Choosing signage is not just about picking a product and adding your logo! There is more to it. The best signage works with your space, visibility, safety requirements, and brand goals. You want it to look professional and perform in the real world, and there are so many ways to do this.
Whether you are fitting out a retail shop, office reception, event stand or construction site, this guide breaks down how to choose signage that fits your environment and delivers impact.
Start with the Space and the Viewing Distance
Before you choose a signage type, clarify two basics:
- Where will people see it? (street, shopfront, foyer, aisle, counter, event space)
- How far away will they be? (close-up reading vs distance visibility)
Rule of thumb: the further the viewing distance, the more you should prioritise larger formats, sharp contrast, and simple messaging. You can customise:
- Outdoor visibility / distance viewing: Outdoor signs and illuminated signage such as lightboxes
- Indoor, close-range messaging: Acrylic signs for reception and internal branding
- Flexible, moveable messaging: A-frames for street frontage and daily updates
Match the Signage Type to the Environment
If your space is a shopfront
You typically need a mix of fixed branding + changeable promotions.
- Window and door decals help you use glass for branding, hours, and promotional messaging =
- Lightboxes support lighting conditions day and night for higher-traffic areas
- A-frames are ideal when you want to promote specials or direct walk-by traffic
If your space is an office or reception
Your signage should feel polished and consistent with your brand.
- Acrylic reception signs create a professional first impression
- Consider wayfinding signage where visitors need clear direction
If your space is retail (in-store navigation and offers)
You want signage that helps people move through your store and notice key messages.
- Posters for campaigns, product highlights, and seasonal promotions
- Floor decals to guide foot traffic, promote offers or reinforce safety messaging
Hosting events, expos, or temporary activations?
Prioritise signage that is portable, quick to install, and repeatable.
- Pull-up banners are fast to set up and easy to transport
- Vinyl banners work well for larger spaces and outdoor event visibility
Prioritise Safety, Placement and Maintenance
Great signage must be visible and maintained, not blocked, damaged, or unsafe. The Australian Government’s signage guidance for funded projects emphasises that signs should be placed close to works, not be obscured, and should be maintained and checked for wear and tear (including damage and graffiti). It also highlights safety issues around placement.
- Avoid placing signs where they will be blocked by other signage or displays
- Use materials and finishes suited to weather, UV, and cleaning
- Plan who will update, clean, and replace signage when promotions change
Choose Materials That Suit the Conditions
Your environment should guide material choice:
- Outdoor exposure: choose signage designed to withstand Australian conditions (sun, wind, rain)
- Foot traffic: floor decals should be durable and designed for busy environments
If you are unsure, Kwik Kopy centres can help recommend options across their signage range.
Make Accessibility and Contrast Part of the Design
Signage is only effective if people can read it quickly. Government brand guidance highlights the importance of contrast and aligning with accessibility expectations (including WCAG-based contrast considerations).
Easy improvements you can apply:
- Use high contrast between text and background
- Keep key messages short and scannable
- Avoid clutter: fewer words, larger type, clearer hierarchy
If You are Using Government Branding or Funding
If your signage relates to projects that require Australian Government branding, the guidance notes that materials involving the Building Australia logo require department clearance, and proofs should be submitted via the listed contact process.
(For general business signage, this is still a useful reminder: approval workflows and proofing matter when signage is public-facing and time-sensitive.)
Kwik Kopy Signage Options to Explore
Kwik Kopy offers signage across common business needs, including:
- Window & door decals
- Floor decals
- Posters
- A-frames
- Lightboxes
- Pull-up banners
- Acrylic signs for reception and internal branding
Browse the full Signage & Displays range to compare formats or read our blog: Why Your Business Still Needs Branded Stationery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What signage works best for small spaces?
For smaller spaces, focus on wall decals, posters, and compact interior signage like acrylic reception signs. These deliver impact without needing large physical footprint.
What signage is best for foot traffic?
A combination usually works best: A-frames to attract attention from the street, window and door decals for key details, and floor decals to guide movement like directional signs.
How do I stop signage from being overlooked?
Placement and contrast matter most. Ensure signage is not obstructed, is maintained, and uses clear, high-contrast design so it is readable quickly.
Contact us for a reliable, fresh signage strategy.
Need Help Choosing Signage for Your Space?
If you know your space but are unsure which promotional signage format will work best, your local Kwik Kopy centre can help you select the right signage type, size, and finish, then produce it with a professional result.
Whether you are hoping to customise wayfinding signs, floor signs, POS displays, neon signs, digital signage, outdoor signage, or have a floor plan for your retail environment, Kwik Kopy know exactly how to get you there.
Request a quote or explore Kwik Kopy’s Signage & Displays range to get started on a signage plan.
