When those in the sign business speak about readability, they are talking about conspicuity. Questions such as the whether the sign is difficult to notice and/or read are typically explained using this terminology. A sign needs to stand out from its visual surroundings in order to be noticed, therefore several factors come into play, including:
⢠Lettering size
⢠Placement or location
⢠Brightness
⢠Visual complexity (environmental factors)
⢠Peripheral vision status
⢠Font style
⢠Clarity of shapes and forms
⢠Moving or flashing elements
⢠Unique sign features
Besides the font selection it is important to focus on making the letters, forms and shapes as readable as possible. By using color contrast one can add to the signâs effectiveness. Attention to the color of the substrate material and making sure that there is a strong enough contrast is critical or the sign will âwashâ into the background. View the chart below for some guidance regarding contrasting colors.
