Wayfinding Analysis and Programming

Wayfinding is about helping people find their way around a physical environment, such as an airport, hospital, or college campus. The main tools are strategically placed directional signs, building and room identifications, and "You Are Here" maps. THREE INGREDIENTS are essential for an effective wayfinding signage program: 1. attractive aesthetics 2. quality hardware 3. a solid understanding of the human factors of how people get confused and lost. Most wayfinding programs reflect only the first two. MY ROLE is to provide that missing third ingredient. Wayfinding signs are like pills: They're only as good as the diagnosis and prescription behind them. In fact, if the diagnosis and prescription are inappropriate, pills and signs can actually do more harm than good. I do the diagnosis and prescription. As an information designer, I understand how visitors get confused and how best to communicate to them the information they need where they need it. I have studied human factors, with an emphasis on wayfinding, at San Jose State University. I do the wayfinding analysis of a site and the programming to specify what information to provide where; graphic artists and/or I provide the art as appropriate; signmakers then fabricate and install the signs. WHY IT MATTERS: The sooner visitors feel they know their way around an environment, the sooner they feel comfortable and safe there. A clear, professionally planned wayfinding system conveys a warm sense of welcome and helps visitors quickly feel at home. It reassures them that they are in good hands, that the site manager respects them and their time enough to anticipate their needs and provide solutions. Beautiful signs are good; helpful signs are better. When all three ingredients are in place, visitors are happier, the staff wastes less time giving directions, and the whole operation runs more efficiently. By sparing visitors the anxiety of feeling lost or confused, a good wayfinding system frees them to focus on what brought them there in the first place. The result is a more pleasant experience, a more positive impression of the site, and a greater likelihood they’ll want to come again. John Boykin, Creative Director 650-802-9998; info@wayfind.com Comments on visual noise Comments on optimum placement of signs Comments on the problem of directories Home | Courtroom Graphics | Interaction Design | Visuals | Words

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