Photo Blog: Aqua Systems Fleet Graphics

Aqua Systems was founded in Indianapolis in 1959 as a water treatment company specializing in water softeners, purification systems, bottled water, and salt. They offer water solutions for home, business, and industry. They can be easily reached at 1-800-447-5582 or on their website, ILoveMyWater.com. And…All of this information is elegantly shared on their trailer, and is clearly visible, even at 55 MPH. That’s what effective vehicle graphics do—share a story.

What Makes This Vehicle Wrap Work?

It’s deceptively simple. At first glance, the eye perceives several colors, but there’s only two, black and blue on white. The strategic placement of colors, coordinated fonts, and the use of fade makes it look like more than it is.

It tells a story. “Helping people improve their water since 1959.” With this seven word phrase we know what they do and how long they’ve been doing it, which inspires confidence. Think about it—the folks at Aqua Systems have specialized in one service for 55 years. They know what they’re doing by now.

It’s compelling. The rolling aqua blue water fading to white, the letters floating on the water, and the typography add up to graphics that are appealing on an artistic level.

The call to action stands out. By alternating colors on the website URL, what may have seemed a jumble of letters, becomes an easy to remember phrase. I love my water. Hard to forget isn’t it?

Where Is Aqua Systems Located?

Auqa systems has grown from a small local company, focused on home inspections, to a large corporation with centrally located retail superstores in Indiana, Ohio, Florida, Illinois, Montana, and Nebraska.

If you’d like to learn how to turn your vehicle into a rolling billboard, contact us and we’ll give you the best advice there is, not some watered down version.

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Photo Blog: Aqua Blue Van Wrap

Nowhere on this van wrap does it say cool, refreshing, or relaxing, but it’s there. Not one word mentions stress relief and enjoyment, yet when you look at this graphic you can feel it. Aqua Blue conveys the message that a well maintained swimming pool adds these things to your life. Saying it without words is the sign of an excellent vehicle graphic. Whether it’s installing, renovating, or inspecting pools—this fleet wrap informs you that Aqua Blue helps bring fun in the sun. There may be snow on the ground, but keep in mind, summer is right around the corner, and if this summer’s heat is anything like the winter’s cold, well then…

What Makes this Wrap Work?

• First of all it doesn’t try to say too much. I’ve seen van wraps that share logo, company name, slogan, motto, mission statement, phone number, website, and the owner’s image. Information overload leads to a lack of cohesion—it’s hard to share a story when you’re shouting several different plot lines. Aqua Blue shares their story.

• From the cool blue logo to the refreshing waves of water– the design oozes coolness. It’s refreshing just to look at, which is exactly what a swimming pool service company wants when it’s 102 in the shade. If you see this van driving down your street on a hot summer Saturday, you’re going to think about how soothing a new pool would be. It works.

• The copy is short, sweet, and effective. It conveys who Aqua Blue is, what they do, and how to reach them in easy to read and digestible pieces.

Aqua Blue Pool Service Helps central Indiana consumers with every aspect of their pool needs, from installation to cleaning and everything in between.

An effective wrap, such as this Aqua Blue service van, is a combination of knowing the company story and designing a vehicle graphic that shares the story at 55 MPH. Would you like to share your story? Contact us—we love a good story.

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7 Steps to Choosing the Best Vehicle Graphics for your Business

Most vehicle graphics providers use checklists for designing, fabricating, and installing vehicle graphics. Checklists are essential to maintaining efficient high quality products. They can be used to educate and inform a customer throughout the process, but what can a consumer use before they’re a customer? How does any consumer know where to start? If you’re considering vehicle graphics this checklist is for you. Because it will lead you to choosing the best vehicle graphics for your business.

A Vehicle Graphics 7-point Checklist

By taking the time to use this checklist with your team before you contact a vehicle graphic provider you will save yourself potential pain. When you know what you want and why you want it, it’s easier to communicate what your organization needs in fleet graphics. Doing this will help you avoid a fleet graphic disappointment. It can save you time and money. And by making time on the front end of the project to focus on your wants and needs you will save even more time and frustration on the back end.

1. What is the year, make, model, and color of the vehicle?

Having the information available to providers will speed the process. So, what information does the graphic designer need? “The easy answer to what does a vehicle graphic designer need to know about your vehicle before she or he begins the vehicle graphics design process is – everything! But that’s not true, they don’t need to know the size of the motor, the color of the interior, or your favorite radio station but they pretty much need to know everything about the exterior of the vehicle from top to bottom.

