Wayfinding signs and Directory signs – more than marketing!

Way Finding Architecture signs are finally being integrated into more the greater communications realm.

A few years back, but not that long ago, when SignForce did the way finding signage for Morningside Medi-Clinic, a large private hospital in Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa, we did our best to make sure that all the signs on the premises – from when people drove into the parking area until they reached their desired doctor or other destination – was all integrated and clear, especially as there was a lot of renovations and construction taking place at the time.

I had been working on the project for about five months when I was standing in one of the many foyers, and watched as a number of people evidently searching for something. Being the nosy person I am I asked if I could assist, and all, bar none, were lost – so much for my boards and ego. They had followed our carefully planned signs, yet were didn’t feel like they had been helped at all. The challenge we had failed was leading people through the labyrinth of passages and stairs, without making the hospital look like the proverbial Christmas tree.

Today, with the advent of YouTube and so many other digital aids, this can be made so much easier. I was reading an article on LinkedIn, for a group titled Architectural Signage, and the writer (and subsequent comments) were chatting about what is being done at the Royal Melbourne Hospital where patients are issued with a letter when they book their procedure, and the letter refers to a web based video that can be watched so the patient’s can see where they are going in advance, reducing their stress on arrival. A similar video is also made available to visitors on site at the hospital.

What a brilliant concept. While this will certainly not remove, or even reduce, the need for way finding signs and directory boards, because of it’s integrated nature it is certain to make finding one’s way around any facility a lot simpler. And from the perspective of a sign maker, this is the first time I have come across any idea where technology and way finding and directory signs are integrated. I believe if designed and implemented correctly, the integrated approach can make visitors lives much simpler, possibly for no other reason than what is referred to as using the mind as a magnet – that is being prompted in advance what to look for.

SignForce’s is a full service sign company, and with our understanding of consulting, internet, design and signs, we are well positioned to assist you to integrate your way finding architecture and signs. Contact the writer now for more information.

Arnold N. Pollak

arnold@signforce.co.za

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Wayfinding sign, wayfinding signs, directory sign, directory signs, modular sign systems,

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Can You Have Too Many Signs?

When signs are too much

When signs are too much

A Simple Look at Store Signage and Hiking Trail Signs

Signs are everywhere in our lives. They help us find things, stay safe, and make decisions. But is it possible to have too much signage? Can too many signs actually confuse people instead of helping them? Let’s take a closer look at two places where signs are super important: Physical Stores and Hiking Trails.

Store Signage: Finding the Balance

When you walk into a store, signs are there to guide you. They tell you where the bathrooms are, highlight special deals, and help you find the right aisle for your needs. Good store signage is clear, easy to read, not overwhelming and can convert a warehouse into an inviting, warm shopping environment. But when there are too many signs, it can feel like chaos while leaving one feeling like you are being bombarded by visual pollution.

Imagine walking into a store and seeing a sign every two feet. One says “Sale Today!” while another says “Check Out Our New Items!” and another says “Exit This Way.” Instead of helping you, these signs make it hard to focus. You might miss the important directional signs because your brain is trying to process too much information.

The key is balance! Store owners need to think about what their customers really need to know. Too much signage can clutter the space and make shopping stressful. Clear, well-placed signs are always better than a dozen flashy ones. A great rule of thumb is the Rule Of Two. Giving a person ONLY TWO options will make them more likely to make a choice of ONE and leads to less confusion. Too much choice can sometimes be a negative thing.

Hiking Trails: Safety First, But Sill – Don’t Overdo It

On a hiking trail, clear, visible and accurate signage saves lives. The value of directional signs pointing you in the right direction, and warning signs warning you about dangers like steep cliffs or slippery paths can never be overstated.

This writer remembers a time when some people who thought they were funny turned crucial signs around on a national hiking trail that was on a cliff edge. It was very fortunate that the hikers that followed the incorrect signs only lost time and no-one was injured but the state did not see the humor of the fools that turned the signs around and as such they were each fined and were rewarded with a criminal record for their efforts.

That said, even for hiking trails, too many signs can be a problem.

Picture this: you’re hiking on a beautiful trail, but every few steps, there’s a sign. One says “Watch Out for Falling Rocks.” Another says “Trail Ahead.” Another says “Slippery When Wet.” While safety is important, too many signs can take away from the natural beauty of the trail. Worse, they can make hikers stop paying attention. If every tree has a sign, people might start ignoring all of them. There is also the risk that too many signs make hikers complacent because they feel they don’t need to think or pay too much attention because they are being ‘led’, until a few signs are missed and they land up on an incorrect path.

Good trail signage gives clear and essential information without overwhelming hikers. Directional signs should be placed where trails split, and safety signs should only appear where there’s real danger. This way, hikers stay informed but also enjoy their journey.

So What’s the Right Amount of Signage?

Whether it’s a store or a hiking trail, the right amount of signage depends on the situation. Here are a few tips for getting it right:

  1. Keep It Simple: Too many signs can confuse people. Focus on the most important messages.

  2. Be Strategic: Place directional signs where they’re needed most, like at isle ends, intersections or confusing areas.

  3. Think About the User: Put yourself in the shoes of a shopper or a hiker. What information would you need if this was the first time youj were walking in that area?

  4. Avoid Clutter: In both stores and nature, too many signs can be distracting or overwhelming.

Signs are tools to help people, but they work best when they’re simple, clear, and placed thoughtfully. Whether you’re designing store signage or marking hiking trails, remember: less is often more.

Final Thoughts

Signs and directional signs play a huge role in our daily lives. They guide us, keep us safe, and help us enjoy our experiences. But like so many thing is life, too much of a good thing can be a problem. By using signage wisely, we can make sure that people find their way without feeling lost in a sea of signs.

So next time you’re setting up signs, ask yourself or your sign professional: is this helping, or is it just adding noise? The answer will guide you in the right direction.

When you are looking for a sign professional contact SignForce on info@signforce.co.za or call +27 (0)11 440 7525 or WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413

For more about SignForce visit http://www.signforce.co.za

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