Signage Design Research Articles

A study of pedestrian wayfinding behavior based on desktop VR considering both spatial knowledge and visual information

Understanding pedestrian wayfinding behavior is crucial for traffic management and building design. The use of virtual reality technology presents an efficient approach for investigating pedestrian wayfinding behavior in large public spaces, offering numerous advantages for data collection. However, the impact of different scenario dimensions on pedestrian wayfinding behavior in large public spaces remains unclear. Additionally, the selection of virtual experiment scenario dimensions currently relies primarily on researchers’ experience and practical conditions, lacking sufficient evidence to support their rational. Another challenge is the limited focus on spatial knowledge’s effect on wayfinding behavior, with insufficient analysis of the utility of pedestrian visual information and a lack of precise methods to quantify visual field information accurately. This study addresses these gaps by incorporating spatial knowledge at multiple scales and pedestrian visual field information as influencing factors in the analysis of wayfinding behavior. Furthermore, it distinguishes between three-dimensional and two-dimensional scenarios to compare the impact of dimensional differences on pedestrian wayfinding behavior. By analyzing behavior data from non-immersive wayfinding experiments, this research employs statistical analysis methods and a deep learning framework to derive results regarding the factors influencing wayfinding behavior. The findings demonstrate that considering both spatial and visual field information effectively enhances the predictive ability of the wayfinding model. Additionally, dimensional differences significantly influence the pedestrian wayfinding process. These results offer empirical evidence to guide researchers in selecting experimental scenarios of pedestrian behavior and provide insights for public space layout, signage design, and improving pedestrian efficiency.

Eye-Tracking Analysis of Proposed Signage Design to Prevent Accidents Caused by the Abrupt Appearance of Dividers on Indian Roads

The road transport system is expanding considerably in developing countries. Villages are connecting to major cities for business, education, health, and many other reasons because of road development and smooth transportation. There has been a rise in the number of road accidents observed, caused by abruptly appearing dividers on roads and a lack of required signage systems. This paper discusses scenarios of accidents due to such abruptly appearing dividers and offers a strategy to design appropriate signage to avoid road accidents in the future. It has been observed that permanent or movable arbitrary fixtures, such as a barricade or a small partition block wall, are installed to separate lanes, in addition to white-colored stripes that are typically employed for lane separation on roads. These fixtures, although they are intended as lane-dividing solutions on roads, cause serious, and at times, fatal accidents, due their sudden, uninitiated appearance on the road. To address this problem, alternative signage designs were designed and tested on Indian roads, based on human cognitive responses and visual attention analysis on signage using an eye-tracking method. In addition, the semantic quality and legibility of alternate signage designs were evaluated using a questionnaire to judge their overall efficacy. Hence, the best signage design solution is proposed for implementation near or before occurrences of road dividers to avoid accidents.

Implementasi Desain Grafis di Perpustakaan INSTIPER Yogyakarta

The library plays a crucial role in assisting patrons in accessing the knowledge they need. The library needs to ensure that its collections and services are easily accessible and utilizable by patrons. One way to enhance the accessibility of the library, both in terms of services and collections, is by implementing graphic design. This article explores the implementation of graphic design in the INSTIPER Yogyakarta Library using a qualitative descriptive method, with observation and literature review as data collection methods. Based on data processing results, the researcher identified four library activities that utilize graphic design: 1. Signage design and library information production; 2. Development of teaching materials for faculty members; 3. Development of realia collections and arboretum; 4. Publishing. The graphic design products produced by the library are disseminated through various media, ranging from traditional notice boards, computer screens, social media, to the Learning Management System (LMS). The results of these graphic design products are also used for various purposes, including location navigation, branding, educational materials, promotion, and information reformatting.

歴史的まちなみの屋外広告物における「相応しさ感覚」に着目した景観保全

This study focused on outdoor advertisements in Kawagoe City, Saitama Prefecture, that are not explicitly defined as norms, but have implicit rules based on the “sense of appropriateness” of people who are involved in urban development. In this study, the factors of the “sense of appropriateness” and the process of cultivating it were clarified. As a result, nine types and evaluation criteria based on the “sense of appropriateness” for the signage design were identified. In addition, the “sense of appropriateness” has been fostered through community development activities and has been changing with the times.

Should occupational health and safety signs be evidence-based?