“This includes the make, model, color, options, and add-on equipment of the car or truck. One of the best ways to help a graphic designer serve you and meet your needs, as well as your expectations, is to furnish the designer with accurate and complete specifications in a timely manner.

For example, to say you have a 2019 Ford F150 isn’t enough information. The F150 is available in at least a dozen packages from XL, XLT, and Lariat to the Platinum. They’re available in regular cab, extended cab, two-door, four-door, and with multiple options. One graphic design will not fit all the variations of the 2019 F150.” — FAQ: What Does a Vehicle Graphic Designer Need to Know About My Vehicle?

2. What’s the purpose of the wrap?

Are you rebranding your business, advertising a new product or service, issuing a call to action, or replacing damaged graphics? “Do your fleet graphics have a purpose? A better question might be — do your fleet graphics fulfill the purpose of your organizations marketing? If your reason for fleet graphics is filling the top of the lead funnel (and if it’s not, should it be?) what will achieve this? For example, if your vehicle graphics are nothing more than a magnetic sign with your business name and phone number, then it might be time to consider advertising on your rolling billboards, not only identifying who you are.” — Do Your Fleet Graphics Have a Purpose?

3. What artwork do you need?

If you’re not a graphic artist familiar with three-dimensional applications, the best route is to work with a designer who is. “Native files are not suitable for digital print, which requires the use of RIP (raster image processing) software. They must be exported as high quality PDF files before they may be used.

With any job, be sure to provide all images, links, fonts, or additional information used within the print files to ensure nothing is lost in translation. For accurate color matching, it’s best to provide a physical color proof for comparison. Digital print files, CD, DVD, and flash drives are all acceptable media for submission, and TKO also provides an FTP site for uploading files.” — FAQ: Will This Artwork Work?

4. Do you need a full wrap, partial, or decals?

Consider, which option may best meet the purpose and fit the vehicle. There are full wraps, partial wraps, window film, decals, and plotter cut letters. Many of these options can be combined such as decals and plotter cut letters. Fleet graphics aren’t one size fits all, and not every vehicle in your fleet needs a full wrap. “…when you understand the options available, rather than categorizing all adhesive vinyl vehicle graphics as “wraps,” it opens up creative avenues. And knowing the options can also save you time and money. These six options can be combined in many ways or used independently to achieve your vehicle graphics goals.” — Vehicle Graphics Coverage Options.

5. How long do you need it?

There are hundreds of materials available to fit your needs. Applying a seven year warrantied adhesive vinyl on a one year lease is overkill. It’s also critical to know how long the installation of adhesive vinyl graphics will last.

Using material that will only last two to three years on a seven year leased fleet vehicle can become expensive, “How long will your fleet graphics last? The answer is that a lot depends on who you choose to provide your graphics. Using the best materials for the application. Hiring certified and experienced installers. Taking climate and color in to consideration. And properly maintaining your fleet graphics can and will extend their life.” — FAQ: How Long Will My Vehicle Wrap Last?

6. Who will install it?

The difference between a professionally trained installer familiar with the specific application required for your fleet graphics choices, and someone less experienced, can make all the difference in the final product. “There are two primary vehicle graphics installation certification programs. Installation PDAA (Professional Decal Application Alliance) which is administered by SGIA (Specialty Graphics Imaging Association), and UASG (United Application Standards Group), through 3M.

“The UASG stands for United Application Standards Group. It is the country’s leading group of professional graphic installers – proven and tested to be the best in the business. The UASG has distinguished itself by being the first organization of its kind to require every decal installer to meet high standards of professionalism and installation skill.” — How to Find the Best Vehicle Graphics Installers.

7. What’s your budget?

Having an idea what you’re able to invest in the graphics will help a provider advise the most suitable options. “People can always find reasons to avoid taking action, to delay making a decision. However, there is almost no good reason not to advertise on organizational vehicles. Maybe if the vehicle is temporary or being replaced—just maybe, or if a company has no marketing budget. If a business does have a marketing budget, vehicle graphics are one of the most cost effective methods of adverting.” — No Excuse NOT to Advertise on Your Vehicles

Choosing the Best Vehicle Graphics for Your Business

Choosing the best vehicle graphics for your business begins with knowing what you have, want, and need. Knowing this before beginning the process will help you avoid disappointment with your vehicle graphics choices. Organizing your ideas, purposes, and information before contacting a vehicle graphics provider puts you ahead of the process. When you prepare you can create a clearer vision of the finished product. So, when you’re ready, bring your checklist to us, we’d be more than happy to check it out.

If we can answer any questions about your fleet graphics needs please Contact Us.

