Services

Where and when is a wayfinding analysis necessary        

Wayfinding analysis is very important in today’s society.  We at Way Forward contend that we are not in the sign business rather that we are in business of solving problems for our customers.

A wayfinding analysis requires resources, both time and personnel, therefore the projects must have a certain size and/or complexity before a wayfinding analysis should be considered.

The wayfinding analysis is the first link and should be completed before commencing with details such as sign design, method of sign construction and so forth.

Definitions 

Among experts a certain terminology is used in wayfinding.

The following paragraphs deal with some terms, which it would be practical to define.

 Circulation or Traffic (Flow, pattern)

The terms circulation and traffic flow describes the movements of the user in a certain area.  The users want to reach certain destinations.  Even when sightseeing the users have a certain goal in terms of where they want to go to and may want to return to the point of departure.   To reach an unknown destination, even to follow a well-known route, is a complex interactive process.

The circulation or traffic pattern is the number of routes which the user can use in a given area.

Circulation systems

When circulation is the sum of routes in a given area, the circulation system is the system or structure formed by these routes or the lack of same.

Wayfinding

The concept of wayfinding is defined as the methods, according to which the users reach given destinations.

Wayfinding is a spatial problem-solving process, including many elements: memory and learning, spatial conception, traditional and cultural backgrounds, fantasy, impression and systematics.

Cognitive map

The internal cognitive map is defined as the ability of a person to imagine a map of an area and to place himself in it.  It is a part of the subjective and simplified perception of the physical and nonphysical picture of the environment.

Spatial orientation

Spatial orientation is defined as the way a person perceives his location in his surroundings.  It is a measure of the mental ability to imagine where you are located in your surroundings.  Spatial orientation is connected with the cognitive mapping.

If you imagine the cognitive map  of Australia, most Australians know where they are if they are, for instance in Victoria. Then they know that they can travel a long distance without having to travel by ship.  They know their location in comparison to their surroundings, even without a map.  They have spatial orientation by means of their internal cognitive map.

 Area

Area is defined as the territory, the space, the area, the building complex or the precinct which is to be reviewed. The same principles and methods apply to interior as well as to exterior environments.

Destination

The final physical destination of the user. This can be compared to the destination in a journey by train or aircraft.

User

Users are persons who find their way through the use of the wayfinding system.  Users who are members of the staff and who – after a short period of time are familiar with the surroundings – are no longer considered as users.

Customer      

The customer is defined as the person who is responsible for the function of the wayfinding system in the area.

Locality  

The description of a physically limited part of the area. One or more localities can be destinations for the single user.

Destination zones

Indicate a group of destinations which together build a locality with common characteristics.

For example, a big division, more divisions with similar functions, a building within a complex of buildings, a floor etc.

 Plan-layout

Drawing showing the area as seen from above with  the roof and/or floors taken off.

Other designations: ground plan, floor plan, blueprints, horizontal plan.

 Wayfinding system

General designation of the system which makes wayfinding possible.  Also known as a Signplan.

Here we think of overall solutions which may comprise not only signs but also all other means of wayfinding.

 

These are the elements that we utilise to construct a Wayfinding Solution

Research and Analysis

Based on the Wayfinding solution a signage plan can be formulated by gathering the information from the research and the architectural footprint of the project. This is the basis of the commencement of the signplan

Strategic Planning

The signplan is generally created with strategic positioning of signs throughout a project.

Review for DDA

As there is mandatory and highly recommend signage required for facilities we use best practice for the placement and design of the signage.

Full Documentation

The signplan is created in a user friendly database that can be accessed by each client for review.

This documentation can then be formalised for issue signage contractors. This could be in the form of tender documents or for D&C contract.

Graphic Design

The design process is where we create the “look” of signage either to suit the corporate identity or a stylised format to suit the environment. This can be done as simple colour illustrations, 3D illustrations or photographic illustrations. This also includes for logos, artwork and typography.

Sign Type

Each sign needs to be specific for its needs. So we prepare a suite of sign types to create a family of signs designed to be uniform but specific for its needs. The sign type design and construction method is done at this point.

Reviews

With any database or design document continual reviews are required prior to the final document being released.

Cost Estimation

With our previous manufacturing background we are able to provide precise estimates for any project works. This assists with many new development projects in early stages of planning or development.

Planning Approvals

All documentation can be provided and issued to the relevant planning authorities for approval.

Project Management

Where requested we can undertake the project management of any implementation project from tender to final defects inspection.

Tender Evaluation

Where requested we can provided the service of review and evaluation of tender submissions and also review samples for approval.

 

These are the services that we can provide for any successful implementation program.