There are a range of safety signs and symbols that duty holders and employers provide in workplaces, public places and elsewhere. The design and location of signage are typically standardized and in compliance with health and safety regulations, such as the United Kingdom’s Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996, creating an illusion that they are authoritative and evidence-based. This is aided by the harmonization and normalization of specific signs across the European Union (EU), as dictated by an EU Directive, and to some extent globally, so that signs are the same in different countries, although their specific requirements and regulations and laws differ across countries. There is also an assumption that everyone understands the meanings of safety signs and symbols. Yet, these conventions need to be scrutinized to ensure that health and safety information is being communicated appropriately and effectively. Arguably, safety signs are clear and have legible words and messages and universally recognized visual symbols, making the identification of prohibited actions, safeguards to follow, and warnings of potential hazards much easier and quicker. Yet, there is no evidence for the effectiveness of certain wording, symbols and colours over alternative options. Also, although signs in the workplace are likely to be understood by employees who have undertaken health and safety training (and, ideally, refresher training), research on this topic is lacking, and it is not clear if the public understands the safety signs encountered in daily life. Research is urgently needed on safety signs to ensure they are evidence-based.

A comparison of staff presence and signage on zoo visitor behavior.

Many zoos favor the use of signage to encourage learning and positive visitor experiences as well as discourage negative behaviors by visitors because of its simplicity, relatively low maintenance needed, and low cost. However, current literature suggests that conventional signage has limited impact on visitors in zoos. This study hypothesized that visitors would be less likely to exhibit negative behaviors (e.g., feeding and touching) in the presence of uniformed staff compared to signage. The study was conducted twice a day over 4 weeks with one condition per week (Baseline, Signage, Staff, and Signage + Staff). The total number of visitors and the frequency of negative visitor behaviors were observed. These behaviors reduced from 14.0% (Baseline; no signage and no staff) and 13.1% (Signage), to 4.8% (Staff) and 6.1% (Signage + Staff). Both the Staff and Signage + Staff conditions were significantly lower than the Baseline and Signage conditions. However, signage alone did not significantly differ from the baseline condition, when no intervention was implemented, and staff and signage together did not significantly differ from staff alone. This was also observed in both negative visual behaviors and negative tactile behaviors from visitors. The results suggest that methods other than signage may be more effective at reducing undesired visitor behaviors. This study could guide the design of future signage or even potentially encourage zoos to reduce reliance on signs and employ other strategies.

Subway passengers’ wayfinding behaviors when exposed to signage: An experimental study in virtual reality with eye-tracker

This study aimed to examine differences in the development of spatial knowledge under normal and pressure conditions, as well as differences in the use of signage. To this end, a virtual reality environment of a subway station was developed. We conducted a wayfinding experiment in the environment using a headset device with an eye-tracker. The wayfinding performance and eye-tracking data from 48 participants were recorded and analyzed. The results indicated that spatial knowledge was less grasped under pressure than in normal conditions. Despite the particular diversity across wayfinding conditions, we found a higher reliance on signage among first-time participants. Still, this effect was not significant at landmarks. And the importance of signs near the starting point for route selection was also reported. This study is helpful for understanding the differences in wayfinding and signage use across conditions and provides recommendations for signage design and emergency capacity promotion.

The effects of digital signage design features and interactivity on shoppers behaviour: the mediated effect of positive shopping mall ambiance

The effects of digital signage design features and interactivity on shoppers behaviour: the mediated effect of positive shopping mall ambiance

ВЛИЯНИЕ МАРКЕТИНГОВЫХ МЕТОДОВ СТИМУЛИРОВАНИЯ ПРОДАЖ НА ВЕЛИЧИНУ СРЕДНЕГО ЧЕКА: АНАЛИЗ И РЕЗУЛЬТАТЫ

The article presents the results of the analysis of various methods of increasing the size of the average receipt used by pharmacy organizations. Marketing methods of sales promotion are important elements of the economic activity of pharmaceutical companies, which contribute to increasing profits, expanding the coverage of the market of medicines, increasing customer loyalty. The analysis of the average check of the pharmacy organization allows you to evaluate the effectiveness of the activities of the employees of the first table, the specialists of the sales department and the managers of the pharmacy organizations. The paper presents the results of the analysis of the average receipt of pharmacy organizations federal and regional pharmacy chains of private ownership, as well as pharmacy organizations state pharmacy network. Economic indicators were used for three joint-stock companies from each pharmacy chain for the period from February to April 2021 and 2022. Using the calculation method, the values of the average check were determined, which amounted to 289 rubles, 219 rubles, 198 rubles (2021) and 382 rubles, 274 rubles, 236 rubles (2022), respectively. It turned out that the highest indicators of the average receipt were the result of the competent application of sales promotion methods in pharmacy organizations. Among the presented pharmacy chains, the most popular marketing methods are: consumer promotion, merchandising techniques (design of outdoor signage, use of rubricators, POS-materials), provision of additional services, pharmaceutical consulting, etc. The importance of such methods as online commerce, the development of personalization in informing, the availability of a convenient application and a website with the possibility of quick ordering is confirmed by the high average receipt of pharmacies in the federal network. A comparative analysis of receipts for the same period of time shows the influence of factors of demand fluctuations associated with the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, which led to a rush demand for medicines and medical products (disposable masks, gloves), which contributed to a significant increase in the average receipt in pharmaceutical organizations.

