In the signage industry, it’s a well-known reality that signs are often the last items to be produced and installed. Whether it’s for a stadium, a public building, or a multi-story office tower, interior signage—especially wayfinding signs—frequently becomes a last-minute addition. This trend extends even to trade shows within the signage industry itself.
The Challenge of Last-Minute Signage
Such was the case in March 2017, when Park Place Signs was called upon to deliver last-minute signage solutions for the International Sign Association (ISA) trade show in Las Vegas.
The Request: A Tight Deadline for Custom Signs
“Nova Polymers called me on a Thursday, asking for two 30 x 40-inch signs for ISA, that had to be on-site in about a week,” recalls Bill Baker, owner and president of Park Place Signs in Hannibal, Missouri. The signs, which were in-kind donations from Nova Polymers, needed to include an exhibitor list with booth numbers and a map of the show floor. These were critical to helping attendees navigate the event. However, the “last-minute rule” was in full effect, as the finalized floor map and lists were not immediately available.
The Solution: Leveraging Novacryl for High-Quality Results
Despite the tight timeline, Park Place Signs delivered outstanding results by utilizing Novacryl materials to create a unique and professional look. “The Nova team asked that we use Novacryl materials to give the two signs a unique look with raised text,” says Baker.
After analyzing the materials and design requirements, the team concentrated on using raised text and vibrant colors for the headers and footers to ensure they stood out. The production process included:
- Processing the Novacryl material.
- Applying custom paint techniques for enhanced visual appeal.
- Incorporating digital printing and a protective coating.
- Completing the entire project in just three days.
Unique Features: A Step Above Standard Signage
What set these signs apart was the combination of innovative materials and design techniques. Park Place used 1/8-inch photopolymer to raise the headers and footers above the surface, then applied contrasting colors with a proprietary paint process. “We tipped in multiple colors on the raised text, put in raised rectangles and squares, and also integrated a photograph,” says Baker.
Compared to other exhibitor lists and maps, which were entirely flat due to full digital printing, Park Place’s signs offered a more dynamic and polished appearance—a perfect fit for showcasing at a premier industry event like ISA.
Delivering Under Pressure: The Park Place Advantage
While the ISA project presented significant time constraints, Baker acknowledges that such scenarios are not uncommon in the signage business. “It’s really not that much out of the ordinary,” he says. “We have solid support from our employees, excellent partnerships with suppliers like Nova Polymers and Matthews Paint, and advanced equipment that allows us to consistently produce high-end signs.”
Park Place has adapted to the industry’s fast-paced nature by developing efficient techniques and fostering strong supplier relationships. “It can take three years to put up a building, but no one thinks about the signs until a week before the occupancy permit is needed. Then they call us!” says Baker. “We have the team and the tools to give our customers what they need, when they need it.”
Results: High-Impact Signs Delivered On Time
Thanks to Park Place’s expertise and commitment to excellence, the custom signs were delivered to the ISA trade show on schedule. The raised text and vibrant design elements enhanced the usability and visual appeal of the signs, setting them apart from other contributions at the event. This case demonstrates Park Place’s ability to deliver last-minute signage solutions without compromising on quality.
Why Last-Minute Signage Solutions Matter
The ISA trade show project highlights the critical role of last-minute signage solutions in the signage industry. By combining innovative materials like Novacryl with advanced production techniques, companies like Park Place Signs can meet tight deadlines while exceeding client expectations. Whether for trade shows, public buildings, or corporate campuses, the ability to deliver high-quality signs on demand is a testament to expertise and adaptability in the field.
Partner with Nova Polymers for Exceptional Signage Solutions
Elevate Your Projects with Last-Minute Signage Solutions
Architects and sign fabricators trust Nova Polymers to deliver cutting-edge materials like Novacryl for impactful, ADA-compliant signage. Whether you’re racing against a deadline or planning ahead, Nova Polymers ensures superior quality and durability in every project.
