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Wayfinding design guidelines

I N D U S T R YDepartment of Main RoadsG O V E R N M E N TR E S E A R C H

Wayfinding design guidelinescompiled byRon Apelt, John Crawford and Dennis Hogan

© Icon.Net Pty Ltd 2007Cooperative Research Centre for Construction InnovationL Block, Level 9, QUT Gardens Point 2 George Street, Brisbane, Qld, Australia 4000Telephone: +61 7 3138 9291Email: enquiries@construction-innovation.infoWeb: www.construction-innovation.infoAll intellectual property in the ideas, concepts and design for this publication belongs to Icon.Net Pty Ltd.The authors, the Cooperative Research Centre for Construction Innovation, Icon.Net Pty Ltd, and theirrespective boards, stakeholders, officers, employees and agents make no representation or warrantyconcerning the accuracy or completeness of the information in this work. To the extent permissible bylaw, the aforementioned persons exclude all implied conditions or warranties and disclaim all liabilityfor any loss or damage or other consequences howsoever arising from the use of the information inthis book.DisclaimerThis non-mandatory guideline document Wayfinding design guidelines is designed to assist in makingsuch information easily available. However, neither the CRC for Construction Innovation, nor the groupswhich have endorsed or been involved in the development of the guidelines, accept any responsibilityfor the use of the information contained in the guidelines and make no guarantee or representationwhatsoever that the information is an exhaustive treatment of the subject matters contained thereinor is complete, accurate, up-to-date or relevant as a guide to action for any particular purpose. Usersare required to exercise their own skill and care with respect to its use. In any important matter, usersshould carefully evaluate the scope of the treatment of the particular subject matter, its completeness,accuracy, currency, and relevance for their purposes, and should obtain appropriate professionaladvice relevant to their particular circumstances.In particular, and to avoid doubt, the use of the guidelines does not:• guarantee acceptance or accreditation of a design, material or building solution by any entityauthorised to do so under any laws• mean that a design, material or building solution complies with the Building Code of Australia• absolve the user from complying with any Local, State, and Territory or Australian Governmentlegal requirements.First published 2007 by Cooperative Research Centre for Construction Innovation, for Icon.Net Pty Ltd.Cover images © Queensland Department of Public WorksFor further information on our publications, including Wayfinding system audit, please visit our website:www.construction-innovation.infoRRP $27.50ISBN 978-0-9804262-9-8This publication is printed on 9lives 80 by Spicers Paper. This paper is derived from well-managedforests and contains 80% recycled fibre from post-consumer waste and 20% totally chlorine-free pulp.It is ISO 14001 accredited and FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified.This publication has been printed using soy-based inks.Wayfi nding design guidelines

ForewordIt is generally taken for granted that people are aware of their surroundings and cannavigate from one place to another. However, for an individual with a disability findingyour way in often complex surroundings can be difficult.The Cooperative Research Centre for Construction Innovation leads a collaboration ofcommitted research professionals to develop a number of wayfinding solutions— creating a more accessible, more inclusive built environment.The team comprises representatives from the Department of Public Works; the BuildingCommission, Victoria; the Australian Building Codes Board; the Queensland Universityof Technology and the CSIRO, as well as other interested individuals.The team’s work was recognised with a 2007 Disability Action Week Award, and their latest research hasresulted in this significant and practical booklet. The inclusive design principles, techniques, strategies andsolutions will help resolve problems associated with wayfinding, not only for people with a disability but alsofor the whole community.I commend this book to you.Honourable Rob Schwarten MPMinister for Public Works, Housing and Information and Communication TechnologyThe Disability Services Act 2006 aims to ensure that the conditions of everyday lifefor people with a disability are the same as, or as close as possible, to the conditionsenjoyed by the general community.This Wayfinding design guidelines booklet is an important resource that providespractical and cost-effective solutions to help designers, developers, property ownersand managers do their part in improving access to buildings, properties and spacesfor all people.It complements a range of strategies introduced by the Queensland Government whichaim to enhance people’s ability to participate fully in their communities.It is my pleasure to support this very practical booklet which offers people with a disability real solutionsfor wayfinding through their community, and I commend it to you.Honourable Lindy Nelson-Carr MPMinister for Communities, Disability Services, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Multicultural Affairs, Seniors andYouthiii

ContentsPreface .................................................................................................................................................... vAcknowledgements ............................................................................................................................... viAbout the Cooperative Research Centre for Construction Innovation ..................................................viiiDefinition of terms .................................................................................................................................. ix1 Wayfinding ..........................................................................................................................................1Inclusive design and environmental access ...................................................................................1Principles of Universal Design ........................................................................................................22 Wayfinding design principles ...........................................................................................................4Wayfinding maps .............................................................................................................................43 Wayfinding devices, systems and technologies .............................................................................64 Design solutions and strategies .......................................................................................................8Communicating spatial information .................................................................................................8Issue: informative material ...............................................................................................................8Issue: arrival point or address of the facility or building .................................................................8Issue: unidentified main entry or arrival point .................................................................................8Issue: internal arrival point ..............................................................................................................9Issue: graphic communication ........................................................................................................9Issue: restrooms and toilet facilities ..............................................................................................11Issue: lifts .......................................................................................................................................11Issue: signage ...............................................................................................................................11Issue: viewing distance to signage ...............................................................................................115 Signage hierarchical structure .......................................................................................................12Sign legibility .................................................................................................................................12System design criteria ...................................................................................................................13Types of signs ...............................................................................................................................13Identification signs .........................................................................................................................13Information signs ...........................................................................................................................13Directional signs ............................................................................................................................13Safety, regulatory, prohibition and advisory signs ........................................................................13Recommended reading .................................................................................................................186 References ........................................................................................................................................197 Further reading .................................................................................................................................21Appendix A ..........................................................................................................................................22Principles of Universal Design ......................................................................................................22Appendix B ..........................................................................................................................................24Suggested letter height .................................................................................................................24Appendix C ..........................................................................................................................................25Wayfinding systems matrix ............................................................................................................25Wayfi nding design guidelines

