Signage vs Signboard: Which One Is The Correct One?

When it comes to advertising, the right choice of words can make all the difference. Two terms that are often used interchangeably in the industry are signage and signboard. But which one is the correct term to use? The answer is that it could be both, depending on the context. However, there are some differences between the two that are worth noting.

Signage refers to any kind of visual graphics created to convey information to a particular audience. This can include signs, posters, banners, and billboards. Signage is often used to promote a product or service, provide directions, or convey important safety information. On the other hand, a signboard specifically refers to a large board or sign that is used to display information or advertisements. Signboards are often found in public spaces like airports, train stations, and shopping malls.

Now that we have a better understanding of the difference between signage and signboard, let’s take a closer look at why it’s important to choose the right type of advertising for your business.

Define Signage

Signage refers to any visual graphics or displays that are designed to convey information to a particular audience. This can include signs, posters, banners, and other forms of visual communication that are intended to provide direction, information, or advertising messages to people in a specific location.

Signage can be used in a wide variety of settings, including retail stores, airports, hospitals, and public spaces. It is often used to help people navigate through a particular area or to provide them with important information about a particular product or service.

Define Signboard

A signboard is a type of signage that is typically larger and more prominent than other types of signs. It is often used for advertising purposes and can be found in a variety of locations, including on buildings, along roadsides, and in public spaces.

Signboards are typically made from durable materials, such as metal or plastic, and are designed to withstand the elements. They can be illuminated or non-illuminated, depending on the specific needs of the advertiser or the location where the signboard is being used.

Unlike other forms of signage, signboards are often used to promote a particular product or service rather than to provide information or direction to a particular audience.

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

When it comes to signage and signboards, it’s important to use the correct terminology in your writing. Here’s a brief guide on how to properly use these words in a sentence:

How To Use “Signage” In A Sentence

“Signage” refers to a collection of signs that are used to convey information or promote a business. Here are some examples of how to use “signage” in a sentence:

• The new store has beautiful signage that catches the eye.
• The signage in the museum was clear and easy to follow.
• Effective signage can help increase foot traffic to your business.

As you can see, “signage” is typically used to refer to a group of signs rather than a single sign. It’s also commonly used in the context of advertising and marketing.

How To Use “Signboard” In A Sentence

“Signboard” refers to a single board or panel that displays information or advertising. Here are some examples of how to use “signboard” in a sentence:

• The signboard outside the restaurant advertised daily specials.
• The company’s logo was prominently displayed on the signboard.
• He painted a signboard for the local farmer’s market.

As you can see, “signboard” is typically used to refer to a single sign rather than a collection of signs. It’s also commonly used in the context of outdoor advertising and storefronts.

By using these words correctly in your writing, you can effectively convey your message and avoid confusion. Whether you’re discussing a single sign or a collection of signs, “signage” and “signboard” are the proper terms to use.

More Examples Of Signage & Signboard Used In Sentences

In order to better understand the differences between signage and signboard, it can be helpful to see how they are used in real-life situations. Below are some examples of both terms used in sentences.

Examples Of Using Signage In A Sentence

• The new store had bright and eye-catching signage that drew in customers.
• The airport had clear signage directing passengers to their gates.
• The museum’s signage provided informative descriptions of the exhibits.
• The city council voted to update the signage in the downtown area.
• The hotel’s signage was so poorly designed that many guests had trouble finding the entrance.
• The shopping mall’s signage was so overwhelming that it was difficult to navigate.
• The restaurant’s signage was simple and elegant, matching the interior decor.
• The theme park’s signage was designed to be fun and playful, appealing to families with young children.
• The university’s signage was designed to be accessible and easy to read for students with disabilities.
• The hospital’s signage was color-coded to help patients and visitors find their way around.

