Signbase, an emerging company with operations in the Netherlands and Raleigh, says its “wayfinding” technology enables “smart signage” at conventions, trade shows and other places where people are provided live directional and program information.

Signbase is among the some 90 startup and emerging entrepreneurial companies set to present at the CED Tech Venture conference next week.

This profile is the latest in a series of those presenting companies. The Q&As are the result of a partnership between the CED and WRAL TechWire.

The Q&A:

  • What is the focus of your business?

Wayfinding – A software and method for smart signage with “live” directional and program information for conference centers.

  • What is the top pain point/business application you are seeking to address?

How to get from A to B without getting lost?

Signbase offers a flexible software solution for serving your audience. Wayfinding information is clearly displayed on strategically positioned displays to guide visitors and direct them on location. This results in real-time views of “what’s starting soon” and “what’s happening now”.

Content can be easily planned upfront and, if necessary, edited on-the-fly in the browser of your own device. Improves interaction with audience, creates new business models and reduces time waiting in lines for concessions.

  • What makes it unique?

Information ergonomics. We are city planners, architects and data scientists who pioneer digital wayfinding. SignBase makes maps for conference centers, connecting urban districts and hotels.

Our information design and methods for enhancing public interaction are focused on signage; the mobile phone is secondary.

We’ve partnered with the best airport and museum wayfinding expert and conducted numerous studies proving an 80% or higher visibility rate of information on our signage by passers.

  • Why should investors be interested in your firm?

We believe that tradeshows and conferences are the quintessential places for business development and inspiration; SignBase celebrates that and wants to maximize attendees’ aspirations. We also think the Internet has been great at connecting us to the world, but not necessarily to our neighbor and physical proximity.

Co-founders Carl Kerchman and Jesse Lavalaye have been developing and perfecting wayfinding since 2012.

SignBase has a growing business in Amsterdam (NL) and is now positioning itself in NC.

Business facts:

  • Website – https://signbase.io/
  • Email address for inquiries – cwkerchm@ncsu.edu
  • Physical address – HQ Raleigh, 310 S. Harrington Street Raleigh, NC 27603
  • CEOs –  Carl Kerchmar (USA) Jesse Lavalaye (NL)