Typographic design of outdoor signage, restaurant authenticity, and consumers’ willingness to dine: extending semiotic theory

PurposeRestaurants’ outdoor signage plays an irreplaceable role in attracting potential diners, as it conveys important functional and symbolic meanings of the businesses. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of typographic design elements of outdoor signage on consumers’ perceptions of authenticity. This study also tests the linkage between authenticity and willingness to dine, as well as the moderating effect of frequency of dining in ethnic restaurants on the relationship.Design/methodology/approachUsing a 2 (simplified vs traditional Chinese characters) × 2 (calligraphy vs computer font) × 2 (vertical vs horizontal text flow) between-subject design, the authors did two experiments with 786 Chinese diners. Restaurant authenticity and willingness to dine are dependent variables, and openness to ethnic cuisine is the control variable.FindingsDisplay characters and text flow significantly affect restaurant authenticity. Furthermore, the results of this study demonstrate that display characters interact with typeface to influence restaurant authenticity. Consumers’ perceived authenticity significantly increases their willingness to dine. The frequency of dining in ethnic restaurants moderates the relationship between restaurant authenticity and willingness to dine.Practical implicationsEthnic restaurateurs should pay attention to the outdoor signage design, as it affects potential consumers’ authenticity perceptions. Specifically, in Mainland China, traditional Chinese characters and vertical text direction increase potential consumers’ authenticity perceptions.Originality/valueThis study extends the semiotic theory and applies the cue–judgment–behavior model in the hospitality literature. This study also provides new understanding of authenticity by identifying the influence of typographic design on authenticity, which confirms the semiotic theory that certain semiotic cues affect consumers’ judgments.

Using Eye-Tracking for Traffic Control Signage Design at Highway Work Zone


 This paper discusses the application of Eye Tracking (ET) technologies for researchers to understand a driver’s perception of signage at the highway work zone. Combining ET within a screen-based motion pictures and a driving simulator, the team developed an analytical method that allowed designers to evaluate signage design. Two experiments were set up to investigate how signage design might affect a driver’s visual attention and interaction under various environmental complexities and glare conditions. The study explores the visual perception related to several spatial features, including signage modality, scene complexity, and color schemes. The ET method utilizes total fixation time and time to first fixation data to evaluate the effectiveness of signage presented through screen-based video and a driving simulator.

Introduction to Emerging Research for Informing the Design and Use of Wayfinding Systems

This issue of the Interdisciplinary Journal of Signage and Wayfinding provides findings from emerging research informing the design and use of technology and traditional signage for enhanced wayfinding in a diverse array of complex visual environments. Some of the results reported here will likely have important implications for the design and use of wayfinding systems in interior, as well as outdoors environments.

A BIM-based model to study wayfinding signage using virtual reality

Wayfinding signage is essential in a large building to find one’s way. Unfortunately, there are no methodologies and standards for designing signage. A good sign system therefore depends on the experience of the signage company. Getting lost in public infrastructures might be disorienting or cause anxiety. Designing an efficient signage system is challenging as the building needs to communicate a lot of information in a minimum of space. In this paper, we propose a model to study wayfinding signage based on BIM models and the BIM open library, which allows the integration of signage design into a BIM model to perform analyses and comparisons. The study of signage is based on the user’s perception, and virtual reality is a tool that best approximates this today. Our model helps to perform signage analysis in building design and to compare objectively the wayfinding signage in a BIM model using virtual reality.

Covid-19 Responsive Public Space Signage Design for Children from Physical Distancing Aspects at Lapangan Merdeka, Pematangsiantar

Abstract. Adaptation of public space users requires COVID 19 responsive design elements to support public health, especially for children aged 7-12 years who are classified as vulnerable and still need public space to play and socialize. The Lapangan Merdeka area is a public open space where children make up about 60% of visitors. Currently, there is still negligence in the application of health protocols. This study considers design requirements in implementing physical distancing, such as signage aspects. The quantitative method is used in this research. The analysis stages consisted of identifying the child's characteristics through behavior-setting and place-setting; and formulating design element needs through signage aspects such as directional signage, informative signage, and identification signage. The research result shows three-element of signage. First is directional signage, such as a circulation regulation on the surfaces of the jogging track. It is used for the signing facility on the jogging track. It uses a board stuck in the ground and is placed in the area leading to the field, and uses an information board with 1-1.5 meters on the jogging track. Second, informative signage such as an x-banner at all facility points. Third, identification signage such as a board containing an area plan and placed near the words "Lapangan Merdeka."

