Understanding Interior Signage Timelines: What to Expect

When it comes to designing, manufacturing, and installing interior signage, one of the most common questions clients ask is, “How long will it take?” While every project is different, understanding the timelines involved can help you set realistic expectations and plan your space effectively. Interior signage can be complex, involving various stages such as design, approval, manufacturing, and installation, all of which contribute to the overall timeline.

Design and Concept Development (1-4 weeks)

The first stage of any interior signage project is the design phase. This step involves:

• Consultation and brainstorming: During this stage, you and the signage expert will discuss the purpose of the signs, branding elements, materials, colors, and placement. If you have any specific ideas or inspirations, this is the time to share them.
• Initial design concepts: Based on your input, the design team will create multiple drafts of the signage. Expect some back and forth during this process as adjustments are made to ensure the final product reflects your brand’s vision and the functionality of the space.

This phase typically lasts 1-2 weeks but can be longer if additional revisions are needed.

Approval Process (1 week)

Once the design is finalized, it’s time for approvals. Depending on your organization’s structure, you may need approvals from several stakeholders, which can add time to the process. It’s crucial to have a clear internal communication plan to speed up this step.

• Internal review: Ensure the design aligns with brand guidelines and is functional for the intended purpose.
• Compliance checks: Some signage may require local permits or adherence to building codes, particularly in commercial or healthcare environments. Your signage provider should help navigate these requirements.

The approval process typically takes around 1 week but may vary depending on your company’s internal structure.

Manufacturing and Production (3-6 weeks)

After approvals, the signage goes into production. The timeline for manufacturing depends on several factors:

• Materials: Custom materials or specialized finishes can add time to production. For example, signs with complex LED integration or high-end finishes will take longer than simple vinyl graphics.
• Quantity and complexity: Larger orders or intricate designs will naturally require more production time.

On average, production can take 4 weeks, though custom or intricate designs may extend this timeline.

Installation (1-2 weeks)

Once the signage is manufactured, the final step is installation. This process typically takes 1-2 weeks, depending on the number of signs, their locations, and the complexity of the installation. Installation teams work to ensure everything is safely and securely mounted and fully functional, particularly for illuminated or digital signage.

Factors That Can Affect Timelines

• Changes during the design phase: Frequent changes can add considerable time to the overall process.
• Permitting delays: If your signage requires permits, any delays in approval will extend the timeline.
• Material availability: If the material for your signage is not readily available, it may cause a delay in production.

In conclusion, the typical timeline for an interior signage project ranges from 6-11 weeks, depending on factors like complexity, approvals, and material choices. Understanding the phases and potential delays allows for better planning and ensures the project goes smoothly.