How did Latitude Signage + Design evolve from a garage startup to full-service firm? In 1985, Tom and Diane Latimer started a small signage venture in their garage with a grounded ethos, “Take care of your customers and the rest will follow.” Four decades later, that philosophy continues to define Latitude Signage + Design under the leadership of CEO Michael McKeag. Now a 100-employee company, Latitude delivers full-service architectural signage for a wide range of environments. From wayfinding systems that help visitors locate departments and entrances to environmental graphics that reinforce identity, the work is about more than just brand expression. It is about the architectural environment of a building and ensuring each element aligns with materials, code, lighting, scale and movement through space. Architectural signage is integrated into collaborative planning with project teams rather than layered on after construction. “Clients often approach us during pivotal moments such as rebrands, expansions or complex multi-building projects,” says Todd Carey, VP of sales and marketing. “And we can do it all. Whether it’s design, manufacturing or installation, it’s all our people.” This confidence stems from a fully integrated design-build process that handles planning, design, manufacturing and installation under one roof. Collaboration. Integration. Execution. How does Latitude plan signage locations using architectural plans and regulatory code requirements? The process begins with reviewing architectural plans and recommending every location where a sign is needed based on local, state and national codes. During planning, the team develops detailed plans and sign message schedules outlining what each sign will say and where it will be placed. Conceptual designs follow, which allow clients to finalize the design direction that reflects both brand identity and architectural intent. Every signage solution balances creative vision with practical manufacturing considerations, ensuring the design works in its intended environment.

Why can permitting delays significantly impact construction timelines and project costs? Permitting can be expensive, time-consuming and capable of delaying the start of a project. For developers, contractors and retailers working on tight schedules, delays at the permitting stage can stall construction and increase carrying costs. Permits Express USA was built around that reality: securing the building permits so clients do not have to manage the process themselves. The company structures its work around one objective. Remove the administrative burden and help projects begin on schedule. Its model combines proprietary software and a proprietary process, a defined intake system and daily jurisdiction tracking to keep permit applications moving forward rather than sitting in review. Once a client engages, the team begins immediately, placing permitting at the top of the project list rather than treating it as a side task. “Our slogan is securing the building permits, so you don't have to,” says Bart Butler, Founder and CEO. “We focus on helping clients save time and keep projects on track.” A Structured Process from Intake to Approval How does a structured intake and tracking process improve permit approval efficiency? Every engagement begins with a permit application intake form that gathers detailed project information. That form drives the proposal and client service agreement. Once the deposit is processed, the team moves into due diligence, reviewing jurisdictional requirements and outlining a submission plan tailored to that municipality. The file is then worked on multiple times a day. Permits Express conducts daily tracking with the jurisdiction and provides weekly update calls with clients. This cadence ensures that questions are addressed quickly and that documentation reflects what each municipality requires, nothing more and nothing less. The focus is simple; give jurisdictions exactly what they ask for and keep the application active. The company also emphasizes relationship building. Through its nationwide network of associates, it maintains contact with local jurisdictions across the lower 48 states. Maryland and seven Mid-Atlantic states are managed directly from its home office, while associates assist in other regions. That structure allows it to support national clients while responding to localized regulations and code requirements. Specialist Focus Versus In-House Permitting Why might internal teams struggle with permitting compared to specialized external providers? Many organizations attempt to manage permitting internally using existing administrative staff. According to Butler, that approach often lacks dedicated attention. Employees handling multiple responsibilities may not have the time or expertise to follow up daily with jurisdictions or track evolving requirements. Permitting becomes one item among many rather than a priority.