls, in
parking lots, sidewalks, windows and even on company vehicles. Banners
and signs are no longer limited to standard sizes. Some can be as large
as 105 feet high by 300 feet wide.
Sell, sell, sell. Graphics can provide
a huge source of revenue by attracting sponsorships. Extra-large banners
and displays dramatically increase visibility, and the more visibility
sponsors receive, the “deeper” their pockets might become. Planners
can substantially improve negotiations with potential sponsors by providing
information about the use of graphics to deliver marketing messages
and gain greater exposure. |