PrefaceThe outcomes of the Wayfinding in the Built Environment project result from the unique industry partnershipof the public and private sector working together with a national research team. This collaboration under theleadership of the Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) for Construction Innovation is providing significantvalue, not only to industry, but also to the community generally.This publication, Wayfinding design guidelines, outlines a practical and comprehensive design methodto wayfinding using an inclusive design approach. The guidelines assist designers as well as developers,property owners and property managers in identifying ways of improving access to, into and through theirnew or existing property, particularly buildings and large complex facilities. The material sources includeexpert knowledge from architects, landscape architects, lawyers, engineers, building surveyors, buildingregulators, access consultants, local expertise and persons with a disability.These guidelines complement the other project publication — Wayfinding system audit.Construction Innovation looks forward to continuing to provide practical outcomes of benefit to thecommunity and enhancing the future of the Australian construction industry.John McCarthyChairCRC for Construction InnovationDr Keith HampsonChief Executive OfficerCRC for Construction Innovationv

AcknowledgementsWayfinding design guidelines compiled by Ron Apelt, John Crawford and Dennis Hogan is basedon the outcomes of the Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) for Construction Innovation projectdocumented in the research report Wayfinding in the Built Environment.Wayfinding in the Built Environment project team membersProject leaderDennis HoganBuilding Commission VictoriaProject researchersRon ApeltJohn CrawfordQueensland Department of Public WorksCSIRO consultantProject contributors and reviewersBrian AsheMathew McDonaldRomy BarronStuart GriersonDebbie SmitPaul SmithBrian ParkerAustralian Building Codes BoardAustralian Building Codes BoardQueensland Department of Public WorksQueensland Department of Public WorksQueensland University of TechnologyQueensland University of TechnologySpecial Consultant Disability IssuesProject affiliatesMichael SmallJo HigginsonHuman Rights and Equal Opportunity CommissionOffice of Commonwealth Games CoordinationContributing access consultantsBryce Tolliday ACAAMurray MountainIvan PetersonAccess Consultant, Wayfinding Australia Pty Ltd (previously InnovativeAccess Systems)Access Design Solutions, VictoriaMetroAccess Community Development Officer City of WhittleseaWithout the financial and collaborative efforts bringing together such teams, this valuable reportcould not have been successfully delivered to our industry.The Wayfinding project participants would like to thank and acknowledge Colleen Foelz(Communication and publications, CRC for Construction Innovation) for the managementof this publication.viWayfi nding design guidelines

Project partnersGovernmentResearchPublication sponsorvii

About the Cooperative Research Centre forConstruction InnovationThe CRC for Construction Innovation is a national research, development and implementationcentre focused on the needs of the property, design, construction and facility managementsectors. Established in 2001 and headquartered at Queensland University of Technology underthe Australian Government’s Cooperative Research Program, Construction Innovation is developingkey technologies, tools and management systems to improve the effectiveness of the constructionindustry. Construction Innovation is supported by investment from its industry, government andresearch partners, leveraged by a Commonwealth grant. More that 350 individuals and an allianceof 27 leading partner organisations are involved in and support the activities of this CRC.There are three research areas:Program A — Business and Industry DevelopmentProgram B — Sustainable Built AssetsProgram C — Delivery and Management of Built Assets.Underpinning these research programs is an Information Communication Technology (ICT) PlatformConstruction Innovation’s future research activities will build upon our strengths in sustainability,digital modelling, safety and improved project delivery. With increased industry engagement andsupport from its partners, this CRC is recognised for our unique role in providing leadership ofindustry-wide research and development. We are committed to continuing to provide valuableoutcomes for Australian industry through applied research, education and technology transferfor the future.viiiWayfi nding design guidelines

