The Background & The Evolution of an Industry

Never in our history has there been such growth in the field of communications. Our cities and public areas have become ever more complex, and many of our new facilities are overwhelming in size and intricacy. These factors make it obvious that well-designed, aesthetically pleasing signage must be placed to help those unfamiliar with a site or facility to find the way to their destination.

Interior signage has been used for many years; however, it has only been since the early 1970’s that it has been recognized for its importance. Prior to that, there was little concern for the continuity of design, color, letter style, or installation, and interior signs were considered utilitarian in nature. Once buildings began appearing with attractive, professionally designed signage systems, an appreciation developed for the part that signage plays in the success of the facility.

Variety of Sites and Facilities

Each type of facility has its own unique set of requirements for identification and wayfinding, and it is incumbent on the designer to analyze and address those.

For example, a typical small retail store or restaurant in a shopping area primarily requires identification to attract customers passing by. Once in the store, visitors are directed by departmental and merchandising type signage. Larger stores employ directories, and wayfinding signage to get to various departments or floors. Also, executive office identification, and common area public signage (such as restrooms) are directed and identified for the benefit of customers. As the stores become larger, and thus more complex, the demand for signage increases.

In the mall setting, retailers are dependent on their identification sign to attract customers, however, the mall owner is concerned with disseminating information regarding the entire facility and attracting and retaining more tenants. Such amenities as large map directories at each entrance, directional signs for restrooms, food courts, first aid, and emergency exits are keys to the overall success of the enterprise.

Hotels and resorts require intensive signage for wayfinding throughout the facility, of which very little is escorted. Beyond simply finding the correct room number, modern hotels and resorts embrace many of the same retail options found in a mall, and directional signs along with signs that provide for the safety of guests are essential.