Office directory signs need printed name inserts that are easy to replace when tenants or staff change. We print inserts to fit slide-in directory frames and keep your template on file. Boldmedia Print Zimbabwe makes updates a simple reprint.
An office directory sign lists the tenants, departments or floors in a building so visitors can find where they need to go without asking. It is placed in the main lobby, at lift banks or at the building entrance, and may be wall-mounted, freestanding or built as a totem. Directories for buildings with changing occupants are usually built with interchangeable name strips or slide-in panels.
A good directory is organised logically (alphabetically or by floor), uses consistent type at a readable size, and is easy to update when tenants move. It differs from a wayfinding system in that it lists who is where at a single decision point, while wayfinding signs guide people along the route once they know where they are going.
Where it works well
- Main lobbies of multi-tenant office buildings
- Lift lobbies listing floor occupants
- Business park entrances
- Medical suites and practice centres
- Government and municipal buildings
- Campus and head office reception areas
Materials and finishes
- Aluminium frames with interchangeable name strips
- Acrylic panels with vinyl or printed text
- Aluminium composite or brushed stainless faces
- Freestanding totem in steel or aluminium for entrances
- Glass or acrylic with stand-off fixings
- Snap-frame or slide-in poster systems
Lighting options
- Non-illuminated for well-lit lobbies
- Internally lit panels for exterior or dim positions
- External spotlight on freestanding units
What affects the price
- Number of entries and overall size
- Interchangeable strips versus fixed graphics
- Indoor or outdoor construction
- Wall-mounted or freestanding
- Illumination
- Finish and materials
- Foundation and installation work for exterior units
Supplying measurements
Send the number of tenants or departments to be listed and how often they change, plus the space available and a photo of the wall or floor area. For outdoor freestanding units, include where it will stand and what the ground is.
Artwork requirements
A list of names in the order you want them, plus the building logo and any tenant logos as vector files (PDF, AI, EPS or SVG). If tenant logos are not available, a clean text-only layout often reads best anyway.
Survey and installation
Wall-mounted directories need a sound wall and suitable fixings; freestanding exterior units need a foundation or base plate, and engineering input where required for larger structures. Lit directories are connected by a qualified electrician.
Maintenance
Wipe panels with a damp cloth and mild cleaner. Keep spare blank strips on hand so tenant changes can be made quickly and neatly.
Frequently asked questions
How do we update the directory when a tenant leaves?
With an interchangeable system, only the affected name strip is replaced; we can supply new strips as needed.
Can a directory be placed outside the building?
Yes, as a freestanding totem or wall-mounted unit built for outdoor use; this may need a site survey before a formal quotation.
Can tenant logos be included?
Yes, if they are supplied as usable artwork, though a consistent text layout is often clearer.