In the past few years, as I have been helping businesses in Alaska with their signs, I have been watching all the ways people use their Electronic Message Center.

I have compiled a list of do’s & don’ts for that digital sign of yours………

First the Don’ts……..

• No Scrolling messages – this is the least effective way to use your message board
• Don’t put your name up there – You likely already have your name on the permanent sign, why add it here too?
• No Novels – When people are driving by, they have maybe 7 seconds to read your display.
• No Small Text – related to the No Novels, just because you can display 4 lines of copy doesn’t mean you should
• Limit the cutesy stuff – It’s OK to display funny quotes and stuff, but remember, your sign is supposed to draw folks in. If your cute little message offends half of your viewing audience, is that a good use of your money?

Now the Do’s……..

• Change the message frequently – Advertise something new every day, or change the way you say it
• Use the time & temp between messages. I for one will thank you this winter
• Be Specific – Display very specific items you’re trying to sell. If you want to sell more coffee, say that. A real estate company actually lists the houses they have listed on their display to great effect. Specific is Terrific
• Give a call to action – for example you could say “pull in now for ice cold cokes”
• The Price is right – It’s OK to display the price, it may be your cost leader. Who cares if the competition sees it, chances are, they don’t have a cool digital sign like yours.
• Schedule it – Many of the electronic signs include a scheduler in the software. Take advantage of peak traffic, by having the right message ready to display for the rush hour
• As you can see, there are ways to better use your sign. These are just things that I have noticed. Whatever the case, if your message draws in more customers, then it’s done it’s job.

DG’s been proudly serving the Matanuska Valley, Kenai, Fairbanks and Anchorage Areas & with 25+ years experience in the sign industry we can help you solve anything!