Issue link: https://nbm.uberflip.com/i/1451373
G R A PH I C S - PR O.C O M 2 0 2 2 J U N E G R A P H I C S P R O 5 9 each install, you take note of things that need to be replaced, relled, or repaired. PROPER TOOLS Having proper tools is an extension of being prepared by having your workspace cleaned and stocked. Having the right tools for the job includes the obvious ones like squeegees, snap knives, air release tools, heat sources, install gloves, scissors, tape, and cleaning prod- ucts. It's also important to have lad- ders, step ladders, scaolding, and install platforms that allow you to do larger installs safely. If you do a lot of installs, you've probably added these items as you go, but be sure to think through an install ahead of time to ensure you'll have everything you need. Consider those specialty tools too. Rolling tools for concave areas, rivet brushes, small plastic tucking tools, and tools for removing emblems and parts are specialized items, but they can make a big dierence in the eciency of the installation. I'm primarily focusing on ve- hicle installs but installing window graphics or signs outside of the shop involves the same scheduling, plan- ning, preparation, and tools. We have a window trimming tool from Yellow Tools that we use for our on-site window perf installs. It's a quick and easy way to get clean edges, especially along exible rubber window seals. INSTALL DAY If we're going out on an install, we typically conrm the install either the day before or just before we go out. Our graphics or signs are ready to go, and we have a stocked install kit. We check in with the customer if they'll be on-site during the install, and then make sure we leave the site cleaned and wiped down. If the installation is at our shop, which usually means it's a vehicle, we have planned steps that we go through to en- sure it's a smooth, ecient process. If a customer is waiting for the vehicle because it's a simple spot graphic job, they usually wait in our lobby or walk up the street to a nearby sandwich shop. This is not how we like vehicles to come in, but occasion- ally, this is what we get. Talk with the customer and be sure you cover the extra labor that comes with cleaning.