Wayfinding Terms

 

 

Architectural Context

Existing physical features in the wayfinding environment such as buildings, building elements (such as doors, entrances, or walls) which give clues to the location of destinations, either correctly or incorrectly.

 

Cognitive Map

Informal expression to describe a user's memory of having been in a place; derived from the the discipline of cognitive psychology and it's study of the mental processes involved in orientation and memory.

 

Circulation Path

The physical path(s) used to reach a destination; may be either vehicular or pedestrian and may contain features such as curves, bends, T's, branches, or crossing paths; has directionality (primary & secondary).

 

Decision Point

A point along a path which offers more than one option for proceeding to a destination; a node is sometime a decision point.

 

Destination

A physical location in the built environment which is the goal of the wayfinding process; can be a building, area, room, or other designated point.

 

Direction-giving

The verbal and printed advice offered to the user to help them navigate the built environment; consists of visual and auditory types and manifests in signage, brochures, and spoken directions.

 

District

A distinct area or sub-area which contains recognizable physical characteristics which may be useful in remembering the area or which characterizes its functional purpose or visual appearance; district names must agree with the nomenclature used in the wayfinding program.

 

Edge

A recognizable line or boundary of a district which helps to define it or separate it from an adjacent district; may be formed by a change of architectural surface, a landmark, or simply a change from one district to another.

 

Gateway

A significant node in an environment which is a beginning; may be a portal in the physical sense or simply a point which is passed which signals a change in the character of the environment.

 

Landmark

A significant physical feature of the environment which is memorable and which can be useful in remembering previous wayfinding attempts or can be used by people helping to direct a new traveller.

 

For more information, contact Kelly Brandon at kbd@olympus.net