How to Build a Signage Schedule
A well prepared signage schedule helps project teams coordinate, price and deliver a successful signage package. It provides a clear record of every sign required, where it is located, how it should be manufactured and how it contributes to the overall wayfinding strategy.
On many projects, the signage schedule is one of the last elements to be developed. This often leads to missing sign types, coordination issues, additional costs and programme delays.
By developing a signage schedule early, project teams can improve coordination, reduce risk and ensure the finished building delivers a clear and intuitive experience for everyone using it.
What is a signage schedule?
A signage schedule is a comprehensive register of every sign required throughout a building or site. It acts as the reference document for designers, contractors and signage manufacturers.
Include the following information in your signage schedule:
- Sign reference number
- Sign type
- Location
- Dimensions
- Materials and finishes
- Colours
- Text and graphics
- Braille and tactile requirements
- Illumination requirements
- Fixing method
- Quantity
Depending on the project, the schedule may also include photographs, floor plan references, artwork numbers or manufacturing notes.
Start with the building users
Before creating any sign types, consider how different people will use the building.
Ask questions such as:
- Where will visitors first arrive?
- Which routes will staff use every day?
- Are there separate public and staff only areas?
- Will emergency escape routes be clearly identifiable?
- Does the building require accessible navigation?
Understanding user journeys helps create a logical wayfinding strategy before individual signs are specified.
Identify every category in your signage schedule
Many projects focus on directional signs but overlook the wider signage package.
A complete schedule may include:
- External directional signage
- Building identification
- Reception signage
- Internal wayfinding
- Room identification
- Department directories
- Fire safety signage
- Mandatory and statutory signage
- Accessible and tactile signage
- Glass manifestations
- Wall graphics
- Feature signage
- Traffic management signage
- Car park signage
Considering the full package from the outset reduces omissions later in the project.
Create a clear sign family
Group similar signs into standard sign families.
For example:
A – Room identification
B – Directional signs
C – Projecting signs
D – Fire action notices
E – External post mounted signs
Standardising sign families simplifies manufacturing, installation and future maintenance while maintaining a consistent appearance throughout the building.
Coordinate with other trades
Coordinate signage with multiple disciplines to include:
- Interior designers
- Architects
- M&E consultants
- Fire consultants
- Accessibility consultants
- Fit out contractors
This avoids conflicts with services, wall finishes, lighting, glazing and architectural features before installation begins.
Review the signage schedule before tender
Before issuing your project for tender, make sure your schedule includes:
- Every sign location identified
- Consistent sign references
- Quantities confirmed
- Materials specified
- Accessibility requirements included
- Statutory signage identified
- External signage incorporated
- Glass manifestations scheduled
- Installation requirements noted
A complete schedule allows contractors to price accurately, coordinate efficiently and reduce variations.
Need help developing a signage schedule?
Norsign supports architects, contractors and developers with signage schedules, wayfinding strategies, NBS documents, design development and technical support from the earliest stages of a project.
If you’re planning a new development or refurbishment, our team can help produce a coordinated signage schedule that supports accurate pricing, straightforward manufacture and efficient installation. Call us on 01698 713399 or by emailing hello@norsign.co.uk
