Avoiding the 5 Most Common Mistakes in Large Format Signage

Amber Hollier • July 15, 2025

Avoiding the 5 Most Common Mistakes in Large Format Signage

Large format signage is one of the best tools businesses use to grab the attention of their prospects and build brand awareness. This is done through a variety of means, like banners outside your storefront, a trade show backdrop, or a billboard on a busy highway. These displays often serve as the first introduction to any business. However, many companies unknowingly sabotage their signage by making preventable mistakes that hurt readability and impact. These are five of the most common pitfalls we've seen and how to avoid them when planning your next large format print project. If you’re working with a Houston printer, you’ll also have local expertise to help you make the most of your signage investment.


1. Low-Resolution Images

One of the most frequent issues is using images that look crisp on a computer screen but turn blurry and pixelated when enlarged. Large format prints require very high-resolution files to maintain clarity. Always provide original images at the highest resolution possible and avoid pulling graphics from the web. A professional printer can guide you on the ideal DPI (dots per inch) needed for your specific project size.


2. Poor Contrast and Color Choices

Even the most beautiful design will fail if people can’t read it easily. Low-contrast color combinations, such as light gray text on a white background, can disappear from a distance. Consider how your signage will look in different lighting conditions—daylight, shade, or artificial light—and use high-contrast colors that stand out. Test your design at scale to make sure it is easily readable.


3. Ignoring Viewing Distance

Following up on number two, when designing signage, think carefully about where it will be placed and how far away viewers will be. Text that’s legible from five feet away may be unreadable across a parking lot. Use large, bold fonts for headlines and keep copy minimal. As a rule of thumb, the farther away your audience, the simpler your design should be.


4. Overcrowded Design

Trying to include every detail—logo, tagline, phone number, website, and a list of services—can quickly clutter your layout. Visual overload reduces comprehension and impact. Focus on one clear message or call to action. Clean, uncluttered designs are more professional and more likely to be remembered.


5. Skipping Proofing Steps

Finally, never underestimate the importance of thorough proofing. Typos, misaligned elements, or incorrect colors are not only embarrassing but could be costly to fix after printing. Always review your proofs carefully and have at least one other person check them before final approval.


Avoiding these common mistakes when working on your next large format print will help you clearly communicate your message and reflect the quality of your brand. Of course, we highly recommend partnering with an experienced Houston printer who can guide you through each step of the process and create your project the way you have envisioned for it to be.

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Why You’re Not Getting Google Reviews (and How to Fix It)

By Amber Hollier • June 17, 2025
Online reviews are as good as gold for any business. Google Reviews add to your credibility and directly impact how easily potential customers find you online. But here’s the hard truth: many companies struggle to collect reviews, even when they have plenty of happy customers. If your business isn’t getting the reviews you deserve, here’s why...and, more importantly, how to turn that around. 1. You’re Not Asking — Or Not Asking The Right Way It might sound obvious, but a huge reason companies don’t get Google Reviews is simply because they don’t ask. Many satisfied customers assume you don’t need their feedback unless you tell them otherwise. Even worse, if you only ask once and in an inconvenient way, customers are likely to forget. How to Fix It: Make asking for reviews a consistent, simple part of your customer communication. Train your staff to ask after a purchase or successful service. Include a polite, clear request in follow-up emails or invoices. A direct line like, “Your feedback means the world to us — would you mind leaving a quick review?” goes a long way. 2. It’s Too Hard to Leave a Review If your customers have to hunt for your business on Google, find the right link, and log in, you’re asking too much. The more steps involved, the fewer reviews you’ll get. How to Fix It: Create a direct link and/or generate a QR code that goes straight to your Google Review page. Google provides a special URL that takes customers directly to the review box. Add this link to your website, email signature, thank-you pages, front desk, and receipts. The easier you make it, the more likely people are to follow through. 3. You Don’t Follow Up People are busy. Even happy customers forget to leave reviews when life gets in the way. Many businesses ask once and never remind customers again. How to Fix It: Automate a gentle follow-up. Send a reminder a few days after your first request. Use simple, friendly language that expresses genuine appreciation for their time. Tools like email marketing platforms or CRMs can help you schedule this automatically. 4. You’re Not Showcasing Reviews Believe it or not, customers are more likely to leave reviews when they see others doing it. This is a lot like how customers are more likely to leave tips when they see a few dollars already in the tip jar. If your Google profile looks empty, people may feel their effort won’t make a difference. How to Fix It: Highlight existing positive reviews on your website, social media, and in-store signage. This builds trust with potential customers and encourages others to join in. 5. You Don’t Have a Company Culture That Values Reviews Sometimes the problem starts within the business. If your team doesn’t see reviews as a priority, they won’t remember to ask customers consistently. How to Fix It: Make reviews part of your company culture. Celebrate great feedback in team meetings and share positive reviews with your staff. Recognize employees who help generate the most reviews...a little internal competition never hurts! Start Growing! More Google Reviews means more trust, more clicks, and ultimately more business. By making it easy, asking consistently, and showing appreciation, your company can increase their online visibility and credibility. Need printed thank-you cards with a QR code that links straight to your Google Review page? We can help! Bring your happy customers into the heart of your marketing.