A hospital in Newberg recently contacted our team at FASTSIGNS® of Louisville, KY for the design, manufacture, and installation of a comprehensive wayfinding system. The project’s focus was to provide direction and guidance for patients, staff, and visitors throughout the hospital’s campus.
We worked closely with the hospital’s staff to understand their needs and develop a solution to meet their functional and aesthetic requirements. The result was a custom wayfinding system including a variety of signs. The new wayfinding system has been well-received by the hospital’s staff and patients and has made it easier for everyone to navigate the hospital. So now we are looking to help other medical facilities. This article covers the benefits and types of signs used in a wayfinding system.
What is Wayfinding?
Wayfinding is the process of orienting oneself and navigating from one place to another. A wayfinding system is a comprehensive network of signs and other informational elements to help people navigate their surroundings.
Why Use Wayfinding Systems?
- Improved safety: Clear and consistent signs help people find their way safely and avoid getting lost.
- Reduced stress: Wayfinding systems help reduce the stress and anxiety caused by getting lost or feeling disoriented.
- Enhanced customer experience: Wayfinding systems improve the overall customer experience by making it easier for people to find their way.
- Increased efficiency: Wayfinding systems assist people in getting where they need to go more quickly and efficiently, saving time and lowering frustration.
- Improved branding: A well-designed wayfinding system will reinforce the facility’s brand and help create a positive impression of the business.
Types of Signs Used in Wayfinding Systems
There are many different types of signs used in wayfinding systems, and the best types of signs for the medical facilities needs will depend on specific goals and requirements. Some of the most common types of signs used in wayfinding systems include:
- Directional signs are used to assist people to navigate a building and help them locate specific destinations. They are placed inside or outside buildings, typically hung from ceilings, mounted on walls, and placed on floors.
- Informational signs help communicate facts about a building or location. They provide directions, hours of operation, contact information, and more. Hospitals commonly use them near elevators, stairwells, entrances, and exits.
- Identification Signs label buildings, landmarks, and other important locations and areas. They are typically placed on the exterior of buildings and interior walls.
- Regulatory signs provide information about what is and isn’t allowed at the hospital. “No Smoking” is an example of a regulatory sign.
Interested in learning more about wayfinding systems and how they will benefit your hospital? Contact our sign experts at FASTSIGNS® of Louisville, KY. We specialize in custom wayfinding solutions tailored to any specific needs and goals.
