Finding Your Way with the Signage Experts: Outdoor Wayfinding Projects

Wayfinding signage projects are fun because they are unique – the wayfinding signs we create are not necessarily outdoor advertising, and not necessarily outdoors at all. Interior wayfinding projects really deserve their own space, though. We’ll write about those another time; for now, we’ll focus on outdoor wayfinding projects.

Like other types of signage, wayfinding signs can be illuminated or not, feature dimensional letters, and a wide vdesariety of colors, styles, and materials.

What’s most unusual about wayfinding signage is its purpose: its goal of wayfinding is to provide information – directions, really – more so than than advertising. Of course, every wayfinding sign represents a chance – and a couple of square feet of space, at least – that can be used to enhance an organization’s brand and image. We approach wayfinding projects with that in mind.

Experienced Sign Designers Give the Best Directions

Metro Sign & Awning’s familiarity with a wide variety of materials means we can suggest design elements that will not only ensure your signs look good, but that they give you the best value. Design, materials and craftsmanship are critical to any sign project – but not every signage fabricator has experience in wayfinding projects.

Consider the wayfinding signage you see when you visit an airport, college campus, hospital, or municipality. Each sign must serve different users – namely pedestrians and automobile drivers – and withstand not only four seasons of weather, but also all of the special stresses associated with being accessible to humans, dogs and other animals and elements.Your wayfinding signage must be on the job 24/7, providing not only explicit directions but also presenting a good impression no matter how many inches of snow or hail land on it, no matter how many graffiti artists stop by…

Well, you get the idea.

Wayfinding Projects in Metro Boston and Greater New England

Projects we’ve worked on this week include the Warren Conference Center & Inn and Northeastern University. If you have a chance, we suggest you see those signs in person. If you can’t stop by soon, don’t worry, we’ll share details of those projects here in future posts.

In the meantime, if you are planning a wayfinding project and would like to discuss your needs with someone on our design team, please contact us. We’d be happy to point you in the right direction.

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Architectural Elements of Wayfinding, Design Considerations

Well-designed and properly constructed wayfinding signage will enhance your customers’ and visitors’ experience, reinforce your brand, and look great – regardless of environmental conditions – for many years.  While its primary purpose isn’t advertising, it can and should promote your image. To get the best return on your investment, work with signage experts experienced in wayfinding projects. The AIA’s white paper on Wayfinding Signage and related design considerations can be found on the AIA website.