Want to learn more about manufacturing and fabrication in the sign & graphics industry? The below industry-specific resources will help guide you.
Click on the name of a resource below to read a description and see purchasing options. Reach out to education@signs.org with any questions.
Note: Online courses and on-demand webinars are accessible only by the purchaser.
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Online Courses
In addition to wayfinding, custom graphics on fabric can influence the wellbeing of those visiting a space. This course provides an overview of the benefits and types of fabric graphics along with short and long term applications and how fabric graphics can be used to create both temporary and permanently transformed environments.
- Price: $60 for ISA members; $80 for non-members
Early adopters of 3D printing are discovering its competitive edge in a changing manufacturing industry. This presentation represents a deep and targeted sign industry research initiative with designers and manufacturers to understand and explain the various types of additive manufacturing processes, and how they will ultimately change how we design, the way we work and what we produce.
- Price: $60 for ISA members; $80 for non-members
Understanding the properties of the film you will be using for a wall, window, floor or vehicle wrap is critical. Cast, calendar, full print and color change film all have different properties and functionality. Knowing the properties of each is extremely important. If you treat each film the same you may end up making the wrong decision which could result slow installs, poor quality and durability issues.
- Price: $60 for ISA members; $80 for non-members
Many of today’s signs and graphics are produced using films backed with pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA for short). Understanding these materials, their applications and finishing technologies are key to a successful end product and critical to achieving profitability. This course will teach you about the different film types, questions to ask and resources available as well as the different considerations for various applications from windows to walls to vehicles.
- Price: $60 for ISA members; $80 for non-members
On-Demand Webinars
Bundle
This comprehensive guide to urban wayfinding, from planning to implementation, offers tips on financing, design, regulatory issues and maintenance. This on-demand webinar, based on the “Urban Wayfinding Planning and Implementation Manual” by the Sign Research Foundation, offers support to planners and city officials interested in developing wayfinding programs that enhance a brand and reinforce key destinations.
- Price: $30 for ISA members; $40 for non-members
Part 1: Planning
Successful wayfinding programs have strong planner and public official leadership. This program delves into important aspects of planning leadership including financing, stakeholder management and regulatory management. Led by design and administrative professionals the lecture will also include a discussion on proactive techniques for project leadership.
- Price: $10 for ISA members; $15 for non-members
Part: Design
Cities and Regions are undertaking large structural changes with short term crisis reinforcing long term economic and social trends. This program will focus on a few leading trends impacting wayfinding including the expansion of trail and regional park projects, digital technologies and multi-modal expansion.
- Price: $10 for ISA members; $15 for non-members
Part 3: Fabrication
This on-demand webinar goes in depth into how sign companies and fabricators are incorporated into urban wayfinding and the role they play. It focuses on the material and fabrication process represented in the manual and will be tailored for fabricators. Signs in outdoor environments need to be tough to withstand the physical environment and everyday wear and tear. This program encompasses the material, fabrication and maintenance approaches that can extend the life of a sign and make it easier to change and update including: material and fabrication process; location planning for better maintenance; material and lighting specification for durability; sign management; and maintenance.
- Price: $10 member; $15 non-members
Part 4: Case Study
This on-demand webinar examines the process of developing wayfinding system in a sign district containing multiple municipal areas. It includes all of the themes outlined in the manual from the mission statement to final implementation. Topics include municipal and planner leadership; working with the design team; financing; regulatory management; prototyping and fabricator bid; and final management.
- Price: $10 for ISA members; $15 for non-members
Research
This document explores the critical role of finishing in wide format digital printing, addressing the expanding range of materials from soft signage to PVC alternatives. It emphasizes how proper finishing capabilities – including framing, mounting, cutting, and automation – are essential for maintaining growth and profitability as print technology advances, covering various devices and operational parameters for both indoor and outdoor applications.
- Price: $0 for ISA members; $25 for non-members
