What is WayFinding Signage?
Posted by Gary Baron on Tue, Jul 19, 2011 @ 02:22 PM
Determining where to go can be a challenge for anyone visiting a new location, however this can be detrimental when they are visiting your business. Whether a small business or large facility, wayfinding signs can make the difference between a positive experience or wanting to just leave.
First called "Wayfinding" in the 1960's, this process has become an important part of both place-making and urban planning. Wayfinding improves circulation and directs visitor dollars where they have the most impact. Retail environments thrive when
wayfinding signs are used to help visitors easily find their way. Districts become popular destinations when a brand-supportive wayfinding system marks a clear path for visitors.
Wayfinding signage when properly displayed, provides visual and verbal cues to help people navigate throughout your location. Wayfinding signs are often designed to match a specific local by including aesthetically pleasing and matching color schemes or themes to present a unified appearance.
There are several questions to keep in mind when developing a wayfinding plan for your organization. He are some questions to ask when developing the overall plan.
- Directional signs should serve to...
- Directional signs should look like...
- Directional signs should be located...
- Other tips for locating directional signs...
In order to inform your visitors while avoiding sign clutter, directional signs should conform to the standards decided upon in your plan. With the proper combination of planning, design and branding, wayfinding signage can be as beautiful as it is functional. It will enhance an area’s character and sense of place for visitors and the local community.
If you would like our opinion on whether your wayfinding system is adequate or can be improved to make your business more visibility call 908-464-1700.
