Turning over a new year always brings changes to business trends, technology, and goals. As we begin a new decade in 2020, the signage industry will continue to evolve as well. Here at Acorn Sign, we are committed to being at the forefront of our industry in relation to accessibility, environmentalism and ethical business practices. These are some of our predictions of how the signage industry will continue to evolve in 2020.
- Strengthening focus on environmentalism – With a growing awareness of environmental issues in our society today, we see the signage industry growing its search for eco-friendly, recyclable products that reduce carbon emissions and greenhouse gases. Our team at Acorn is already focusing on developing business and manufacturing practices as environmentally friendly as possible, and we are continuing this mission in the new year.
- Growing emphasis in digital signage – As technology advances, digital signage is becoming more affordable and environmentally responsible. Because of the ability to incorporate features like personalization, 3D maps, video content and AI, we are seeing more companies pursuing digital signage in place of traditional signage. Businesses are also seeing the benefits of digital signage because they can easily change content, use energy-efficient LED lighting and utilize multiple wayfinding systems.
- Developing more accessible built environments – Around the world, more governments and international organizations are legislating accessibility in built environments in order to make societies more inclusive. Society also has a growing aging population and the U.S. Census Bureau predicts that of the demographics of those 65 years old and over is estimated to rise from 8.5% of the global population in 2015 to 12% in 2030 (https://www.researchgate.net/publication/299528572_An_Aging_World_2015). When combining an aging population and those with congenital physical or mental disabilities, a focus on accessibility in built environments is becoming more and more prevalent.
- Cultivating transparency throughout companies – Concerns over privacy, financial records and data breaches mean that consumers are valuing transparency more highly than ever before in every industry. A study by Sprout Social in 2018 showed that 86% of Americans say transparency from businesses is more important than ever and these statistics continue to grow (https://sproutsocial.com/insights/data/social-media-transparency/). Companies are using social media and direct communication with consumers to help foster this transparency.
As a certified B-Corporation, we are dedicated to ethical business practices, transparency, environmentalism, and increasing accessibility throughout society. We work to promote the Americans with Disabilities Act to help create more inclusive built environments for individuals of all ability levels.
Our team at Acorn is excited to journey into a new decade as we continue to serve our clients for all of their signage needs. If your company is looking to refresh your signage in the new year, you can feel confident in the fact that Acorn is a B-Corporation that is dedicated to our clients and the planet.
Sources:
https://www.avnetwork.com/blogs/digital-signage-2020-outlook-paving-the-world-with-video
https://sproutsocial.com/insights/data/social-media-transparency/
https://www.theworldcounts.com/themes/our_environment
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/six-accessibility-trends-watch-2020-welcome-my-series-pina/
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/299528572_An_Aging_World_2015