Projects Have Boundaries, Wayfinding Does Not
Recently, I had several conversations with clients about how they are integrating wayfinding into their multi-phased or multi-location based projects. Often the wayfinding is tied to an architectural or engineering contract, which makes sense from a procurement and collaboration perspective. Changes to the physical space will result in changes to the way people navigate it. Coordination is required to attach signs to the physical structure, and the cost of the physical signage is often part of the budget.
However, the visitors to a space do not see these project boundaries. If you don’t consider wayfinding outside project boundaries, you increase the risk of a disconnected system. A discounted system could look like inconsistent nomenclature used signs, maps or digital products, inconsistent placement strategy, or differences in graphic approach. All of these could affect the visitor experience and result in people getting confused, lost, feeling frustrated, or all of the above.
So how do you make sure this doesn’t happen: create a Wayfinding Master Plan. These plans provide the strategic foundation for how, what, and where wayfinding is utilized. Guidelines, structures, aesthetic qualities, placement strategies, and system requirements are all part of the master plan that will guide all future wayfinding decisions within any architectural or engineering project.
The strategic integration points of a plan include the circulation framework, spatial organization, identity and placemaking, and infrastructure planning. They are crucial for efficient resource allocation, coordinating infrastructure systems, incorporating sustainability and resilience strategies, aligning stakeholders, creating a regulatory framework, adapting to change, and fostering economic development. By mapping out development phases and priorities, master plans help organizations make informed investment decisions and prevent costly mistakes.
More Than Guidelines
Just like wayfinding is more than signs, wayfinding master plans are more than the signage guidelines. In fact, a guidelines program may not even be part of the final recommendations. Since wayfinding programs require multiple navigational tools as people absorb and read information differently, static signage, digital real time content, maps, information systems and customer service agents are all a part of the audit as they all play a key role in the components of a wayfinding program. The program must also consider language capabilities, taking into account the stress as it impacts cognitive load of the location, and providing multiple ways to access the information based on neurodivergence and inclusivity. All these are considerations when developing a fully accessible and universal wayfinding master plan.
Contributions and Ownership
A successful wayfinding master plan requires collaboration across multiple disciplines and key stakeholders. The core professional team typically includes the wayfinding specialists and specialized consultants, such as accessibility consultants, lighting designers, digital experience designers, and brand strategists. These collaborators contribute key insights into the effectiveness of the communication for the variety of users. Implementation partners, including fabricators, installers, construction teams, and technology vendors, also play a critical role. Early and continuous collaboration among these consultants ensures the integration of navigation considerations into the planning process.
The key stakeholders may include property owners that focus on vision, identity, concerns, budget, phasing, and success metrics. Facility managers who provide reports on navigation issues, congestion, operational needs, maintenance, and updates. End users are surveyed about navigation experiences, challenging points, critical information, and accessibility. And municipal officials can provide insights on code requirements, heritage considerations, permits, and integration with city-wide systems.
Cross-cutting questions for all stakeholders include top wayfinding priorities, effective existing systems, technology integration, balancing aesthetics with clarity, and adaptation to future changes. These questions help gather comprehensive insights and ensure the wayfinding master plan aligns with diverse needs and broader project objectives. Overall, the document emphasizes the importance of integrating wayfinding considerations early and thoroughly into the master planning process for creating effective and user-friendly environments.
Comprehensive and Cohesive
The master plan approach serves as a comprehensive framework that will guide development over time, establishing a unified vision and ensuring cohesive growth. Overall, the results include improved user experience, allowing people to navigate environments confidently without frustration or disorientation. Clear wayfinding provides enhanced safety, supporting emergency evacuations and assisting first responders. Increased accessibility results from properly planned wayfinding, which accommodates diverse users, including those with disabilities. The economic benefits are shown as well placed wayfinding encourages exploration and can increase commercial activity. Cohesive wayfinding strengthens place identity by reinforcing a place’s character and brand. This is why wayfinding master plans play a crucial role as the “connective tissue” that helps people navigate built environments.