When vetting potential signage partners in Charlotte, NC, it can be tricky to know which company to trust — especially if you haven’t done business with them before. As you likely know, your decision goes much farther than just the quality of work, after all!
If you’re in need of commercial signage for your business or upcoming event, be sure to ask the following questions prior to choosing a sign company in Charlotte, NC.
This question not only validates that the company can complete your desired project, but also allows you to learn if any part of the process must be outsourced. Not every sign company in Charlotte, NC offers manufacturing, design, maintenance and installation in-house. It’s important that you partner with a full-service vendor who can accommodate each of your needs and ensure the longevity of your project.
Although this may seem like an odd question, be sure to ask how long the company has existed in the Charlotte, NC area. Companies who have been in business for decades not only have a presence in the local community, but also the experience to complete your project on time and within budget. While a newer sign company in Charlotte, NC may offer “competitive” pricing to gain your trust, it’s best to partner with a company that respects your budget and has been around the block a time or two (or three).
In addition, it’s important to know that the company you choose will be around for the full life of your signage. Even with the highest quality materials, your signage will need maintenance from time to time. A sign company that has been in business for over 20 years is likely to be around for the life span of your signage, as opposed to a newer company that may not be!
Speaking of experience, make sure to ask your potential signage partner for a list of references. Any company can promise a successful project, but not every company has a repertoire of happy customers to refer to.
Don’t hesitate to do your own research, too! Review the company’s website, social media and Google My Business listing for reviews from previous customers. You’ll quickly gain a clear understanding of the company’s values (or lack thereof) and how they conduct business. If the company cannot produce reliable references, or has a poor review presence online, it’s best to take your business elsewhere.
Although this may not be a deal breaker for your upcoming project, knowing the sign company you choose has other locations outside of Charlotte can come in handy for future work — especially if you enjoy working with them! For larger, event-based businesses that travel around the country, it may be worth vetting a company who can either provide local work in another state, or has the ability to ship your project long-distance.
We cannot stress this enough — effective, collaborative and experienced project managers are a critical component of a successful sign company. If the project is poorly branded, does not match your original vision or is not correctly communicated, that is the fault of the company, not of you. While every sign company in Charlotte, NC may offer project management in some capacity, not all companies provide experienced staff to manage the entirety of the project.
Following the above question, ask not only who will be managing the project, but who within the company will be responsible for the various stages of your project. Many companies use what we call “permanent temps”, or members of their organization who are working full-time, but not fully bought into the success and future of the company. Beware of these situations, as it can lead to mismanagement of your project. Employees with experience and a history at the company are always what to look for!
A good sign company in Charlotte, NC should be able to customize any signage to your liking. Ask what sizes and materials are available, as well as who will be completing the design of the piece. Even if they do not offer in-house design, an experienced project manager can understand your vision and communicate it to the designer.
Does the company handle conception, design, installation and maintenance? Ask them what this process entails, and what you can expect at each stage. Will you be required to remain hands-on throughout the process, or is the project primarily handled by your project manager? You should have an accurate depiction of the timeline and mutual responsibilities prior to choosing a sign company in Charlotte, NC.
This is a big one! While budget is likely a deciding factor, it shouldn’t be your sole determinant. Let us explain.
Just to win your business, a sign company may recommend a lower quality material or smaller size to accommodate your budget. Alternatively, they may also try to sell you on a more specialized material for no other reason than to make a higher profit. Neither of these options are ideal, as you are either left underwhelmed, or overpaying for a sign you didn’t really need.
Instead, trust a sign company in Charlotte, NC that puts the needs, design and purpose of the project before their own pockets. This way, you are presented with a product and price that perfectly align with your vision and fulfill the purpose of your signage.
Take a look at their portfolio to ensure the company has completed other projects that are similar to your own. While going outside of the box is always encouraged, you want to be sure that your next signage partner has previous, relevant experience for your industry and project type. Although a first-timer may appreciate the challenge, your signage may suffer the consequences in the end.
Since 1977, Heritage Signs & Displays have delivered outstanding results for hundreds of happy customers along the East Coast. It has been our pleasure to serve the Charlotte, NC community for the last 13 years, and we look forward to many more decades of creating commercial signage, banners, graphics and more for our clients!
From conception to Sign Installation, our highly-skilled team of project managers will work with you to develop your vision and bring your signage to life. As a full-service Charlotte company, we are proud to accept a variety of projects and customize our work to meet your needs.
If you’re in need of a local Sign Company in Charlotte NC, we invite you to take a look at our portfolio of work and learn more about who we are and why we do what we do! Or, click the button below to request a quote.
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