Wayfinding Signs 101: A Guide For Business Owners

25 March 2016
 Categories: , Blog

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Keeping your customers in the know about how to navigate in and around your business property is just one part of being a responsible business owner, but it is not uncommon for some to disregard this fact. If you own a business that is larger than most, containing several floors or even a massive ground floor layout and parking area, your customers need to be able to easily navigate the premises. Wayfinding signs are an easy way to make sure that your customers can easily get around when they pay you a visit. 

Exactly what are wayfinding signs?

Wayfinding signs are signs that are designed with the primary purpose of helping customers or visitors find their way around a building. These signs usually contain pictures or symbols that the average person will relate to specific points of interest, such as restrooms, exits, certain offices, or even varying departments within a store. The signs usually include directional arrows that let people know which path to take so they can get where they need to be within a building without feeling lost. 

Where should wayfinding signs be placed in a business?

Wayfinding signs should be placed in pertinent areas around and inside of your business where customers will naturally be looking for directions. For example, if your parking area is rather expansive, wayfinding signs should be posted in spots where most drivers will take note, such as at the entrance. Inside your building, signs should be placed near the entrance to every level at the least, but could also be useful in other areas, such as near restrooms. 

Is there a specific way that wayfinding signs should be designed?

Do not make the mistake of assuming that just throwing together a basic sign will suffice when it comes to wayfinding signage. When you are in the process of designing wayfinding signs for your business, there are several things that you should keep in mind:

  1. Make sure your signs are easily visible, with contrasting colors and large-enough lettering. 
  2. Keep in mind that many customers will pay more attention to symbols and directional arrows than to text. 
  3. Your signs should complement the color scheme of your business, but still stand out. 

By following these three simple rules, the wayfinding signs you end up with will be much more effective, as well as aesthetically pleasing. For help with creating your new wayfinding signs, contact a company like Sign Services Inc.