Definition of termsAccessibleAccesswayAtlas StriderBluetoothBrailleBuildings or spaces with features to permit use by people with disabilities. BuildingCode of Australia (2007).A continuous accessible path of travel to, or within, a building suitable for peoplewith disabilities.An Atlas Strider combines a talking map system with a GPS positioning device.Atlas Strider systems use a spatial language interface — the environment aroundthe pedestrian is explained verbally (e.g. ‘On your left there is a bus stop’).A short-range wireless specification for connecting mobile products such as mobilecomputers, mobile phones, digital cameras, and other portable devices.CRC for Construction Innovation (2006).A system of touch reading for people who are blind or vision impaired that employsraised dots, evenly arranged in quadrangular letter spaces or cells. Braille symbolsare formed within units of space known as braille cells. A full braille cell consists of sixraised dots arranged in two parallel rows each having three dots. The dot positions areidentified by numbers from one through six. Sixty-four combinations are possible usingone or more of these six dots. A single cell can be used to represent an alphabet letter,number, punctuation mark, or a whole word.When every letter of every word is expressed in braille, it is referred to as Grade 1braille (uncontracted).Grade 2 braille uses a similar system of cells, either individually or in combination withothers, to form a variety of abbreviations and contractions or whole words. Grade 2braille is the more commonly used form in publications and signage.Australia inherited the British system of braille as compared with the American systemand is referred to as Unified English Braille Code (UEBC) Grade 1 braille.This system of braille is constantly being reviewed and upgraded. Refer to theAustralian Braille Authority (ABA) website: http://www.e-bility.com/roundtable/aba/ andhttp://www.ebility.com/roundtable/aba/braillecodes_aust04.phpBraille Signage Braille Signage is a specialist wayfinding device that incorporates UEBC Grade 1braille as a primary source of information for people who are vision impaired and maybe aided with raised tactile lettering, maps or pictorial images.Some areas that may require special signs include:••••••••••accessible parking spaces and passenger loading zonesaccessible entrancesaccessible toilets and parent roomsdirections and information signs regarding functional areasdirections to the nearest accessible facility, posted at non-accessible facilitiesdesignated areas for emergency assistancevolume control telephonestactile signs identifying all permanently designated rooms and spaceselevator and lift signageapproaching stairways, escalators, travelators, ramps or overhead obstructions lessthan two metres above the ground where no suitable barrier exists.Refer current Building Code of Australia and Blind Citizens Australia (BCA)http://www.bca.org.au/Accessible_Environments_Signage_Specification.htmix

Continuousaccessible pathof travel (referalso ‘universalaccessway’)Contrastingtextures:Colour contrast:DisabilityForward-upequivalenceprincipleAn uninterrupted path of travel to, from or within a building, providing accessto all required facilities. A continuous accessible path of travel should notincorporate any step, stairway, turnstile, revolving door, escalator or otherimpediment that would prevent it from being safely negotiated by people withdisabilities. AS1428.1, part 1: General requirements for access — New buildingwork, Building Code of Australia (2007).Contrasting textures act as tactile markers, which people can identify by touch.Examples include carpet matting on a vinyl floor surface, domed buttons onhandrails to indicate the end of the stairway or ramp is approaching, and tactileground surface indicators (TGSIs) at the top and bottom of stairs. BuildingCode of Australia (2007) Section D3.8 Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSI)and Royal Blind Society (2003).Viewing of any object involves the concept of ‘figure–ground relationship’— the more an object contrasts with its surrounds, the more visible it is.The concept of ‘figure-ground relationship’ also includes the relationshipbetween ‘positive’ and ‘negative’ space and the effective use of colourcombinations. The basic guidelines for making effective colour choicesuse Itten’s devised seven colour contrasts: saturation, light, dark,extension (or contrast of proportion), complements, hue, warm and cool.These devised seven colour contrasts (or methodologies) for coordinatingcolours use the hues’ contrasting properties (not physical and chemicalproperties) of colours. Primary colours, yellow, red and blue, produce thestrongest contrast.These colour contrasts add other variations to the intensity of the hues:contrasts may be obtained due to light, moderate or dark value. The colourcontrast becomes weaker with secondary or tertiary colours or as thesaturation decreases.A condition or state of being, which is covered by the broad DisabilityDiscrimination Act 1992 (Cwlth) definition. The term includes physical, sensory,psychiatric, intellectual and neurological disabilities, physical disfigurementand the presence in the body causing, or capable of causing, disease.CRC for Construction Innovation (2006).The upward direction on a map which must always show what is in front ofthe viewer. Levine (2003).GeographicInformationSystem (GIS):Global PositioningSystem (GPS)A computer system for capturing, storing, checking, integrating, manipulating,analysing and displaying spatial data related to positions on the earth’s surface.Typically, a GIS is used for handling maps of one kind or another, which mightbe represented as several different layers where each layer holds data about aparticular kind of feature, for example, roads. CRC for Construction Innovation(2006).Satellite system to provide information about any location such as the latitude,longitude, altitude or elevation of any location. Crawford et al. (2005).Hoople Mobility Aid Hoople Mobility Aid is a mobility aid developed by the Royal National College forthe Blind, UK.IlluminanceThe luminous flux falling onto a unit area of surface. Building Codeof Australia (2007).xWayfi nding design guidelines

