Business offices are multifaceted in that they offer a variety of amenities, including offices or cubicles, break rooms, conference rooms, and employee fitness centers. Effective wayfinding signage for offices is essential to help employees navigate and reach their desired destinations with ease. Otherwise, they are at a risk of wasting their time and energy aimlessly circling the area without clear directions, trying to locate what they need. Wayfinding signage is a specific type of signage that helps people navigate through a space or environment. This type of signage typically features maps, directional arrows, and other information to help users find their way to specific locations within a building, campus, or public space.

Wayfinding signage is commonly used in buildings to help employees navigate efficiently and effectively, reducing confusion and improving the overall user experience. YAROOMS describes wayfinding as “a comprehensive approach designed for seamless navigation within complex built environments like offices.” Continue reading to discover 5 ways for maximizing your wayfinding signage:

  • Be Clear and Concise: Make sure your signage is straightforward and easy to read. Use simple language and minimal wording to convey the necessary information. Avoid jargon or complicated language. For example, instead of saying “Please do not obstruct this exit, as it is reserved for emergency personnel only,” you could simply say “Emergency Exit Only.” Or instead of listing areas individually on a directory sign (example: “The Lobby, Elevators, and Employee Breakroom are all on the left”), you could simply list all three areas with an arrow pointing to the left. These directional signs get straight to the point and are easily understood by all. 
A man walks by a conference room. On the hallway wall is a floor directory sign with directional arrows showing the location of key common areas
  • Have a Cohesive Design: Keep the design of your signage consistent throughout the building. Use the same style, font, and color scheme to create continuity that is easy to follow. This will help to establish a unified brand image and make it easier for employees or visitors to navigate the building. It also adds a level of professionalism and attention to detail that will be sure to impress. Consistency in design helps build trust and credibility, as visitors will see that management pays attention to even the smallest details. signmojo.com features more than 60 sign collections, each of which includes matching room number signs, common area signs, directional signs, restroom signs, information signs, fire safety signs, and stair and exit signs which coordinate seamlessly. 
  • Ensure Strategic Placement: Place your signage in high traffic areas where employees and their visitors are likely to see them. Make sure they are visible from a distance and positioned at eye level for easy reading. All of our signs are guaranteed to meet current ADA regulations, and we provide guidance on proper sign installation to ensure compliance. Lastly, make sure your signage is well-lit, particularly in dim areas such as corridors and stairwells.
  • Provide Directions: Use directional signage to guide employees to key areas such as the conference room, restrooms, lobby, and elevators. Directional signs are typically located at key intersections and decision points throughout the building. To help guests navigate around the office, include arrows to indicate a direction and use numbers to indicate floors levels.
A woman holding her son consults the facility's DIRECTORY sign
  • Update Signage Regularly: Frequently review and update your wayfinding signage to reflect any changes in the building layout or facilities. Remove outdated signage and replace it with new information, as needed. Updating signage will also ensure that employees and visitors are receiving the most accurate and up-to-date information.

To make the most of your wayfinding signage, be sure to observe how people interact with it and gather feedback to identify any areas that may need improvement. Make adjustments as needed to ensure a seamless and intuitive navigation experience. By actively seeking and incorporating input, you can continuously refine and enhance the wayfinding system to meet the needs and expectations of your employees and visitors. If you find that you are in need of new wayfinding signage – such as directory signs, overhead signs, exit signs, or more – visit signmojo.com to shop! For assistance, call us at 800-348-1349 to speak with our dedicated customer service team.