Examples Of Using Signboard In A Sentence

• The real estate agent placed a signboard in front of the house for sale.
• The construction crew put up a signboard to warn drivers of the road closure.
• The political candidate’s signboard was placed on a busy street corner to gain visibility.
• The movie theater’s signboard listed the showtimes for the day.
• The car dealership’s signboard advertised their latest sales promotion.
• The school’s signboard displayed the daily lunch menu and upcoming events.
• The gas station’s signboard displayed the current prices for gasoline and diesel.
• The museum’s signboard listed the hours of operation and admission fees.
• The park’s signboard provided a map of the trails and picnic areas.
• The store’s signboard displayed the store hours and holiday closures.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to visual communication, the terms signage and signboard are often used interchangeably. However, this is a common mistake that can lead to confusion and miscommunication. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using Signage And Signboard Interchangeably

The most common mistake people make is using signage and signboard interchangeably. While both terms refer to visual communication tools, they have different meanings. Signage refers to a collection of signs that are used to convey information, while signboard refers to a single sign that is mounted on a board or structure.

For example, a shopping mall may have signage that includes multiple signs for different stores, directions, and services. However, each individual sign within that collection is a signboard. Using these terms interchangeably can lead to confusion and miscommunication, especially in professional settings.

Assuming Signage And Signboard Have The Same Functionality

Another common mistake is assuming that signage and signboard have the same functionality. While both are used for visual communication, they serve different purposes. Signage is used to provide information, directions, and guidance, while signboard is used to display a message or brand identity.

For instance, a signboard may display the name and logo of a business, while signage may provide information on the business’s hours of operation, location, and services. Understanding the differences between signage and signboard can help you use them more effectively.

Not Considering The Context

One of the biggest mistakes people make is not considering the context in which signage and signboard are used. Different contexts require different types of visual communication tools, and using the wrong tool can lead to confusion and miscommunication.

For example, a signboard that is appropriate for a retail store may not be appropriate for a hospital. In a hospital setting, signage that provides clear directions and information is more important than branding or marketing messages. Understanding the context in which signage and signboard are used is crucial for effective visual communication.

Tips To Avoid These Mistakes

Here are some tips to help you avoid making these common mistakes:

• Be clear about the purpose of your visual communication tool before choosing between signage and signboard.
• Consider the context in which your visual communication tool will be used.
• Use signage for providing information and guidance, and signboard for displaying a message or brand identity.
• Ensure that your visual communication tool is clear, concise, and easy to understand.

Context Matters

When it comes to choosing between signage and signboard, context is key. The decision should be based on the environment, the purpose of the sign, and the intended audience.

Environmental Context

The environment in which the sign will be placed is an important factor in deciding whether to use signage or a signboard. For example, if the sign is to be placed outdoors, it needs to be durable and able to withstand harsh weather conditions. In this case, a signboard made of sturdy materials like metal or plastic may be the better choice. On the other hand, if the sign is to be placed indoors, a more visually appealing signage option may be more appropriate.

Purpose Of The Sign

The purpose of the sign is another important consideration. If the sign is intended to provide directions or convey information, then a signage option may be more suitable. Signage can be customized to include text, graphics, and symbols that are easy to understand and follow. However, if the sign is intended to promote a product or service, a signboard may be more effective. Signboards can be designed to be eye-catching and attention-grabbing, making them ideal for advertising purposes.

Intended Audience

The intended audience also plays a role in the decision between signage and signboard. If the sign is meant for a general audience, then a signage option may be more appropriate. Signage can be designed to be easily understood by people of all ages and backgrounds. However, if the sign is intended for a specific audience, such as a particular demographic or industry, a signboard may be more effective. Signboards can be customized to appeal to a specific audience and convey a targeted message.