LuminancecontrastMoBICMowat SensorNOMADNottinghamObstacle DetectorShoreline or trailSonic GuideTactileTactile signs(Refer also toBraille Signage)Tactile GroundSurface Indicator(TGSI)Luminance contrast is seen when two adjacent areas differ in the intensity of lightreflected or emitted from them. There is a difference between the light energy reachingthe observer’s eyes from the two areas and a boundary is perceived between thebrighter and darker areas. The luminance contrast is obtained by measuring theluminance factor of the surfaces and comparing them under natural and artificiallighting conditions and all weather conditions.Luminance contrast is preferred to colour contrast alone. The use of luminance contrastis very helpful to assist people who are vision impaired locate important aspectsof a building such as doorways, signs, handrails, shorelines, hazards and objectsof interest. Luminance contrast can also be used to highlight potential hazardssuch as the edges of steps or a roadway. Adapted from AS1428.4:2002 part 4:Tactile indicators, Appendix F Laboratory and On-site Measurementof Luminance Contrast (Normative).The MoBIC Travel Aid (MoTA) consists of two interrelated components: the MoBICPre-journey System (MoPS) to assist users in planning journeys and the MoBICOutdoor System (MoODS) to execute these plans by providing users with orientationand navigation assistance during journeys.Mowat Sensor is a small hand-held device that uses high-frequency sound to detectobjects within a narrow beam. The entire sensor vibrates if an object is present.NOMAD is an audio tactile tool (interface) for using and managing spatially distributedinformation by people who are blind or vision impaired.The Nottingham Obstacle Detector (NOD) is a hand-held sonar device that providesan auditory feedback that indicates eight discrete levels of distance by differentmusical tones.A shoreline is a detectable outline along, or around, part, or all, of a building. A trail isa linear path of travel or designated corridor such as building frontages and pathways.CRC for Construction Innovation (2006).The Sonic Guide is an eyeglass-configured sonar-type device available for theorientation and mobility of people who are blind. It operates by emitting towards targetobjects and receiving modulated stimuli whose intensity and frequency componentsdirectly result from the distance and physical properties of the target.Tactile means information and interpretations derived from the sense of touch.This involves sensory transfer through physical contact of the hands or feet with othersurfaces, as well as sensory transfers received by contact with non-physical elementssuch as pressure, wind and temperature. Adapted from CRC Construction Innovation(2006).Tactile signage incorporates raised text or symbols to enable touch reading by peoplewho are blind, and touch enhancement of visual perception for people who arevision impaired.TGSI are areas of raised ground surface texture treatment, designed to provide peoplewho are blind or vision impaired with warning and directional orientation information.Typically, square tiles with regular, raised patterns are laid in various patterns at keypoints to indicate where ground levels or directions change.TGSIs should be provided at the following locations:(a) stairways, escalators, ramps and travelators(b) kerb ramps and step ramps(c) pedestrian crossings at roadwaysxi

Universalaccessway (referContinuousaccessible pathof travel)Vision impairment(d) pedestrian crossings in high-use vehicular areas, e.g. car parks(e) vehicle pick-up and drop-off areas(f) railway platforms(g) passenger wharves(h) car park crossings(i) bus stops(j) trams/light rail(k) level path/carriageway junctions(l) projecting hazards in circulation spaces(m) change of direction, directional indicatorsAdapted from AS1428.2:1992 Design for access and mobility, part 2: Enhancedand additional requirements — Buildings and facilities and AS/NZ1428.4:2002Design for access and mobility, part 4: Tactile indicators.A universal accessway is a dedicated and marked route within the publicdomain that provides a continuous accessible path of travel:• within the boundary of the site from transport stops, accessible parking,accessible passenger loading zones, public streets or walkways tobuilding entrances• that connects accessible buildings, facilities and spaces on the same siteand connects building, entrances with all accessible spaces and facilitieswithin a building, and connects the entrances of each building with exteriorand interior spaces and facilities• that minimises the distances travelled between all elements of buildingsand spaces.As a guideline dimension for an external universal accessway, the spaceshould have an optimum minimum vertical and horizontal clearance of2000 mm. Wherever possible, an all-weather cover is recommended to andfrom a building, but it is essential that an all-weather cover is placed at thebuilding entrance.Vision impairment is any significant loss of sight. Adapted from AS1428.4:2002part 4: Tactile indicators.xiiWayfi nding design guidelines

1 WayfindingWayfinding is about effective communication,and relies on a succession of communication cluesdelivered through our sensory system of visual,audible, tactile and olfactory elements. There arefour primary wayfinding elements: architectural,graphic, audible, and tactile communication.In addition, clues such as culinary aromas fromcoffee shops, restaurants and aromatic plants andflowers are useful as navigational aids for peoplewho are blind or vision impaired.In Building Guidelines for Mental Health Facilities(1996), Queensland Health notes wayfinding as:The ease with which one proceeds andis facilitated through an environment fromone point of interest to another. Wayfindingsystems include such components as basiclayout of building and site, interior and exteriorlandmarks, views to outside, signs, floor androom numbering, spoken directions, maps,directories, logical progression of spaces,colour coding.The US Department of Education’s NationalInstitute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research(NIDRR) (2001) advises:Wayfinding refers to techniques used by peoplewho are blind or visually impaired as theymove from place to place independently andsafely. Wayfinding is typically divided into twocategories: orientation and mobility. Orientationconcerns the ability for one to monitor his orher position in relationship to the environment;and mobility refers to one’s ability to travelsafely, detecting and avoiding obstacles andother potential hazards. In general terms,wayfinding is the ability to: know where you are,where you are headed, and how best to getthere; recognize when you have reached yourdestination; and find your way out —all accomplished in a safe andindependent manner.Any visual wayfinding system is more than justsigns — it encompasses architecture, landscapearchitecture, lighting, and landmarks andorientation points. The design of spaces shouldassist users with spatial problem-solving byproviding consistent clues.Wayfinding systems are measured by howusers experience an environment and how thecommunicative elements facilitate getting frompoint A to point B. Wayfinding systems shouldreassure users, create a welcoming and enjoyableenvironment and, ideally, provide answers topotential queries before users have to ask forassistance. Wayfinding systems can also indicatewhere users should not go.A successful wayfinding system should provideinformation for users to:• confirm they are at the correct start or finishpoint of an individual journey• identify their location within a building or anexternal space• reinforce they are travelling in the right direction• orient themselves within a building or anexternal space• understand the location and any potentialhazards• identify their destination on arrival• escape safely in an emergency.The four main categories of graphic wayfindingelements are:• identification• reinforcement• orientation• destination.The four main criteria in wayfinding design are:• architectural clues• graphic communication• audible communication• tactile communication (Muhlhausen, 2000).Wayfinding elements, combined with wayfindingdesign provide a successful wayfinding system thatcaters for all users (CIDEA, 2001).Inclusive design and environmental accessThe Center for Inclusive Design and EnvironmentalAccess (CIDEA, 2001), New York, states:• Wayfinding is the organization andcommunication of our dynamic relationshipto space and the environment.1

