directory boards

Directory boards are a type of directional sign. They are often used outside or inside a building to help people identify the particular location of a business, person or room. If your company is located in a multi-use office building, the directory board may be your first impression with a visitor. In some cases, you might not have a say in the design of the directory board. Ideally, you want to be found easily and for the sign to be neat and pleasing to the eye. Additionally, an office tower that experiences a high turnover rate may prefer a directory board that can be easily updated in-house. Whereas a hospital, that has been built specifically with the spaces of each department in mind, can invest in a directory board with a more permanent design.

When you hear of directory boards, you probably picture the typical black backdrop. You know, the one with the removable labels featuring a non-descript white font. While perfectly serviceable, don’t let your assumptions limit your design choices! There are plenty of ways to customize your directory board to meet your needs and style. Let’s start with the material. Do you want isolated plaques framed on a clear plexiglass sheet? This would create a clean and contemporary look. Or how about an elaborate wooden carved frame? This would be great for a museum or town hall – somewhere with historical significance. Moving on to the directory entries, should they be engraved or embossed? Will your directory board be placed on a wall or will it be a freestanding structure in the middle of the lobby? As you consider your many options, suddenly it becomes clear that a functional sign like a directory board is another piece of marketing for your business. Your visitors will be tempted to think that, if your company puts this much care and detail into their directory board, they’re clearly dedicated and planning to stick around.