The first phase in the design process is the planning stage. Identifying a family of sign types enables the designers to clarify the end user requirements, needs and functionality of the signage.
Wayfinding determines primary and secondary navigation, entry points, decision points and flow around/within the site. A sign type hierarchy will typically consist of directional and identification signage for pedestrian and vehicular use.
The concept stage of the design process starts with hand drawn ideation and sketching. These sketches are then refined and translated into a cad based environment and either presented as 2d or 3d drawings for client approval.
Cad based programs used to illustrate design intent to clients include, 3D Studio Max, Solidworks, Sketch-up, Auto Cad and the Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator).
Documentation of the signage involves highly detailed cad drawings. These drawings are supplied to the sign manufacturer and specify all materials, finishes, fabrication details and overall design aesthetic.