Photo blog: Koester Racing Trailer Wrap

This trailer personifies what a racing trailer should accomplish. It identifies the team, highlights sponsors, and acknowledges the racing series. And it does with class, style, and flare. It not only looks like a racing trailer—the graphics move like a racing trailer. Yes, this Koester Racing trailer and graphics are pretty special, but there’s an even better story behind it.

Building a Winning Tradition

Larry Koester founded this NTPA Mini Modified team in 1992. He not only finished as runner up but as mini modified puller of the year a recognition he was to receive in 2001, 2003, 2006, and 2008. His son Adam joined the team in 2004, and they became the only father/son team to finish first and second for three consecutive years, 2006, 2007, and 2008. But the real story is about Larry and his determination. You see, Larry lost both his legs in a farming accident BEFORE he started the team.

Overcoming Adversity

In 1986, both of Larry’s legs were amputated above the knee. Recovery for such a procedure is long, difficult, and painful. Anyone facing such a challenge would be forgiven for settling for less, but that’s not what Larry did. We weren’t there with him, and have no way of knowing the trials and tribulations he overcame. What we do know is where he is today. And today he’s at the top of his sport. That’s heart. You have to respect anyone who’s gone through what he has and named his tractor…Footloose!

Larry, TKO Graphix, is proud to be the trailer graphics provider for you and your championship team. Thank you.

Bring your championship team to us, and we’ll put our heart into it. Contact us for a free quote.

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Case Study: Coordinating a Workspace Rebrand

The Project — To rebrand PERQ of Indianapolis’s interior and exterior workspace to more closely align with their culture.

The Challenge — To reduce the workload required in coordinating multiple providers by reducing miscommunications, which often lead to mistakes, cost overruns, and delays.

The Solution — TKO prides itself in meeting our customers’ needs with our One Stop Shop concept. TKO Graphix and TKO Signs worked together on this project. Instead of requiring PERQ to coordinate the efforts, we oversaw the project, sharing artwork, planning, and communications, which freed PERQ to focus on what it does best—marketing.

The Outcome — The work was completed on time and surpassed the customer’s expectations. Although the interior and exterior are completely different graphics concepts, they work together, introducing PERQ’s unique culture to vendors, customers, and employees. From the time anyone pulls into the PERQ lot and continuing throughout the workspace—it’s apparent this place is special.

Who is PERQ?

“PERQ is a marketing technology and promotions company that helps businesses attract consumers with incentives. But that’s only one of our layers. We’re a company built of people who love winning the game of business and working towards the common goal of achieving success for our clients.” — PERQ.com

What are your workspace, advertising, and marketing challenges? With our one stop approach, we offer expertise in graphics, signage, and marketing solutions. We can suggest concepts others may not have the resources to offer. If you’d like some ideas, give us a call at 1-888-544-8051. We’ll coordinate it from there.

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Photo Blog: Green B.E.A.N. Delivery Van Wrap

We’ve been privileged to work with Green B.E.A.N. Delivery and are excited about their new vehicle graphics. The design of this van set is a great example of how to make vehicle graphics work. Here’s a few of the reasons the Green B.E.A.N. Deliver vehicle branding works.

It’s eye catching, attractive, and pleasing. The use of color and copy is coordinated to blend together. Nothing is jolting or seems out of place. Each part enhances the other rather than detracting from it.

It’s elegant in its simplicity. Too much information isn’t only difficult to see on a moving vehicle, but confusing—nothing confusing here.

It uses a unified logo. The logo on the van is the same on the web site and I imagine the same everywhere. I don’t have to read the logo to know who it is. I’ve seen it before.

It communicates a message. It only took four words, organic produce—natural groceries. Place those four words on a delivery van and you have a story.

It has a clear call to action. Nothing complicated, the website address is large and visible. If this van was in your neighborhood wouldn’t you check out the website like I did?

Who is Green B.E.A.N. Delivery?

“Green B.E.A.N. Delivery is a dynamic food company that takes a multifaceted approach to building local food systems. B.E.A.N. is an acronym that represents our core initiatives; Biodynamic, Education, Agriculture, and Nutrition.”

Vehicle graphics shouldn’t be limited to words and a logo, they should be attractive and attention grabbing. They’re one of the most accessible marketing pieces your company has. Make sure what you present is advertising art—not words on a truck. Would you like your vehicle to be a work of art? Contact us here for your own masterpiece.

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FAQ: What’s the Best Temporary Sign?

Great question, a lot depends on the purpose of the sign, where it will be installed, and how long it will be displayed. A temporary sign may announce a weekend event, a six month construction project, or a yearlong corporate expansion. Here are a few of the options.

