What is Wayfinding?
Wayfinding is a visitor guidance and information system, the elements of which are placed in the physical space to help guide people through the space and to identify the places and functions within the space.
Wayfinding is the process of using spatial and environmental information to navigate towards a destination. To accomplish this, one needs to know:
- where we are now,
- where we want to go,
- how to get there.
What is the purpose of wayfinding?
The main purpose of wayfinding is to help you find your way around in a physical environment. Of course, this can also be done at different depths.
Wayfinding and its elements are essential elements of a space that have an impact on the facility and the people who visit it. With a well-thought-out intuitive visitor wayfinding system, designers can optimise layout, increase productivity, improve safety and security, and fully comply with regulatory requirements, in addition to improving overall flow.
Perhaps one of the best examples of a complex wayfinding system are the signs of the Highway Code. While driving, especially at high speeds, we have to make decisions every second, based on clear markings. This, we believe, illustrates the essence of wayfinding, which is the use, shaping and design of visual cues and spatial elements to create the desired flow pattern.
In addition to basic visitor management systems, wayfinding aims to achieve a spatial user experience. The design of a custom wayfinding system offers a functional response to the environment while absorbing the identity of the space or brand and adding to the overall picture.
Gone are the days of sterile, unimaginative facilities with endless corridors. Design elements help transform spaces (shops, parks, workspaces) into living environments, increasing productivity and creating a positive atmosphere. Wayfinding elements not only increase efficiency, but also contribute to the creation of attractive spaces, thus increasing the attractiveness of the space.
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The historical roots and development of wayfinding
- Historically, wayfinding refers to the techniques used by travellers. There used to be less marked - and, of course, there was a time when one had to find one's way around with completely unmarked - and often misleading - markings.
- There are many techniques that are still in active use today. These include the use of compasses and 'offline' maps, astronomical positioning, and of course the knowledge and interpretation of signs and markers - wayfinding systems - among other possibilities.
- Global Positioning System (GPS) is the most common way to find your way around today.
Types of wayfinding
Identification: indicates arrival at the destination and provides general information.
Identification signs are the most commonly used form of wayfinding elements. They are used for general wayfinding, helping people to know where they are, so they know how to proceed if necessary. They also provide information about the function of the space, what to expect while you are there, and what activities can or cannot be carried out in the area.
The aim of the identification signs is to be transparent, concise and easy to understand.
- Examples: „John Doe” office; Women's/Men's toilets
Directional Signs: Helping you reach your destination.
Directional signs guide people to their intended destinations. They act like an invisible hand, leading you step by step from point A to point B. These signs are especially useful in areas where the traffic flow is not obvious, such as at intersections or junctions.
Anyone unfamiliar with their surroundings benefits from directional signs. The solution can be simple, like marking destinations at every fork in the road, directing people correctly based on their goals. Alternatively, it can be continuous, such as colored lines on the floor that guide people directly to their destination.
In the case of directional signs, continuity is key. If a person gets lost—or rather, if recurring confusion is observed at a specific point between two points where directional signs are used—it indicates that the installed wayfinding system is faulty.
- Examples: Buffet icon with an arrow pointing left; "Exit" sign with an arrow pointing right.
Information signs: provide general information about the building or area.
While identification signs indicate a specific area, information signs refer to the facilities as a whole. These signs provide partial information during navigation. For example, a sign may indicate the presence of an organization from a distance.
Information signs should typically be placed in an area where they are clearly visible from a distance. Examples of common locations include busy roads, building facades, lobbies, reception areas, waiting rooms, entrances, etc.
- Examples: Burger King logo pylon signage.
Regulatory signs: for safety and regulatory purposes.
These elements focus on safety, responsibility, setting boundaries - what is acceptable and what is not in a given area.
Regulatory signs are usually large and prominent - nothing unnecessary - just a clear, concise and emphatic message. No one is likely to open a locker with a sign that says "Caution! High Voltage!"
