At Fluid, we understand that effective signage is a vital component of your brand’s identity and communication strategy. With over 20 years of experience and a diverse portfolio of signage projects, we excel at creating comprehensive signage systems tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients across various sectors, including government, retail, corporate, and hospitality.
Our signage design process is structured to ensure clarity, creativity, and consistency at each stage, ultimately leading to a successful outcome for your brand. Here’s how we approach the project:
- Audit: We start by conducting a thorough audit of your current signage guidelines, background materials, and existing site signage. This initial assessment helps us identify areas for improvement and develop a preferred approach. We also facilitate a meeting or workshop with your stakeholder group to discuss insights and align on goals. To streamline the process, we typically recommend visiting six key sites in or around the metropolitan area.
- Creative Development: In this phase, we focus on developing a master style in collaboration with your in-house graphic designer and key stakeholders. It’s essential to explore the entire signage system, considering all possible sign types, from functional and operational signage to engaging marketing displays. We present three distinct design concepts for your feedback, encouraging innovation and exploring new ideas, such as the integration of QR codes and other interactive features.
- Concept Refinement: After receiving feedback on the initial concepts, we refine the preferred design. This stage allows for two rounds of revisions to ensure the design meets your needs and effectively communicates your brand identity.
- Design Development: Once the concept is approved, we proceed with detailed design development. This includes the creation of artwork templates for various sign types—approximately ten different templates—encompassing interpretive and informational signage, such as maps and illustrations. These templates will be handed over to you as individual layered Adobe Illustrator files.
- Documentation: We then create a comprehensive signage standards manual, evolving your current guidelines to include approximately 70 pages detailing character limits (including multilingual considerations), dimensions, graphics, and artwork specifications. This document will also reference relevant Australian standards for signage, ensuring compliance and quality.
- Final Review and Approval: We allocate time for a final review of all designs and documentation. This ensures that everything aligns with your expectations and that any last-minute adjustments can be made before implementation.
Previous Experience
Fluid has successfully delivered signage solutions for a variety of high-profile projects, showcasing our expertise in creating effective and engaging signage systems. For example, in our work with the Surf Coast Walk, we developed a cohesive signage system that enhanced the visitor experience while maintaining a strong sense of place.
For Melbourne Water, we crafted a complex signage system that addressed the need for consistency and engagement across various sites. Our design emphasized clear messaging and visual appeal, ensuring that the signage effectively communicated the brand’s identity and values.
At Kardinia Park, we designed signage that not only served functional purposes but also enhanced the overall experience for visitors, aligning with the stadium’s status as a premier venue for sports and entertainment. Additionally, we created an inviting and informative signage system for the range of GMHBA Eye Care retail outlets, effectively guiding customers through the space while reinforcing the brand’s commitment to care and quality.
At Fluid, we are dedicated to providing signage solutions that enhance brand visibility, improve user experience, and communicate effectively. Our structured process ensures that every aspect of the signage system is thoughtfully considered, resulting in a cohesive and impactful design that resonates with your audience. Let us help you create a signage system that not only meets your functional needs but also elevates your brand in the marketplace.