Digital and Territorial Trails System for Developing Sustainable Tourism and Enhancing Cultural Heritage in Rural Areas: The Case of San Giovanni Lipioni, Italy

Depopulation has become a significant issue for local culture and built heritage conservation of many European rural areas. In San Giovanni Lipioni, a province of Chieti (Italy), this phenomenon has increased to the point that, nowadays, there are only 150 inhabitants and no significant economic activities. In this regard, the present paper aims to describe the crucial role of nature-oriented tourism in an economic, social, and revitalization strategy; how digital tools can be used to map and create a territorial trail system between municipalities; and, finally, outline the operations necessary for reactivation. The proposed methodology consists of a first digital survey phase using GPS receivers and outdoor navigation apps. The second phase would create a web platform with a system of virtual itineraries between villages, named “The Golden Leaves Paths”. After that, the last phase concerns the creation of analysis factsheets to guide the maintenance of paths and the design of iconic signage with artistic illustrations based on the oak leaves leitmotif to be installed along the paths. A local social promotion association will employ the outcomes, technical drawings, and strategies to reactivate paths as an attractive element for nature-oriented tourism and create a digital platform to foster the village’s territorial and cultural heritage.

Research and Design Considerations for Presentation of Non-Safety Related Information via In-Vehicle Displays during Automated Driving

As automated vehicles become more prevalent on roadways, it is necessary to study driver behaviors in interacting with such systems. With higher levels of vehicle automation, drivers may become less engaged with the roadway environment. As a result, how to effectively bring non-safety related information (e.g., guide and service sign content) to a driver’s attention is an open research question. In this review, we summarize current literature on three domains of research, including: (1) the design and effectiveness of traditional road signage, (2) human factors considerations in vehicle automation design, and (3) current design guidelines for in-vehicle information presentation. Based on the review, including empirical studies, we identify knowledge relevant to communicating road signage information in automated vehicles. We propose a framework highlighting various factors that could determine the effectiveness of in-vehicle messaging. The framework is intended to motivate future research on development of in-vehicle interfaces for highly automated driving.

Implications of Signage on Wayfinding Behaviour of Users: Towards Inclusive Design of Hospital Environment in Nigeria

Inadequate signage systems and architectural design create physical barriers that cause uneven access to users of hospital buildings during wayfinding, which causes stress, uncertainty, and an unpleasant experience for both staff and patients. The study examines the effects of signs on wayfinding behaviour to achieve inclusive wayfinding in the design of hospitals in Nigeria. The study was conducted at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), Ilorin Kwara State, Nigeria. A mixed-methods approach was employed for data collection through a survey administered to 140 participants (70 male and 70 female). Thirty respondents were interviewed, and the hospital buildings were observed. According to the findings, direction signage has the most impact on wayfinding since users rely on it the most to make wayfinding decisions, followed by identification signage (text/support icons) that aids in the recognition of target locations. Also, the result illustrates that signage was supported with pictographs while text was interpreted in the main local language (Yoruba), which enhanced understanding of signs across cultures in the state. As a result, the conceptual design and placement of signage and other inclusive navigation components in the hospital should be purposefully and suitably employed, simplified, useful, and appealing for inclusive access, meaning, and interpretation. The main limitation of this study is the non-utilisation of digital signs and various assistive technologies for impaired (sensory and mobility) people of varied ages and abilities.

Towards an approach to interactive Signage Design for People with Disabilities in Egypt

Towards an approach to interactive Signage Design for People with Disabilities in Egypt

A Brief Talk on Environmental Experience Graphic Design in the Construction of Characteristic Tourism From Signage Design

A Brief Talk on Environmental Experience Graphic Design in the Construction of Characteristic Tourism From Signage Design

How Guidance Signage Design Influences Passengers’ Wayfinding Performance in Metro Stations: Case Study of a Virtual Reality Experiment

Well-designed guidance signage plays a significant role in the metro environment, ensuring that passengers can reach their destination quickly without anxiety and stress. At present, most metro stations in China use vertical guidance signage (hanging on the walls), which can easily cause misunderstandings in conveying information. Horizontal guidance signage (horizontally attached to the ground) with visual continuity has not yet been used. To explore the influence of different signage designs (vertical, horizontal, and mixed) on passengers’ wayfinding performance, this research utilized virtual reality (VR) technology to develop a VR environment based on a metro station in Nanjing, China. Thirty-six volunteers were randomly divided into six groups based on two variables (guidance signage design and density of passengers), and participated in the wayfinding experiment. During the experiment, three types of wayfinding performance measurements were collected and analyzed (subjective: the difference in the pressure of the wayfinding environment on the participants; objective: participants’ average speed, number of pauses, and the selection of infrastructure; systematic: ratings of affordance indicators). The results revealed that the mixed (vertical + horizontal) signage performed best, and different guidance signage designs affect passengers’ perception of environmental pressure, decision-making on the use of public infrastructures (stairs), and the number of pauses.