Live from CVC West: Improving curb appeal November 2, 2008 By: Dan Chapel, AIA

The first things clients see when they approach your practice is the sign. In this audio clip from CVC West, architect Dan Chapel gives tips for making your sign work for you.

Cross the finish line with style June 1, 2005 By: Katherine Bontrager

Show off your new building or renovation by hosting an open house.

"No one can find my practice!" October 1, 2001 By: Sarah A. Moser

Q. I've owned a small animal practice in a suburb for nearly a year, and business is fair. There's one big problem, though: No one can find my practice. It's not on a main thoroughfare or a corner lot, so we don't attract many new clients--if any--from drive-by traffic. Even my established clients complain the hospital's too far off the beaten path. Are we sunk in this location? Is there anything we can do to try and make it work?

Getting attention in a strict strip mall April 1, 2001 By: Sarah A.Chadwick, assistant editor

Q. I lease space in a strip mall that imposes strict regulations on signage. For instance, my sign must sit flush against the building and not stick up above the roof, I have to use muted colors, and it must say "Veterinary Hospital" instead of my clinic name. Without a distinct building and sign, how can I make my presence known?

Look through clients' eyes August 1, 2000 By: Dan Chapel, AIA

If you come to work every day, park in back, and hurry in the staff entrance, you may be missing out on the little things that detract from clients' impressions of your facility. To identify areas where your practice falls short, look at your hospital the way pet owners do. Here's a guide: