Wayfinding Signs

Wayfinding Signs are an important component to a successful road network. Their main function is to guide, or otherwise direct users to their desired destinations. In many cases, the wayfinding signs used in the US can be seen on roads such as I-35W, I-Pass, or other expressways in urban areas. While many highways and freeways already have signage in place to help drivers and pedestrians find their way, there are still many other ways through which a good signage system may be employed to improve the efficiency with which drivers get from point A to point B.

This led to the formation of the American Transportation Display Association (ATA), which set out in November 2021 to standardize the identification of transportation routes. In doing so, the standards would ensure that point-to-point identification was consistent across the United States. The group ultimately preferred four types of identification signs for use in the United States: magnetic signs, electronic magnetic signs, portable magnetic signs, and wayfinding signs. Each of these categories falls under a broad umbrella of general purpose signage.

Magnetic Wayfinding Signs. Magnetic directional signs can be either electronic or magnetic. This refers to how the sign is attracted to a magnet when in the air. While there are a number of businesses that offer this service in different formats, magnetic signs tend to be easier to read, thus making them more effective and less costly.

Electronic Wayfinding Signs. An electronic wayfinding sign usually uses a touch screen interface. These signs are best used in places where access to a map is minimal, such as in interior spaces or outdoor spaces. There are four types of electronic signage currently available; touch screen displays, LED, infrared, and radio frequency Identification tags.

Indoor Signage. Indoor signage is mostly necessary indoors, i.e. inside of retail stores and other businesses where it would benefit from easy-to-see directional signs. Some indoor signs may also serve as an invitation to guests, indicating where they should go for certain services or goods. For example, restaurant wayfinding signs may indicate a place to dine.

Touch Screen Wayfinding Signs. A touch screen means the signage can be controlled by a person's finger instead of a keyboard or mouse. Touch screen directional signage was initially designed for use indoors, but because of their ease of use and low cost, they are now becoming more widespread in outdoor event spaces as well. There are several different styles of touch screen wayfinding signs available. Some of these are manual push buttons, automated push buttons, infrared directional signs, and magnetic signs.

Window Graphics. The use of signs is just one part of an effective wayfinding but adding window graphics can make all the difference. Graphics allow people to read the message much more readily than text. Some examples of popular graphics used in event signage are business signs, street signs, festival signs, and festival displays.

Floor Decals. Some floor decals are meant to provide directions, while others are used to emphasize architectural features of buildings, trees, etc. Other popular floor decals are vehicle floor decals, festival signs, and company signs. These are just some of the many ways that floor decals can be used to supplement or enhance outdoor signage.

Identification Signs. An identification sign is used to provide information about an object. It serves as a name tag, or as a piece of ID in a wallet or on a belt or key chain. Many corporations and organizations have identification signage to identify employees. Most identification signage is either an electronic system, such as fingerprint recognition, or a physical form, such as bar code scanning.

Informational Signage. One of the most common forms of informational signage is to provide general tips and instructions. Some popular informational signs include restaurant guidelines, first aid instructions, first aid station guidelines, or directions to specific locations. These types of signs are usually placed inside waiting rooms and around entryways. Waitresses and other customers usually line up outside of the waiting room waiting to receive instructions and tips. Interactive informational signage, such as information boards, are also commonly found in hospitals, airports, schools, government buildings, and other establishments.

Wayfinding signs are essential elements of the design of any establishment. When properly implemented, they can help draw customers in, increase revenue, and improve efficiency. Wayfinding signage is especially useful in the process of moving people through a physical location. Effective wayfinding signage helps minimize wait times, and make the journey into and from a place of business easier and more pleasant for everyone.