An unfamiliar environment can be unnerving for some people. For people like this, it is not just because they are new to the environment, but sometimes, it has something to do with the fear of getting lost.
This is one of the many reasons wayfinding signage for interior is important. When utilized properly, these signs can give visitors the feeling of being familiar with the building even though they had only stepped into it some seconds ago.
This is why these signs are among the most ideal things business owners need to invest in for their buildings to ensure their customers’ satisfaction. But there is so much you need to know about these signs. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about them. This way, you will know what you are dealing with when you decide to invest in them for your building.
Wayfinding Signage – What Exactly Is It?
Any sign that people can look at and get direction from can be classified as wayfinding signage. These signs are typically put in place so that customers can locate their way. They often don’t contain unnecessary or lengthy explanations.
They can either be used outside or inside the building. When they are used inside the building, they are considered interior wayfinding signage.
Why Are They Important?
Below are some of the major benefits your business stands to gain when proper interior wayfinding signage is used:
1. Navigating Your Facility is Easier
This is perhaps the biggest reason wayfinding signage is important in any building. When used properly, wayfinding signage can help people navigate a facility without having to ask anyone for directions.
If people still have issues navigating your facility despite of your wayfinding signage efforts, then chances are your efforts aren’t good enough. Find out why people are still confused and get experts to tackle these issues.
2. Provide Better Service for Your Customers
You will agree with us that your customer’s satisfaction is paramount to your business. Visit https://www.indeed.com/ to find out more about customer satisfaction and its importance.
When you properly use directional signs in your facility, you will not just help your customers navigate the facility better, but you will also make them feel good. Having professional, clear, and easy-to-understand signs will help your customers find what they want without getting frustrated in their search.
They will know that their experience is important to you, and their loyalty to your brand will be increased.
3. You can Promote Your Brand with Them
You can infuse the signs with your brand’s theme and logo thereby supporting your brand consistency. Your customers will become more familiar with your brand with this approach.
Types
There are four main types of interior wayfinding signage:
1. Directional Signs
These are typically used to give directions so that people can find specific areas inside the building. They lead people every step of the way until they get to where they’re headed.
2. Informational Signs
These are put in place to provide information to people while they navigate. Examples are bathroom, exits, and cafeteria signs.
3. Identification Signs
These are used to inform customers of the location they are at and what they’re going to find there. Perfect examples of these are door plaques and department markers.
4. Regulatory Signs
These are used to set boundaries in buildings. They tell people what is and isn’t acceptable in the building or that particular area. They are also used to ensure safety by establishing safety standards.
Some examples are “employees only”, “danger”, and “no-smoking”. The “no-smoking” sign is a very popular one and you most likely have seen it in many buildings. You can read this article to learn more about the smoking ban.
Tips to Consider
Ensure the following are considered in your wayfinding signage efforts:
- It must be concise
- Assumptions should be eliminated
- Creativity
- Consistency
- Be considerate
Conclusion
Interior wayfinding signage is very important when it comes to helping people find their way in buildings. As a business owner, these signs also provide benefits for your business including ensuring customer satisfaction. There are several types of interior wayfinding signage and each is used to serve specific purposes. To ensure they serve their specific purpose in your building, make sure they are concise, creative, consistent, and considerate.
