By Jeff Grant
The simple, basic message or sign board is a sturdy foot-soldier in the battle to communicate effectively. Whether it be with customers, staff, or sales reps, a visual presentation is made more powerful with an inexpensive corkboard, dry erase, easy tack or letter board. There are a couple aspects to consider when purchasing a sign board.

The first element to think about is whether your message board will be used outside or indoors. If the answer is “outdoors,” you’ll want an enclosed model with a locking door and drain holes in the back to allow condensation to escape. Another consideration is whether you need an illuminated model; the advantages are obvious.

Okay, let’s dig in to an overview of message boards…

Corkboards
For most, the corkboard is the quintessential message board, and for good reason. Long-lasting and marvelously uncomplicated, the corkboard offers years of service. The cork backing “self-heals” push-pin holes and enables quick and easy placement of notes and photos. Corkboards come in many different finishes and the backing can be painted, fabric, or left unfinished. Pick one the works best with your color palette. An unfinished board dampens sound nicely also.

Dry Erase Boards
A staff meeting stalwart, the dry erase board is a monument to efficiency. Good ideas are conjured up with a pass of the pen while not-so-good ideas disappear under a sweep of the eraser. Excellent for blue-sky brainstorming and organizing meetings. If you own a restaurant, a dry erase board is a great way to announce the evening’s specials.

Easy Tack Boards
A relatively new addition to the category, easy tack boards come with a replaceable non-permanent, self-adhesive fabric that holds pictures, menus, notes, reminders, brochures, art, and more simply by placing the items on the fabric and pressing firmly. Removal is as easy as pulling the item off. These message boards are great for displaying paper graphics and photos. Some even come with a self-standing pedestal.

Letter Boards
Want a reliable, durable, classy way to make announcements? The letter board sign might be your answer. Enclosed letter boards offer security while open face letter boards provide convenience and accessibility. Crafted in aluminum, bronze, gold, wood, and plastic finishes, letter board signs are easy to use and provide years of service.

TRIO offers a comprehensive line of message and sign boards.