Wayfinding signage is an example of a visual cue, such as signs, maps and symbols, designed to help people navigate through various physical spaces. Wayfinding signs are used as a way of encouraging and directing customers and they come in all different shapes and sizes! Keep reading to learn about some of the different types of wayfinding signs.
What is a wayfinding sign?
Wayfinding signs are visual aids that help people find their way in unfamiliar spaces such as hospitals, shopping centres, universities or nature reserves. They can include words and symbols to aid navigation while helping reduce stress and anxiety associated with getting lost. There are four main types of wayfinding signs:
Identification
These signs label a particular location or space, such as room numbers, building names, or toilet signs. They help users confirm that they’ve arrived at their desired destination.
Directional Signs
These signs guide users to specific locations or facilities. They include arrows or paths indicating the direction to reach a particular destination.
Informational
These signs give users essential details about the environment or surroundings, such as maps, directories, or guidelines.
Regulatory
These signs convey rules, regulations, or safety information that must be followed within a space, like “No Smoking” or “Authorised Personnel Only” signs.
Different types of directional signs can guide visitors effectively through your space. Each serves a unique purpose and can be customised to fit the environment. Whether you’re guiding vehicles and pedestrians or providing information in outdoor settings, the following types of directional signage offer versatile solutions to enhance navigation and user experience. Here are examples of 5 wayfinding signage types:
Directional signs
These signs are typically used to direct passing vehicles or pedestrians and can be customised to reflect your company’s brand identity or colours. Depending on your preferences, they can be made of metal or wood.
Fingerposts
Fingerposts are taller structures that usually feature several pointers in various directions. They often feature the distance to the destination, commonly found in the countryside. They can be made using either wood, metal or recycled plastic aluminium, depending on your preference.
Ladder signs
These signs list a range of destinations in one particular area, helping visitors navigate large spaces quickly and easily. They are made of multilayered panels and use arrows to direct visitors to the listed location. Ladder signs are ideal for both vehicle users and visitors on foot.
Waymarking discs
Waymarking discs are small, circular plaques that direct visitors using arrows and other symbols. They are often found on stiles, fences, or fixed onto posts but can also indicate cycle paths and footpaths. They are usually made from plastic or metal, allowing them to be easily attached to surfaces.
Waymarking posts
Waymarking posts are typically found in natural spaces and outdoor environments. Aside from providing navigational aid, they are also used to indicate the presence of a certain animal.
Which type of wayfinding signage is best suited for me?
It is important to pinpoint the purpose of the wayfinding signage before considering its durability, environment, location, and atmosphere. Not all types of wayfinding signage are suitable for all environments, so it is important to consider all factors when deciding which type to choose.
When deciding which type of wayfinding sign to use, the outdoor space where it will be positioned needs to be considered. Here are some things to consider.
The atmosphere of your space
The atmosphere of your outdoor space can significantly influence your choice of signage. Metal directional signs may be ideal for a more corporate or contemporary look, while a traditional fingerpost or waymarking sign might better suit an outdoor setting. Each type of wayfinding sign can provide a different look and feel for the space, helping to shape the overall atmosphere of the area.
The location
The location of your sign should differ depending on its location. This includes the size, style and material. For example, if your business is in a business park, a ladder sign could be a good choice to help customers find your business and know where to park.
Indoor
Indoor wayfinding signage is common in retail, hospitals, hotels, offices, museums, stadiums, airports, and campuses, helping to improve the overall guest or customer experience. Overhead signage is common in retail stores for better visibility, whereas simple, informative directional signs may work best in a hotel or hospital environment.
Outdoor
For an outdoor environment like an open space, park or tourist attraction, traditional fingerpost signs could add a nice touch to the space whilst ensuring individuals feel safe and knowledgeable about where they are.
Regardless of the space, whether indoors or outdoors, it is important to consider the atmospheric conditions, as some signage materials are designed to better withstand certain climates than others. Don’t forget that you can mix and match wayfinding signage options to provide the most suitable navigation for your space.
How can Born Digital help?
At Born Digital, we understand that effective wayfinding signage is crucial for creating intuitive and navigable environments. Our approach to wayfinding signage design is rooted in clarity, functionality, and aesthetics, ensuring that every visitor can easily find their way with confidence and ease, whether they’re navigating a hospital, college, or entire city.
With decades of experience across various projects, Born Digital has mastered the ability to help thousands of people get precisely where they need to go. Contact us today to discuss your upcoming projects and see how we can help with your architectural wayfinding needs.