Wayfinding is focused not only on directional and interpretive signage, but also on the creation of quality spaces that attracts users and encourages participation. It is about assisting people to ‘read’ and navigate an area through reinforcing structures, common patterns, rhythms and themes of an area.
Helping audiences find their way in an environment is achieved by a combination of Passive wayfinding and Active wayfinding.
Wayfinding systems in open spaces can be made intuitive, engaging and accessible, ensuring visitors have a positive and seamless experience. Refer to Open Space Design Public Art when planning bespoke wayfinding options.
General
- Design wayfinding elements that are intuitive and easy to understand.
- Use clear, universally recognised symbols (such as arrows, landmarks and icons) that make the path easy to follow without confusion.
- Establish a consistent visual style for all wayfinding elements, including signage, colour schemes, typography and iconography. Consistency ensures that users can easily recognise and understand wayfinding elements across the entire space.
- Avoid overloading signs or maps with unnecessary information. Keep the design simple and focused on the most relevant paths, destinations and key landmarks (i.e. reduce signage clutter where possible).
- Too many directions or competing design elements can overwhelm users and cause confusion.
- Provide both visual and textural cues to accommodate different users. Use signs with both words and symbols or diagrams that are easy to read and understand.