CIDEA (2001) discusses the importanceof structuring a wayfinding system aroundthe design of spaces. Wayfinding requiresdesigners to organise and communicatethe dynamic relationships of space and theenvironment to allow people to:• determine their location within a setting byidentifying and marking these spaces• identify their specific destination bygrouping and linking similar spaces• develop a plan that will take them fromtheir location to their destination by linkingand organising spaces through botharchitectural and graphic means in a safebarrier-free direction of travel.Applying design principles that are largelyinherent to the way people visualise thephysical world helps identify cues within thebuilt and natural environments. The languageused to describe environmental cues forwayfinding is derived from many designdisciplines such as architecture, landscapearchitecture, town planning, surveying,geography and the now recognised professionof ‘access consulting’.Lynch (1960) is credited with coining the term‘wayfinding’ in The Image of the City, where hereferred to maps, street numbers, directionalsigns and other elements as ‘wayfindingdevices’. The terminology has developed intofive main architectural wayfinding elements:• paths and circulation• landmarks or markers• nodes• edges• zones or districts (Lynch, 1960).These architectural wayfinding elements andthe graphic wayfinding elements, togetherwith the criteria for design and organisation oflandscape, urban amenities and buildings arelargely responsible for a highly legibleand comprehensible urban environment.Wayfinding systems need to take account ofthe way people with varying abilities negotiatethe built environment. An understanding of the‘Principles of Universal Design’ is necessaryso that built spaces are accommodatingfor everyone.Principles of Universal DesignThe Principles of Universal Design weredeveloped by The Center for Universal Design(1997) in collaboration with a consortium ofuniversal design researchers and practitionersfrom across the United States. The USDepartment of Education’s National Institute onDisability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR)funded the project. Appendix A contains thePrinciples of Universal Design and guidelinesof key elements that should be present in adesign that adheres to the principles, as shownon The Center for Universal Design’s website.The Principles of Universal Design show thatinclusive design can accommodate people withvarying abilities.The seven principles may be applied toevaluate existing designs, guide the designprocess and educate designers andconsumers about the characteristics ofmore usable products and environments 1Following these principles leads to anon-discriminatory design approach andprovides increased usability for everyonewithout the need for adaptation orspecialised design.1Center for Universal Design. (1997). Compiled by Connell, B.R.,Jones, M., Mace, R., Mueller, J., Mullick, A., Ostroff, E., Sanford,J., Steinfeld, E., Story, M., Vanderheiden, G. The Principles ofUniversal Design. Version 2.0. Raleigh, NC: North Carolina StateUniversity. Retrieved 20 March 2007 from:www.design.ncsu.edu/cud/about_ud/udprinciplestext.htmwww.design.ncsu.edu/cud/about_ud/docs/use_guidelines.pdf2Wayfi nding design guidelines

Principles of Universal DesignPrinciple 1: Equitable useThe design is useful and marketable to people with diverse abilities.Principle 2: Flexibility in useThe design accommodates a wide range of individual preferences and abilities.Principle 3: Simple and intuitive useUse of the design is easy to understand, regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language skillsor current concentration level.Principle 4: Perceptible informationThe design communicates necessary information effectively to the user, regardless of ambient conditionsor the user’s sensory abilities.Principle 5: Tolerance for errorThe design minimises hazards and the adverse consequences of accidental or unintended actions.Principle 6: Low physical effortThe design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with a minimum of fatigue.Principle 7: Size and space for approach and useAppropriate size and space is provided for approach, reach, manipulation, and use regardless of user’sbody size, posture or mobility.Copyright © 1997 NC State University, The Center for Universal Design3