Banners – Traditionally banners are used for short term events such as festivals, grand openings, and civic initiatives. There are multiple levels of materials, inks, and construction available depending on how they’re used. For example, if it’s to be hung, adding grommets is essential. Outdoor usage calls for weather resistant material, and if it may be re-used, higher quality vinyl and inks should be considered.

Magnetics – If the sign is to be placed on metal then magnetics may be your answer. Magnetics make good temporary identifiers for vehicles and trailers, they hold up well to reuse, and will accept digital print. They do best on flat surfaces, which may limit size.

Window clings – These are good for any glass surface. Window clings are great on club house windows during a golf outing, a conference center entryway during a convention, or a brick and mortar advertising a special. Clings are easy to install, quick to remove, and add to any promotion.

Construction signs – These signs are often seen at construction sites, but have many uses. They’re typically 4×8 or smaller and are constructed from various materials including plywood, corrugated plastic, and aluminum. Our favorite is alumicore, which is corrugated plastic covered with an aluminum skin. It’s light weight, cost effective, and holds up well to the elements. These signs may be mounted on buildings or posts.

The best temporary sign for your purposes will depend on—your purposes. Will it be used indoors or outside? Might it be reused? Where will it be mounted and how long will it be displayed? If you’d like to discuss your temporary sign needs, we’d be happy to offer you a permanent solution for your temporary needs.

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Advantages of Screen Print in Large Format Graphics

In this video, Jason Scheurer, TKO Graphix National Account Manager and R & D specialist, discusses the benefits of large format screen print. TKO grew up with screen print—it’s where we started. Today we have a variety of digital options such as our HP Turbo and HP Scitex printers. However, we continue to maintain our screen department and here’s why.

You Should Use Screen Print When…

• A smooth, pixelation free print is desired

• You need a color that falls out of CMYK gamut

• You’re ordering a large number of prints using only one or two colors

• You want to protect your graphic with clear coat

Jason shares these and other advantages of large format screen print. Before assuming digital is the answer to your large format graphics needs consider this—screen might be a better fit and more cost effective. If you’d like to learn if screen could be your best solution, we’d be happy to screen your questions. Contact us here.

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Removing Old Decals and Installing New

In this video, Bill Moss, TKO Graphix installation manager, discusses removing and replacing vehicle decals as we watch a TKO installation crew updating the graphics on a Plainfield, Indiana Police Department SUV. So, according to Bill, the Plainfield Police change their vehicle graphics about every three years. This year the new decals were chosen by the department’s staff.

How it’s Done

The process begins by heating the old vinyl graphics with a torch then pulling them carefully off the vehicle. Because, any residual vinyl is removed using a soft cloth and a citrus based cleaner. Therefore new graphics are measured, marked, positioned, and squeegeed in place. The department’s new decal package included copy, stripes, shields, and unit numbers.

Do You Lease?

Many vehicle leases hold the lessee responsible for the removal of all graphics before returning the vehicle. TKO Graphics full time employee crews are expert at de-identification (vinyl graphics removal), and we’re happy to offer our help. Even more importantly, we can take off the old AND install the new all at the same time—just another of our one stop shop services. If you need helping swapping the old for the new give us a shout.

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Name This Car and Win a Padfolio

I decided to have a wee bit of fun (does that sound English?) with today’s blog. The photograph of this Fuzzy Vodka wrapped vehicle was taken in March of 2009, almost 5 years ago. That’s before TKO had a blog. I didn’t have the slightest idea about the make and model of this car—I had to ask. Do you recognize it? If you know what it is, and you’re not an employee of TKO or Fuzzy’s Vodka, correctly be the first to name this vehicle and we’ll send you a mini padfolio. The padfolio’s are excellent on-the-go organizers—we use them ourselves.

As we’ve shared in this previous Fuzzy’s Vodka Photo Blog their product is an internationally recognized award winning vodka, which I’ve been known to sample and can personally attest to its character and kick, but that’s not all that they do.

Fuzzy’s is more than Vodka

Fuzzy’s Vodka Racing is one of many Fuzzy’s Vodka ventures. Last May I was meeting with friends, seated outside Dawson’s on Main, when the table next to us ordered a round of Fuzzy’s. It was ordered neat, on the rocks, and dirty. It took us a second to realize we were seated next to racing notables including Mari Hulman George, Chairman of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. I don’t want to talk out of turn because I don’t know what Mrs. George ordered. What I do know is this group was supporting their own. Our table followed suit and ordered Fuzzy’s.

Back to this Funny Little Car

If you can name this car—the padfolio is yours. And if you don’t need it I’m sure you know someone who does. So…what is this car?

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