- Common examples include rules and regulations (No smoking!), compliance standards (Safety glasses must be worn!), and access control (No strangers allowed!)
Wayfinding system design process
When developing a signage system for an area, building or architectural structure, it is essential to develop a strategic wayfinding system. This step allows the creation of a modular wayfinding system that is flexible to the environment and human navigation needs. User needs and space constraints will be taken into account to create an intuitive experience. In doing so, we create a wayfinding system that effectively helps people navigate while harmonising with the environment and users' expectations.
Research is an essential step in understanding the environment and assessing where the need for information arises to get started. It helps to determine the optimal placement and features in the wayfinding system to effectively help people navigate.
A wayfinding system may include elements such as:
- maps,
- pictograms,
- inscriptions,
- signs,
- wall and floor paintings,
- lighting,
- digital displays.
The combination of these elements forms an information system that is critical and indispensable for larger, more complex buildings such as:
- airports,
- shopping centres,
- shops (supermarket, mall, mall, etc.),
- government buildings,
- stadiums,
- offices,
- museums,
- factories,
- and other large-scale facilities.
The benefits of good wayfinding
- Clearly designed and positioned wayfinding systems help visitor flow and improve the overall visitor experience. This applies not only to customers or visitors, but also to employees.
- Information systems enhance security and accessibility while improving the user experience and reducing confusion.
From a non-business perspective:
- Safety and security: wayfinding systems play a crucial role in emergency situations by directing users to exits, evacuation routes or security facilities.
- Time efficiency: An effective wayfinding system saves time by providing clear directions and information on the shortest and easiest routes.
- Reduced stress and anxiety: Clear and effective wayfinding systems alleviate the stress and anxiety associated with getting lost or feeling disoriented. Users can navigate confidently with the right amount of easily accessible information, knowing they can comfortably reach their destination.
- Positive user experience: a well-designed visitor guidance system improves the overall user experience by making navigation intuitive and user-friendly. It creates a positive impression of the environment and contributes to user satisfaction.
- Optimal Space Utilization: effective wayfinding can direct users to less crowded or underutilized areas, helping to distribute foot traffic and balance the occupancy within the facility. This optimizes the use of available space, ensuring that all areas are effectively utilized.
- Enhanced Accessibility: accessibility is a crucial aspect of designing wayfinding systems. Well-designed systems consider the needs of individuals with mobility impairments or special requirements, providing inclusive navigation options and features. This ensures that everyone can navigate the space comfortably and efficiently.
From a Business Perspective
- Brand Building and Identity: A custom wayfinding system can incorporate brand elements such as colors and visual cues that reinforce an organization's or space's identity. It plays a significant role in brand building and strengthening identity by emphasizing the unique characteristics and style of the organization or space.
- Promoting Discoverability: Wayfinding systems can highlight points of interest, amenities, or important destinations within the environment. Users can easily find target areas such as restrooms, information desks, shops, or specific attractions, thereby enhancing the overall experience.
Custom design and manufacturing can help meet the needs of different environments and maximise the user experience.
The Process of a Wayfinding Project
Survey
We study the space and its documentation, as well as the client's needs, to create a draft that meets functional and aesthetic requirements.
Graphic Design
While functionality is the primary focus for wayfinding systems, we also prioritize unique solutions, ensured by our award-winning design team and our outstanding custom manufacturing in the Central-Eastern European region. The design process includes the styling of wayfinding system elements and components, aligning with the branding guidelines, user requirements, and the building's interior design.
Presentation & Finalization
We present several graphic designs of the wayfinding system, and the client's chosen design is then moved forward to technical planning.
Manufacturing & Installation of the Wayfinding System
The entire manufacturing process is conducted in-house, which significantly impacts testing and project turnaround time. Our designers are just a few meters away from our 8,000-square-meter manufacturing facility, allowing them to check the quality and production speed at any time to ensure everything proceeds as planned.
During installation, we set up the elements. Finally, once everything is in place, we conduct a final on-site inspection with the client.