2 Wayfinding design principlesWayfinding design principles provide astructure to organise the environment intoa spatial hierarchy capable of supportingwayfinding tasks.The basic wayfinding design principles areas follows.• Analyse the building or site for accesspoints, taking into account the physical andaesthetic characteristics of the building orsite. How will the site be accessed?• Divide the large-scale site into distinctivesmaller parts, or zones of functional use,while preserving a ‘sense of place’ andconnectivity between spaces.• Organise the smaller parts under a simpleorganisational principle, such as ‘use’.Devise a zonation plan with a logical andrational structure.• Provide frequent directional cuesthroughout the space, particularly atdecision points along journeys in bothdirections.• The design of decision points must belogical, rational and obvious to a sighteduser, ensuring the directional cues relatedirectly to a building or landscape space.Ensure sequencing and that the priorityand grouping of message signsis unambiguous.• Design and implement a ‘naming protocol’by choosing a theme for segregating placesand spaces. Use names and symbols thatcan be easily remembered by users fromdiverse cultural backgrounds. Any namingprotocol must be flexible enough to beadapted to changing functions in a buildingor throughout a landscape or public space.• Use a sequential, logical, rational andconsistent naming protocol for places suchas hospitals or educational institutionswhere buildings have been master plannedand organised into a logical arrangement.• When considering a naming protocol ofan alpha-numeric coding system such as‘Room B3.7’, provide consistency within thecoding system. For example:– Room B3.7 reads Building ‘B’, Level 3Room 7– Room C4.6 reads Building ‘C’, Level 4Room 6– Block BS1 reads Building ‘B’ South,Entry 1– Block MN2 reads Building ‘M’ North,Entry 2.• Consider incorporating information inmultiple languages or incorporatingpictograms when devising a namingprotocol.• Ensure the physical placement,installation and illumination of signsis suitable for all users.Wayfinding mapsAlthough maps are not appropriate for everysituation, being able to quickly extract spatialinformation makes them a powerful navigationaid.Ideally, this information should be flexible, as ifthe user has obtained it from direct experience.Therefore, map design principles shouldpresent spatial information and representthe environment in a flexible andorientation-independent way.Map design principles1.2.3.4.Organise the environment into clear spaceseither by abstraction or inclusion.Show all organisational elements(paths, landmarks, districts) and use theorganisational principle of only includingimportant and memorable connections.Show the user’s position.Orient the map to the user, applying the‘forward-up equivalence principle 2 ’.2Forward-up equivalence principle’: The upward direction on amap that must always show what is in front of the viewer. Levine(2003)4Wayfi nding design guidelines

5.6.7.8.9.10.Ensure graphic communication is unambiguousand lettering is proportional to the layout so themap remains uncluttered.Use a consistent form of communicatione.g. colour coding or place names. Avoidalphanumeric coding because it is lessmemorable than place names.Limit the information and ensure it is readable.Provide sufficient information to lead the userto the next wayfinding map or directional sign.Incorporating electronic touch-screendirectories can be very useful, particularly ifa map can be printed. This type of directorycan be easily updated. However, interactivetouch-screen directories are mostly designedfor sighted users, unless purpose-designedsoftware is available (Disability RightsCommission, UK, 2006 3 ).Ensure that the map design and signage ingeneral provides three major functions:• orientation and direction (connectivitybetween present location and desiredlocation)• identification of locations• relevant information for further decisionmaking.3This document provides information about touch-screen directoriesthat are able to change text size, have colour contrast, text-to-speechsystems and navigational access keys. Retrieved 20 March 2007 fromwww.equalityhumanrights.com/pages/eocdrccre.aspx5

3 Wayfinding devices, systems and technologiesWayfinding is the ‘…ease with which oneproceeds and is facilitated through anenvironment from one point of interest toanother…’ and the ‘…techniques used bypeople who are blind or visually impaired asthey move from place to place independentlyand safely’ (Queensland Health, 1996).The aim of these design guidelines is to helpdevelopers, designers, property owners andmanagers identify viable, practical andcost-effective solutions to assist people whoare blind or vision impaired and other peoplewho require mobility assistance. This can beachieved by understanding the barriers thatrestrict safe travel paths and the techniquesemployed by users to find their destinations.These guidelines are based on currentunderstanding in cognitive psychology,linguistics and best practice in orientationand access as identified in the literatureand in practice throughout the world(Jacobson, 1998).Appendix C contains a matrix of devices,systems and technologies that provide useful,on-demand navigation information and aidsfor people who are blind or vision impaired,describing the environment and assisting themplan to reach their destinations.Many assistive devices are discussed in theCooperative Research Centre for ConstructionInnovation project Wayfinding in the builtenvironment (Stage 1, Stages 2 and 3— Final reports, 2004–06). Where possible,these reports should be consulted. It isgenerally agreed that when Tactile GroundSurface Indicators (TGSIs), raised tactilesignage and braille signage are appropriatelyplaced and designed, they are reliable,cost-effective assistive devices for peoplewho are blind or vision impaired. They arealso recognisable to sighted people.The assistive devices in Table 1 are currentlyavailable for people who are blind or visionimpaired. However, sophisticated electronicdevices have advanced rapidly, leading tosmaller, wearable devices, which are lessobtrusive but, in some cases, expensive.Equally, the degree of sophistication ofinnovative devices maybe a psychologicalbarrier, as well as an economic barrier,for many people. This issue means greateremphasis should be placed on the designof the built environment.Table 1 Assistive devices for people who areblind or vision impairedLong caneHoopleGuide dogHuman assistantLaser caneMowat sensorSonic guideNottingham obstacle detectorNOMADTactile displays, maps, arraysPersonal guidance systemMoBICAtlas StriderTalking signsAuditory beaconsElectronic stripsMotion detectorsPressure detectorsBarcode readersBeaconsBraille or auditory compassVision enhancing devices (monocular)Infrared detectors(adapted from Golledge and Stimpson,1997, p. 499).6Wayfi nding design guidelines

