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F I V E T I P S F O RW A Y F I N D I N G
H E A L T H C A R E
June 2016
Wayfinding for Healthcare
We generally find our way around complex environments by means ofa process known as cognitive mapping, creating a mental image of aplace which improves as we get to know it.
Within the healthcare environment visitors can have differingrelationships with the site, cultural backgrounds, and emotional stateswhich will all affect their ability to learn where to go. The state of mindof a member of staff will differ from that of a patient attending aroutine appointment, a visiting supplier or a visit with a sick relative.
Modulex have been delivering environmental graphics andwayfinding services to some of the largest healthcare projects inEurope.
Contact us for more information: [email protected]
EXAMINATIONDIAGNOSISCURE
TAKE THE FIRST STEP
IN IMPROVINGVISITOR EXPERIENCEWITH OUR FIVE TIPS
Tip No. 1Can you read it?
There are thousands of typefaces available, some more legible than others, and a few highly legibleones like Helvetica which have been developed specifically for signs.
Even within one typeface family, or font, options exist which affect legibility. Words made entirelyfrom upper case letters are generally less legible than those formed from a mix of upper and lowercase. Bold letters are less legible, as are ultra-light and italic versions.
Tip No. 2Can you look it up?
Simplicity is a virtue in sign design. But large healthcare facilities may have to provide a long list ofnames in a main index. These can be a challenge to use and every effort should be made to presentthe information in an accessible manner. An index should not be further complicated by theaddition of codes and instructions. In this example only the first column is needed. The otherinformation should be provided later in the journey, when required.
Tip No. 3Are you using jargon?
The use of terminology is particularly relevant in healthcare. Medical names derived from Latin andGreek many not be familiar to the public.
Remember that the signs form part of a larger information system which includes informationpacks, appointment cards, correspondence, websites and even verbal communications. The nameshould be the same in all instances.
Tip No. 4Have you tested colour?
Signs with colours close to that of the wall or background are more difficult to see. Either changethe colour of the wall, or of the sign or increase the size of the sign. Some colours attract moreattention than others. Yellow is the brightest of colours and stands out much more than black. Inorder to be as visible as a yellow sign, the black one will have to be substantially bigger.
Tip No. 5Have you considered corner signage?
If a sign is going to be read at an angle, for example a door sign in a narrow corridor, someadjustment may be required in order to restore legibility. This can be achieved by selecting anextended version of the font.
LIKE TO TALK TO USABOUT YOURWAYFINDINGREQUIREMENTS?
Contact us.
About Modulex
Modulex was originally founded in 1963 by the Lego Group. We retain and take pride in ourDanish origins and long standing commitment to design, quality and the environment.
It has grown since then into a global supplier of wayfinding, brand identity implementation,
communication graphics and retail solutions working with healthcare facilities across Europe.
For further information contact Modulexe: [email protected]
