Start with the decision
Write the architectural signage scope around named deliverables, the drawings that describe them and the interfaces with other trades. Build an indexed sign schedule and separate artwork approval from site readiness. Exterior signs, interior wayfinding and temporary signs may involve different installers and approvals. Use the worksheet below to expose missing information before requesting a firm quotation.
This guide is for business-to-business project planning in the United States and Canada. For the wider trade context, visit the architectural signage resource hub.
Define each package boundary
| Deliverable | Input to include | Boundary to settle |
|---|---|---|
| Sign schedule and artwork | indexed sign list with messages, locations and approval status | artwork development, proof revisions and owner-supplied files |
| Fabrication and mounting | material and finish selections with mounting locations and substrate details | backing, anchors, foundations, lifts and repairs at old sign locations |
| Illuminated signs and turnover | illumination schedule, connection responsibility and project approval references | sign wiring versus incoming power, controls and changes made after inspection |
Download the architectural signage scope of work worksheet (CSV)
Fill in the response, owner or source, and date checked. Keep unresolved items visible. The file contains planning prompts only; it does not calculate quantities or make an approval decision.
Put the checklist to work
- Attach the current drawing and specification references, and identify who may receive them. Separate issued information from items still awaiting approval.
- Assign sign permits, backing or foundations, power supply, access equipment and restoration after removal explicitly. Use included, excluded, by others or unresolved, with a named owner for unresolved items.
- Document assumptions about approved message and artwork files, sign location verification, and readiness of mounting surfaces and electrical connections. A target date is not a substitute for those inputs being available.
- Issue the same revision to all invited businesses. Record clarifications and circulate material changes before comparing proposals.
A scope gap worth discussing
Illustrative example — not a Build Accord client project
A bid prices every directory panel in the room schedule but excludes changing the final tenant names after artwork approval. Identify the last editable milestone and distinguish spare inserts from replacements before award.
Apply this to your decision: A scope sheet with deliverables, interfaces, exclusions and unresolved decisions that every invited business can price against.
Using this in the US and Canada
For a project in the United States
Record the state, local jurisdiction and actual service area. Confirm the project location and the scope of the business’s authority with the responsible project team. The U.S. Small Business Administration provides a starting point for business licensing resources.
For a project in Canada
Record the province or territory, municipality and actual service area. Use Canada’s permits and licences resources to locate relevant checks, including the linked BizPaL service. Confirm requirements for the actual activity and location.
For either market, state the currency, units and deadline time zone. This worksheet is general planning guidance, not a determination of licensing, procurement eligibility or technical compliance.
The next useful step
Continue with architectural signage invitation to bid checklist. For the other side of the conversation, see the architectural signage bid proposal guide.
Build Accord coordinates introductions between construction project teams and trade contractors. An inquiry starts a discussion of fit and availability; it does not guarantee a contractor, an invitation to bid or an award. These guides are not a listing of currently available crews or projects.