Table 2 identifies physical and psychologicalbarriers that can occur in the design of the builtenvironment. These barriers should be removedto provide a safe passage of travel.Table 2 Physical and psychological barriersto navigating through the builtenvironment for people who are blindor vision impairedPavement furnitureCars parked on pavement (sidewalk)Inability to read visual cues (e.g. street signs)Construction and repairIrregular, uneven or broken surfaceCrowds of peopleStepsTraffic lights without audible or pedestriansequenceWeatherLack of railingsImperceptible kerb cuts (dropped kerbs)ElevatorsDistanceDoor locationDoor handlesNonstandard fixtures (shop front rails,baskets and stalls)Traffic hazardsSurface textures (lack of)Overhead obstructions (overhanging signs,cables, vegetation)Lack of cues (e.g. uniform open space)Gradient(adapted from Golledge and Stimpson,1997, p. 493).Wayfinding requires designers to organise andcommunicate the dynamic relationships of spaceand the environment to allow people to:• determine their location within a setting byidentifying and marking these spaces• identify their specific destination by groupingand linking similar spaces• develop a plan that will take them from theirlocation to their destination by linking andorganising spaces through both architecturaland graphic means in a safe barrier-freedirection of travel.These guidelines do not recommend prescriptivedesign standards; instead they provide universaldesign solutions and strategies that broaden andenhance the usability of buildings and sitesfor everyone, including people who are blindor vision impaired or people who aremobility impaired.7

4 Design solutions and strategiesThese suggested design solutions andstrategies include wayfinding designcriteria and design principles for criticaldecision-making points within the builtenvironment. The suggested designsolutions and strategies are additional to anyrequirements of the Building Code of Australiafor wayfinding.Communicating spatial informationAt a perceptual level, the sensory impairmentof people who are blind or vision impairedlimits information gathering from bothprimary and secondary sources. Althoughthere are sophisticated sight-compensatingtechnologies, most technical aids only addenvironmental cues to the information alreadygathered through auditory, tactile,olfactory and kinaesthetic means. The extent towhich a person who is blind or vision impairedhas an understanding of place with spatialreference is unclear. The environment they areable to perceive in their mind has relativelyfew unique locational cues — tactile cues likekerb and building lines are often repeated andauditory or olfactory cues may be temporal andephemeral. There is a need to develop effectivemethods of communicating spatial informationby non-visual means to improve quality of lifethrough increased mobility and independence(Jacobson and Kitchin, 1997).The literature reveals a number of issuesfor people who are blind or vision impairedthat can be easily addressed throughwayfinding systems.Issue: informative materialConsider producing information such aslocational maps, bus and train timetablesand schedules in braille or large print.Ensure signs on entries to buildings, complexesand public transport vehicles are large.Where possible, provide an information deskwith informed staff to assist people locate adestination. The literature reveals that touch-toneaccess to pre-recorded messages, voice-mailor computerised query systems are universallydisliked (Jacobson and Kitchin, 1997).Issue: arrival point or address of thefacility or buildingAll buildings and facilities have a number ofentries or arrival points. However, the addressof a building or facility provides its identity orarrival point for occupants and visitors.Clearly identify the address of the building orfacility with its name, street address and anappropriate marker or landmark.Design the arrival point as the main entry,not as a secondary entry.Issue: unidentified main entry or arrivalpointFor many buildings and facilities, the arrivalpoint is not easily distinguishable because ofcompeting infrastructure such as bus stops, taxiranks, adjacent businesses or ‘A’ frame signage;however, what may be seen as clutter is alsobusiness infrastructure.Ensure that entry points to all buildings andfacilities have direct access with clearly markedboundaries for pedestrians, are free of clutterand are separated and protected from roadsand bicycle or skating paths.Directory systems should provide visitors andoccupants with sufficient information to ensurea successful arrival point and ease of accessto further destination points.Provide a directory system using the‘forward-up equivalence principle 4 ’ thatincorporates sensory elements for people ofall abilities. A directory system should includetactile elements such as braille, surface finishesand raised character signage; graphic elementssuch as pictograms; and audible elements,which may include integrating both audio-tactilemaps, visual and other forms of communicationtriggered by infrared light or movement sensors.Where suitable, an audible directory systemshould consist of short, simple and straightforwardmessages, unique to the building or site.Repeated messages should only provide keyreference points such as ‘You are entering the4‘Forward-up equivalence principle’: The upward directionon a map that must always show what is in front of theviewer. Levine (2003).8Wayfi nding design guidelines

