Lit signage divides into two approaches. Internal illumination puts the light source inside the sign and pushes it out through a translucent face. External illumination aims light at the sign from a fixture mounted nearby. The first gives even brightness and a cleaner look at night, the second costs less up front and suits signs that are not meant to glow:
- Keep the business identified once the storefront lights are off
- Give an evening customer the same information a daytime one gets
- Register at a glance rather than requiring someone to slow down and read