2.2 Use of the Legibility Chart

The above chart shows the distances (maximum legibility distances) and their recommended letter heights (upper or lower case), under different viewing conditions.

The first step in using the legibility chart is to determine the distance from the viewer to the identification product. Once the distance is defined, check to see where it falls on the legibility chart. This will give one an idea of the letter height needed for either the ideal readable distance or the maximum readable distance.

Now that the letter height is determined for legibility, let’s move on to font. 

2.3 Typography

The chosen font effects the readability of the sign. Certain types of fonts are clear and easy-to-read from a distance, while others are difficult to read no matter how much the viewer squints at the sign. Which fonts send a clear message to the reader while others fail? To answer the question, we need to know what are the font types available. In the world of typography, there are generally 2 types of fonts, i.e. Serif and Sans Serif.

“Serifs” or “Serif fonts” have small features on the ends of strokes. Serifs were believed to have originated in the Latin Alphabet with words carved into stone in Roman Antiquity. The Roman letter outlines were first painted onto stone, and the stone carvers followed the brush marks, which flared at stroke ends and corners, creating serifs. Serif fonts are usually used in lengthy text, such as books, newspapers, and most magazines and are the most commonly used printed typestyle due to perceived readability. After all, when one strives to create something beautiful and remarkable to look at, the main goal is to have the message clear and readable.

Those without the small features are called “Sans-Serifs” or “San-Serif Fonts.” Sans-serif letters began to appear in printed media as early as 1805. They were popular due to their clarity and legibility in advertising and display use when printed very large or very small. Sans-serif fonts have become the most prevalent for displaying text on computer screens, partly because screens tend to struggle to show fine serif details in small type.

Below are examples of Serif and San Serif fonts:

Examples of Serif fonts

• Times New Roman,
• Georgia,
• Palatino
• Garamond

Examples of Sans Serif fonts

• Arial,
• Helvetica,
• Tahoma

Hot Tip: For other shorter text settings – such as titles, credits, column headings, as well as text in infographics – a Sans-serif typeface is a good choice. Its simplified letterforms are unencumbered by Serifs, which can impede the readability of characters at very small sizes.

Once the suitable font is chosen for the sign, it is time to choose colors that will help the sign stand out. 

2.4 Color Schemes

(See Tips for creating beautiful and effective design that makes the most of spot colors)

Beside the right choice of letter height and font, the sign is not easily read if the wrong colors are chosen. Color is also a key factor in sign visibility. It is important to pick a contrasting color scheme to make sure the letters on the sign stand out.

One popular high-contrast scheme for signs is white lettering against a dark, colored background. This is a great choice because it’s highly visible from afar and easy-to-read. 

Here are some other color combinations to consider.

• White or yellow lettering on a black background.
• White or yellow lettering on a dark blue background. 
• Black lettering on a light blue background. 
• Black, dark blue, or red lettering on a yellow background.
• Yellow or white lettering on a red background.

Lastly, one needs to make sure it is position at the right place for maximum visibility.

2.5 For Optimum Visibility Placement

For optimum visibility, signs should be close to the traffic and angled to where they can best meet the eyes of many viewers. Make sure it is in a spot where the most people possible can see it.

Lighting Conditions

Identification products should be placed in areas with plenty of light or with lighting added (especially for nighttime). In most cases, light makes signs easier to see, but sometimes it can actually make it more difficult to make them out. For example, pastel-colored signs (especially with light-colored lettering) may have reduced visibility when light hits the graphic. Signs with darker colors and contrast fare better in areas with lots of lighting.

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Selected articles for reading below:

MA2: Tips for creating beautiful and effective design that makes the most of spot colors.

MD7: How to prepare print-ready files