Urban cognitive signage
Introduction
wayfinding refers to information systems that guide people through physical environments and improve their understanding and experience of space.[1][2] It focuses on the person and, specifically, on a non-standardized person, but on the existing diversity of people and their physical, cultural, social, etc. capacities and variables, in relation to the environment in which they operate.
The term, of Anglo-Saxon origin, was first used with this intention in the book "The image of the city" by Kevin Lynch in 1960. It could be translated as "finding the way", "orientation" or "navigation". Sometimes it is related to "signaling." Although it is used as a synonym for "orientation", it is chosen to be considered a crucible term, since it collects knowledge and practices from different disciplines.[3].
Advantages
Theorists Arthur and Passini or McCoy and Evans listed the following advantages of the application of wayfinding resources in society:
• - Avoid disorientation and stress.
• - Avoid people rejecting the space.
• - Facilitate accessibility.
• - Avoid inefficiencies due to loss of time.
• - Generate economic advantages.
• - Avoid extreme consequences, for example, an ambulance not arriving in time to an accident[4].
Characteristics
Orientation from one place to another is a fundamental human activity and an integral part of daily life. People often use their knowledge and previous experiences to find their way. Wayfinding systems have the function of informing people surrounded by unfamiliar environments. In this sense, it is important to display information at strategic points to guide people in the right direction. Humans interpret and store in their memory the structures of buildings and cities, but also of nature. However, distances, locations and time can be remembered differently from reality and differently, in turn, from one person to another.
An effective wayfinding system is characterized by:.
• - Do not make people think, using a comprehensive, clear and consistent communication system.
• - Show only what is necessary and relevant in the space and during the journey.