Behind the Flames
Behind the Flames Previous Post Behind the Flames April 7, 2026 Illuminated signs don’t fail without warning. Learn the real causes of signage fires and how better design, compliance and maintenance can prevent them. Illuminated signage fires are becoming more visible across the industry, but the LED modules themselves are rarely the culprit. In my latest article for Visual Impact Magazine, I break down why these incidents happen, the unique environmental pressures we face in ANZ and the practical steps sign and print businesses can take to reduce risk. From loose electrical connections and water ingress to heat build‑up around drivers and non‑compliant components, most failures stem from system‑level issues rather than product defects. The good news is that the majority of these risks are preventable with better specification, smarter fabrication decisions, and structured maintenance.I also explore why Australia’s coastal exposure and UV intensity make design and installation decisions even more critical and how routine inspections, compliant components, and proper electrical sign‑off protect both clients and the reputation of our industry. This is not about blame. It’s about professionalism, safety, and strengthening the trade we’re all proud to be part of.Read the full article here: VI MAG AUTUMN 2026 Previous Post
Is the First Drill the right bootcamp for me?
Is the First Drill the right bootcamp for me? Previous Post Is the First Drill the right bootcamp for me? January 16, 2026 This educational workshop is designed for anyone new to the sign and print trade. Consider a scenario where you’ve just hired the near-perfect sales representative. They are great with people, understand business development and fit in well with the rest of the team, but they know nothing about signage. They call decals “stickers” and illuminated signs “light up” signs. Fear not… The First Drill has you covered. This one-day intensive sign training course will give them the sign and print essentials needed to hit the ground running and start bringing in the sales. Perhaps you’ve taken on a new designer. They have strong design experience and a great eye for detail but beyond aesthetics, they know little about signs or what things need to be taken in to account when designing them. Will the stroke width be sufficient to illuminate that fabricated letter? Will that sign be legible when viewed from that distance? This sign and print educational bootcamp covers all of that. Or maybe you’ve hired an apprentice and want to make sure that they get the best possible start in this trade. No matter the role of your new staff, we take them by the hand an introduce them to the world of signs, showing them just how cool signs are and how lucky they are to be entering this industry. We train all those new to the sign industry the purpose of signs and print, teach them the core function and impact that signage has in business. We help educate all trainees on the many materials available and give them the knowledge to select the right one for the job at hand, with confidence. We discuss sign products, installation methods, design considerations, resource consent and share top tips for getting it right every time. This interactive and educational workshop has been designed specifically as an introduction to the sign industry and will help bring delegates up to speed quickly. Previous Post
From blank walls to better business – Discover the Power of Colour
From blank walls to better business – Discover the Power of Colour Previous Post From blank walls to better business – Discover the Power of Colour December 23, 2025 Signage is more than just putting a logo or company values onto walls. We can utilise them to produce wall murals and wallpapers to shape how people feel, focus, and perform. Research shows that plain white offices can increase boredom, mistakes, and disengagement, while the right use of colour and imagery improves productivity, mood, and concentration. Click here to read this article to see how you can use this knowledge to become the consultant and save your clients money whilst increasing your profits. Previous Post
Diversify – but don’t do it all!
Diversify – but don’t do it all! </h2 > Previous PostNext Post Diversify – but don’t do it all! November 1, 2025 Have you noticed that your clients are becoming more demanding? As their workloads increase, they are no longer wanting to shop around for various print and sign products… they want a one-stop-shop! Read our latest contribution to Visual Impact Magazine where we tell you how to diversify without increasingly your workload. Previous PostNext Post