Letting the sun shine in

Based in Kelowna, B.C., Optic Signs & Marketing was established in 2010 and has now grown to encompass three full-time and two part-time staff. The company focuses primarily on large-format digital printing of graphics for vehicles, retailers, restaurants, offices and art spaces.

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Markings and installation instructions

Electrical codes require that specific markings and installation instructions be displayed for electric signs, with visible labelling on their faces. In fact, code authorities actively check signs to verify all of the required markings are present, so signmakers need to know how to prepare their projects accordingly.

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Brightening up the AGO

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) recently developed a new facility with Toronto-based Hariri Pontarini Architects (HPA) to expand its ability to serve the public through art education. Representing the renovation of approximately 3,252 m2 (35,000 sf) of the AGO’s space in downtown Toronto, the Weston Family Learning Centre (WFLC) is designed to serve as a social hub for creativity, community and education.

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Planning for health-care facilities

Health-care facilities are among the most complex environments accessed by the public. As hospitals and medical centres strive to improve efficiency and the user experience, one of the key considerations is how to successfully guide people to their destinations.

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Adding value with specialty inks

Ink technology in the digital printing sector has advanced dramatically in recent years, allowing print service providers (PSPs) to offer more products more profitably than ever. Indeed, one of the most significant new trends for the wide-format graphics market has been the introduction of specialty inks—including white, clear and ‘metallic’ formulations.

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All you need to know about banners

While many sign shops are branching out into new and unusual markets, industry surveys show the number one wide-format printing application by volume is still banners. Nevertheless, signmakers young and old alike often ask the same questions about this medium, including how to select the right flexible substrates and inks.

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Reviewing Toronto’s regulations

Toronto’s sign bylaw unit is currently reviewing its municipal regulations, particularly those relating to electronic message centres (EMCs) and other forms of outdoor illuminated and digital signs and billboards. This process has involved collecting public and industry input with regard to potential bylaw changes for both first-party and third-party signage, as well as traffic safety implications.

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