Navigating an unfamiliar place – especially for the first time – can be daunting. There’s a risk of getting lost, wasting time, and being frustrated when you don’t know where you’re supposed to go. This is why wayfinding signs are essential to any location or space.
There are four main types of outdoor and indoor wayfinding signs that are necessary for all businesses to have. In this blog, we will get to know them better, from what they are to how impactful they are.
Identification Signs
As the name suggests, these signs are used to identify a location, room, or space. They help people better understand where they are. The sense of familiarity makes it easier to go from point A to point B.
There are several types of identification office wayfinding signs, including:
- Building Signs
- Monument Signs
- Lobby Signs
- Door Signs
While some of these signs don’t provide directions, they help to identify a building, business, or space, which can reassure individuals that they have arrived at the right place.
Directional Signs
These signs provide the necessary information to guide customers around your space. They typically contain directional cues, whether written or visual, that point people towards where they need to go. Here are some examples of these signs:
- Arrow Signs: Point customers in the right direction, whether to the place or room they’re looking for, with clear arrows.
- Exit Signs: These signs guide customers toward building exits, as well as emergency exits. They are vital in the event of an emergency and for general wayfinding.
Informational Outdoor and Indoor Wayfinding Signs
Informational signs display important information about an area or location. They are different from identification signs, as they provide additional knowledge that guides people’s experience around your space.
For instance, hotels have signs that indicate their available amenities, such as the gym, pool area, and various restaurants. Retail stores also display important information, including business hours, addresses, and hiring inquiries. Office wayfinding signs help to address frequent questions before they’re even asked.
Regulatory Wayfinding Signs
Also known as compliance signs, these signs guide customers’ behavior while inside your space. Not only do they contribute to the health and safety of your facility, but they also display rules and restrictions that need to be followed. A lot of these signs are mandated by the ADA, the OSHA, the city, and more. They keep customers and employees safe while protecting you from any potential liabilities.
ADA wayfinding signs are an excellent example. These signs are required by law to ensure people with disabilities can navigate any space safely. Another kind of regulatory sign is a caution door sign, which prevents unauthorized people from entering a restricted room like high-voltage rooms or employee-only spaces.
Invest in Wayfinding Signs for Your Business
Wayfinding signage plays an indispensable role in helping people navigate their surroundings, whether they are in a large city, a busy hospital, or a national park.
If you’re looking to ease your customers’ experiences with the installation of wayfinding signage, work with Visual Signs and Graphics. Our team are experienced at creating a cohesive and effective signage system that makes journeys through unfamiliar spaces more enjoyable. Contact us today for more information or to discuss your needs with a signage specialist.