After walking through this scenario in Times Square, I asked some people if any one message stood out in their memory, to which they each replied “no”.  There was no “take away” message, no “call to action” that stuck in their minds after being exposed to this cluster of signage.  Too many messages competing with one another do not result in a communication delivered to your audience.

When you are considering signage, or where to place a sign, take into account the surroundings it will be viewed in.  You don’t have to be considering a location like Times Square in New York.  Even if you are designing signage for a tradeshow at a hotel or large hall venue, consider the competing signage and messaging that will exist there.

Design something that stands out amongst the visual noise.  Don’t just look at a design proof of your sign by itself only, but place it against a photo background of similar noise and distraction.  This will help you see what needs to be done to get your message seen against a busy background.