Examples Of Different Contexts

Context	Signage or Signboard?
Airport	Signage
Retail Store	Signboard
Office Building	Signage
Construction Site	Signboard

As shown in the table above, the choice between signage and signboard can vary depending on the context. In an airport, signage is necessary to provide clear directions for passengers. In a retail store, signboards can be used to promote sales and discounts. In an office building, signage can be used to identify different departments and offices. And on a construction site, signboards can be used to convey safety information and warnings.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the use of signage and signboards may seem straightforward, there are some exceptions to the rules that should be identified. Here are some cases where the rules for using signage and signboard might not apply:

1. Historical Significance

In some cases, the historical significance of a sign or signboard may outweigh the need for conformity to modern standards. For example, a vintage neon sign may be preserved and displayed as a piece of art, even if it does not meet current signage regulations. Another example is a sign on a historic building that is protected by preservation laws and cannot be altered or removed.

2. Cultural Significance

In some cultures, certain symbols or images may hold significant meaning and may be used in signage or signboards even if they do not conform to standard regulations. For example, a sign for a Chinese restaurant may feature a dragon, which is a symbol of good luck and prosperity in Chinese culture.

3. Unique Branding

Some businesses may choose to use unique branding elements in their signage or signboards in order to stand out from competitors. For example, a company may use a distinctive font or color scheme that does not conform to standard regulations, but is still recognizable and memorable to customers.

4. Temporary Signage

In some cases, temporary signage may be allowed even if it does not conform to standard regulations. For example, a construction site may use temporary signage to indicate detours or road closures, even if the signage does not meet standard size or placement requirements.

5. Emergency Situations

In emergency situations, signage and signboards may be used in non-standard ways in order to convey important information quickly and effectively. For example, a sign indicating the location of a fire extinguisher may be placed in a non-standard location if it is the most visible and accessible location in an emergency situation.

While these exceptions may allow for some flexibility in the use of signage and signboards, it is important to remember that safety and clarity should always be a top priority. When in doubt, it is best to consult with a professional to ensure that all signage and signboards are in compliance with regulations and best practices.

Practice Exercises

Now that we have discussed the differences between signage and signboard, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test. Below are some practice exercises to help you improve your understanding and use of these terms in sentences. Make sure to read the instructions carefully and choose the correct option.

Exercise 1

Choose the correct term to complete the sentence:

1. The new ___________ outside the store is eye-catching and informative.
2. The ___________ on the highway was difficult to read from a distance.
3. He was able to find the restaurant easily thanks to the clear ___________.

Answer key:

1. signage
2. signboard
3. signage

Exercise 2

Choose the correct term to complete the sentence:

1. The company hired a designer to create a new ___________ for their brand.
2. The ___________ on the building was old and faded.
3. She followed the ___________ to find the nearest restroom.

Answer key:

1. signboard
2. signage
3. signage

By completing these exercises, you should have a better understanding of the differences between signage and signboard and how to use them correctly in sentences.

Conclusion

After exploring the differences and similarities between signage and signboards, it is clear that these terms are often used interchangeably but actually refer to distinct concepts. Signage refers to a broad category of visual communication that includes signs, symbols, and other elements used to convey information. Signboards, on the other hand, specifically refer to a type of sign that is affixed to a structure or mounted on a post.

It is important to understand the difference between these two terms in order to use them correctly and effectively in communication. When choosing between signage and signboards, it is important to consider the context and purpose of the communication, as well as the audience and the desired outcome.

Key Takeaways

• Signage and signboards are often used interchangeably, but they refer to distinct concepts.
• Signage is a broad category of visual communication that includes signs, symbols, and other elements used to convey information.
• Signboards specifically refer to a type of sign that is affixed to a structure or mounted on a post.
• The choice between signage and signboards should be based on the context, purpose, audience, and desired outcome of the communication.

By understanding the differences and similarities between signage and signboards, you can make more informed decisions about how to communicate effectively and efficiently. Whether you are designing a marketing campaign, creating wayfinding signage, or simply trying to convey information to your audience, taking the time to consider your options and choose the right approach can make all the difference.

So, keep learning about grammar and language use, and continue to explore the nuances of communication to become a more effective communicator.