Wayfinding Theory

For this blog assignment, the information design theory I chose is the Wayfinding theory introduced by Romedi Passini.  Wayfinding in simplest terms is a set of design principles in making informational spaces easily and effectively navigable (Jacobson, 1999).   

There are key wayfinding principles that have proven to be effective. 

-          Using landmarks to provide the viewer some orientation. If the viewer is aware of a certain landmark it becomes easier for them to know their present location.

-          Provide decision-making/problem solving signs in certain locations that help in wayfinding decisions. Every location of a sign should serve as a function for the viewer.

-     Create linear and well-structured paths. Structured paths allow the viewer to become aware of the beginning and ending of a certain path.

  

    Easy to read fonts. This example demonstrates how san-serif fonts vs serif fonts can effect the viewer.  

Most importantly,

Too many navigational choices will only disorient a person.

 

It is without a doubt that every theory there are always pros and cons. The following chart expresses the pros and cons specifically associated towards the wayfinding theory.

 Passini stated, "If the content and the location of wayfinding information are determined by users' wayfinding decisions, its form and presentation relate to the way people perceive and recognize information displays" (Jacobson,1999).

Wayfinding signage for colleges and universities is a key component for making good impressions on prospective students and for helping those who are attending find their way around campus.

Examples of wayfinding signage often include exterior vehicular directories, light post banners, campus map directories, building identification signage, and pedestrian wayfinding signs.

In the following video created by Fresno State College is a great example of introducing their new wayfinding signs found across campus.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6sQOw_ZUOAg 

Embarking on an effective wayfinding design can be complex especially when information is needed to make certain decisions.  However, I feel that without these established theories we would be left with far to many directional options.  We are naturally drawn to understanding the functionality of directional signs in hopes of serving as a personal function in our every day lives. 

Works Cited

Jacobson, R. E. (1999). Information design. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press.

 

"Wayfinding Video." YouTube. YouTube, n.d. Web. 17 Oct. 2014. <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6sQOw_ZUOAg>.