Signposts Blog

by ISA member Greg Beyerl, CEO of Sign Craft Industries, Indianapolis, Indiana

I am very excited to announce my appointment to the International Sign Association (ISA) Government Relations Committee for 2010.

The ISA has a long and impressive history of advocating for the sign industry. The sign companies, service providers, end users and the community at large benefit from the diligent work of the ISA. The ISA represents the industry before the U.S. Congress and federal regulatory bodies and tracks and responds to sign code issues at the local and state levels.

The Government Relations committee seeks to improve the understanding of the social and economic value of signs through an improved regulatory, legislative and case law environment. Its objectives are to support the advancement of sign rights; increase ISA's visibility and influence with the federal and state governments; increase communication and education to improve the understanding of the value of signage; enhance the ability of ISA to track and fight restrictive sign codes throughout the country; and improve upon knowledge base of attorneys and other professions relevant to the sign industry.

The current environment in several areas of the country, including Indiana, is to limit signage for aesthetic reasons. I am very concerned by this trend. The sign industry has the responsibility to educate and council local, state and federal communities on the value of signs and the rights of business to use this most valuable form of advertising.

Limitations on signage for aesthetic reasons could and does limit a business's ability to present a unique and recognizable message that is valuable to the business and potential customers. In addition, we have found that limitations on size, font, color and height can also pose a safety hazard. If a potential customer cannot find the business due to a lack of signage visibility, their eyes will wander from the road, becoming a hazard to themselves and others. This concept is no different or less dangerous than texting while driving.

Sign Craft joined the ISA because the ISA is the advocate for the sign industry. I joined the Government Relations committee because I see a real threat to our industry and also the communities at large resulting from restrictive sign codes. It is our responsibility to get involved and become part of the solution.

Below is a link to Vital Sign - Vibrant Communities Video that was produced by the ISA. It does a very good job of showing the value of signage in our everyday lives.