The One Man Shop
It's a tall order to open a sign business by yourself.
We see franchises opening up all the time with considerable success. While they aren't set up as a one person operation, they do have a good business model some of which can apply to all of us. I've always admired their technique when setting up a new store. They've got that down pat along with their advertising program. Even so we see some of these franchises fail. But they start off with a good program knowing what they want to accomplish. They also have the computer equipment and software ready to hit the road running.
Most franchises aren't interested in dimensional work because it takes too much skill, knowledge and equipment. Not only that, the less accomplished designer will work themselves into financial holes.
Here's a guide. To bring in good financial returns you should touch the product as few times as possible. This means knowing the materials that will be used and refining the finishing process so it comes together quickly.
Set down with a hot cup of coffee and a sketch book to list materials and techniques for the project. Try to figure out where the problems may occur. Then follow your plan to the T. Make as few changes as possible.
Getting Assistance:
It's almost impossible to cover all the necessary business steps by yourself. Part time may be the answer. For example ten hours a week for general help assistance might pay dividends. Lets say you are weak with the computer and design. I've had lots of people offering this kind of help. Then there's bookkeeping and advertising which needs to be done. The point is, there are lots of folks available part time for not much money. To make the most out of it requires making a weekly list of what you want the part timers to accomplish. And how much you are willing to spend.
The best employee I ever had came from a news paper add. He started at minimum wage and was destitute. Although he was illiterate and came from the other side of the tracks he ended up a model sign person. Over the years his skill level couldn't be beat and I paid him top wages. Terry passed from heart disease four years ago. But the point is, if you look for part time assistance in an area where you're weak, it could pay off big time.
I'd enjoy hearing about methods and suggestions for easing the burden of the one man shop. Topics like advertising, yellow pages, websites along with unusual materials. I have several materials someone might be interested in. Then there's always shop equipment Tips and Techniques.
Joe
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