Signs of the Times: 7 Myths About Modern Signage That Need..

Introduction

When most people think of signs, their mind jumps to the obvious—big letters above a storefront or arrows pointing to the restrooms. But the world of signage has evolved far beyond the basics, and yet, outdated ideas about what signs do (and how they should look) still linger.

In reality, signs are multi-functional tools that blend branding, compliance, architecture, and human psychology. Whether you're a facility manager planning a new development or a business owner updating interiors, understanding the truth about signage helps avoid costly missteps.

Below, we break down seven of the most common signage myths—and what the reality looks like in today’s environments.

Myth 1: “Signs Are Just for Decoration”

Reality: While signs contribute to aesthetics, their core function is utility.

Every sign serves a purpose. It identifies, informs, directs, or ensures compliance. Without proper sign design, even the most attractive signage can confuse users or violate regulations.

ADA signs, for instance, might look simple, but their placement, tactile features, contrast, and height are all regulated to assist individuals with disabilities. Ignoring those rules for the sake of design can mean fines—and poor accessibility.

At their best, signs achieve both: visual harmony and functional clarity.

Myth 2: “Once the Sign Is Designed, the Hard Work Is Done”

Reality: Design is just step one—sign install is where many projects succeed or fail.

You can have a beautifully crafted sign, but if it’s installed too high, too low, or in the wrong lighting conditions, it loses its impact. Worse, poorly installed signs can pose safety risks or fail to meet code requirements.

Professional installation ensures that mounting systems, surface compatibility, and visibility are all addressed. It also prevents common issues like uneven placement, improper anchoring, or signs being blocked by architectural elements.

This is where hiring an experienced sign company truly matters—not just to design, but to execute.

Myth 3: “All ADA Signs Look the Same”

Reality: ADA signs must follow guidelines, but they don’t have to be boring.

Modern ADA-compliant signage can be integrated into broader branding efforts. You can choose colors, materials, and shapes that reflect your identity, as long as tactile lettering, braille, and contrast requirements are still met.

A strong sign company understands how to merge compliance with creativity—ensuring your environment is both inclusive and on-brand.

It’s about building accessibility into your visual language, not slapping on afterthoughts.

Myth 4: “Digital Signs Are Replacing Physical Ones”

Reality: Digital signage is growing—but physical signs are still essential.

Screens are great for rotating content, live updates, or events. But they can’t replace static signs that provide consistent, reliable information.

Imagine a visitor needing restroom directions during a digital screen reboot—or a fire exit sign that goes dark in a power outage. Regulatory signage, ADA wayfinding, and critical building information still depend on fixed, durable signs that work without power or programming.

In fact, many successful environments blend digital and static signage to meet both needs. This hybrid approach is where smart sign design really shines.

Myth 5: “A Bigger Sign Is Always Better”

Reality: Bigger doesn’t always mean more effective.

In signage, context is everything. Oversized signs in small lobbies feel overwhelming. Large exterior signs that are out of scale with the architecture can be off-putting or even violate zoning laws.

Good signage is about proportion, placement, and legibility—not just size. Often, a well-placed mid-sized sign with the right font and contrast is more impactful than a billboard-sized graphic.

And for commercial properties, balance is even more important. You want to guide foot traffic, not distract or confuse it.

Myth 6: “Signs Are a One-Time Project”

Reality: Signage is an evolving part of your space.

Businesses change. Tenants shift. Rooms get reassigned. Branding updates over time. That’s why signs should be planned with adaptability in mind.

Modular sign systems, replaceable name plates, or directory panels that allow easy updates are just a few ways to future-proof your signage strategy.

Without this flexibility, businesses end up with mismatched updates, tape-over fixes, or costly redesigns. Long-term thinking during the design and install phase prevents these problems down the road.

Myth 7: “Any Printer Can Make Signs”

Reality: Signage is more than printing—it’s design, compliance, engineering, and installation combined.

There’s a major difference between printing a banner and producing architectural-grade signage that complies with building codes, withstands weather, and integrates with space planning.

Materials need to be evaluated for durability, visibility, and environmental conditions. Installation must meet safety standards and local ordinances. And messaging must align with the user’s spatial and emotional journey.

That’s why working with a dedicated sign company—one that understands every step from planning to execution—is so critical. DesignElement Raleigh, for example, approaches signage not just as print, but as spatial strategy.

Conclusion

Signs are more than just labels—they're systems of communication that shape how people move through and understand spaces.

As technology evolves and accessibility becomes a greater priority, the demand for thoughtful, compliant, and strategically installed signage grows. Falling for myths—like thinking bigger is always better, or assuming ADA signs can’t be stylish—leads to underperforming systems and costly rework.

But when signage is designed, installed, and maintained with care, it becomes an invisible guide that makes every experience easier, safer, and more engaging.

So the next time you pass a sign, think twice. It’s probably doing more than you realize—and if it's not, it might be time to upgrade your assumptions along with your signs.