TERMINOLOGY
Sign Shop Glossary
The most important terms from the sign industry — simply explained.
AI Quoting
Automatic price calculation using artificial intelligence. PlotonIQ uses regional market prices, material costs and experience data for fair quotes in 30 seconds.
Car Wrapping
Full vehicle wrap with vinyl — for colour change or advertising. Requires precise surface calculation, which PlotonIQ automates via photo measurement.
Digital Printing
Printing process for individual designs without printing plates. Ideal for short runs, personalised advertising and fast delivery.
Frosted Glass Film
Semi-transparent film for privacy on glass surfaces. Commonly used in offices, clinics and retail. PlotonIQ detects frosted glass areas automatically via AI measurement.
Illuminated Signs
Lit advertising installations such as channel letters, LED pylons and light boxes. PlotonIQ quotes electrics, LED modules and installation in one offer.
Kanban Board
Visual job management with columns like enquiry, production, installation, invoice. PlotonIQ uses AI-optimised Kanban boards for production planning.
Large Format Printing
Printing on large surfaces like banners, tarpaulins, exhibition walls and facade cladding. PlotonIQ plans print jobs with AI-optimised machine utilisation.
Post-Calculation
Comparing planned vs. actual costs after job completion. PlotonIQ automates post-calculation with AI analysis.
Price Justification
Transparent explanation of why a price is fair. PlotonIQ automatically generates price justifications using market data, regional indices and industry benchmarks.
Privacy Film
Window and glass partition film that provides privacy without blocking light. Often combined with frosted glass film.
Pylon Sign
Freestanding advertising columns at roadsides or building entrances. Usually illuminated. PlotonIQ calculates material costs, foundations and permit requirements.
Site Survey
On-site measurement of surfaces for quoting. Traditionally with a tape measure, with PlotonIQ via smartphone photo with AI polygon detection.
Vehicle Wrap
Applying adhesive vinyl to company vehicles for advertising. Includes partial and full wraps (car wrapping) and fleet graphics. PlotonIQ calculates surfaces, materials and installation time automatically.
Vinyl Cutting
Computer-controlled cutting of text and logos from self-adhesive vinyl. Standard process for signs and vehicle graphics.
Wayfinding System
Signage for orientation in buildings, on grounds or in cities. Includes directional signs, floor directories and door signs.