foyer of the building’; ‘Information desk forward threemetres’; or ‘Lifts three metres forward, then turn right’.Ensure that all access points to all buildings andfacilities entrances have direct access with clearlymarked boundaries for pedestrians, free of clutterand are separated and protected from vehicularroadways and bicycle/skating pathways.A route within the public domain should bedeclared and referred to as a ‘universal accessway’(PROWAAC, 2001) to distinguish its importance asa public right of way.The universal accessway should be clearly markedusing surface-level markers at a nominal distancedetermined by site context and design, with atleast two surface-level markers at either end of theaccessway labeling it as a ‘universal accessway’with directional arrows indicating the direction ofthe ‘universal accessway’ from the marker.Surface-level markers are not tactile groundsurface indicators (TGSI). Discreet surface-levelmarkers include, for example, 75 mm diameterbrass inscribed plates or ceramic plates laid on thepavement surface. The universal accessway shouldalso be labelled with directional arrows.As a guide, an external universal accessway shouldhave an optimum minimum vertical and horizontalclearance of 2000 mm. Wherever possible, anall-weather cover is recommended to and from abuilding. It is essential that an all-weather cover isplaced at the building entrance.The width of pedestrian pathways, roads andbicycle or skating paths is governed by theexpected volume and direction of traffic flows andcodified building standards. Wherever possible,provide separate pedestrian access paths toensure safety from all other path users.All paths should be accessible unless users canbe directed to alternative paths. Clearly indicateany potential hazards and the destination pointwith TGSIs or audible warning or directory systemswith details about distance to travel for example,‘Building entry 40 metres in direction of travel’.Clearly marked boundaries can be defined byunobstructed edges of pathways with continuousupright kerbs, low walls, building faces,continuous handrails, raised planters, hedges,a continuous planting strip, luminance contrastingcolours or textures and materials.Wherever possible, maintain an uninterruptedshoreline 5 to at least one boundary edge,for example a building face, raised plantersor a glass barrier.These measures assist people who are blind orvision impaired and can be detected by a personusing a long cane.Consider incorporating sensory design elementssuch as perfumed plants, moving water orelectronically triggered audible locationalmessages.Obstructions and hazards that may intrude intothe path of travel include drainage grates, signs,overhanging trees, access holes, light fixtures,smokers’ wall ashtrays and benches. Theseobstructions should not be within the universalaccessway.Ensure that all potentially hazardous obstaclesare marked. Hazardous obstacles include gradechanges at stairs, escalators, travelators,ramps and transition areas. Mark these areaswith luminance contrasting colours, textures,tactile devices or other materials to alert usersto the potential hazards.Internally, the use of contrasting skirting boards,border edging to carpet, and contrasting wall–floor interfaces are examples of defining markedboundaries (edges) for the path of travel.Using contrasting edges (luminance and texture)of pathways, corridors and rooms will assist peoplewho are blind or vision impaired maintain a straightdirection of travel. Handrails along pathways act asa physical guide for people to travel confidently totheir destination.People who are blind or vision impaired usemultiple senses to navigate spaces.Therefore, reducing excessive noise by locatingservice and maintenance functions away frompublic areas can assist navigation.Public safety and emergency assistance is alsoimportant. Ensure emergency communicationsequipment is positioned at strategic locations.These devices can act as significant landmarks andenable emergency staff to quickly locate people.Use video camera surveillance as a deterrent inhigh-risk areas.5Shoreline and trails: A shoreline is a detectable outline along, or around,part or all of a building. A trail is a linear path of travel, or designatedcorridor, such as building frontages and pathways.9

Ensure accessible parking spaces areprovided close to the main entry ofbuildings and are located adjacentto a universal accessway.Issue: internal arrival pointThe entry to any building should provide asafe, equitable and dignified access for allusers. Automatic opening doors at a buildingentry are welcoming and directional elements,especially for people who are blind or visionimpaired.Buildings should be welcoming to all visitors.The layout of foyers and reception andinformation desks plays an essential part ininforming and directing enquiries. Receptionand information desks should be oriented sothat arriving visitors can be seen and are withinclose proximity to ‘You are here’ building mapsand internal directories so attendants canassist visitors with directions.Information desks should be attended bypeople with knowledge of the building’soccupants and facilities. Regardless of whetherthere is an attendant at the information desk,a self-help telephone should be available forperiods when the desk is unattended.Interior colour schemes, consistentlighting, contrasting wall–floor covering andarchitectural finishes are important designelements that can define a space and offerdirectional guidance for people who are blindor vision impaired to find their way aroundthe building.Issue: graphic communicationSigns, maps, colour coding, banners, websites,directional information, identification andregulatory information are all examples ofgraphic communication.Signs that assist wayfinding include directoryboards and reference maps, identification,directional, information, safety andregulatory signs.The consistent physical placement, installationand illumination of signs must be suitable forpeople who are blind or vision impaired.Many signs are not legible when viewed froma distance. The following recommendations canassist in the optimal readability of signs.• Colour contrast on the sign.• Luminance contrast between thebackground and the letters and graphics.• Clear definition of buildings, roads,pathways, bridges and other builtelements such as landmarks or prominentsite features.• Sufficient detail of the building form orlayout, maintaining the hierarchy of formand layout.• Informative content providing unambiguousdirections.• Combination of pictograms, raised tactilesignage letters and numbers, and braillesignage. Raised tactile signage and braillesignage should be positioned between1200 mm and 1600 mm above ground orfloor level, outside the swing of doorwaysor other fixtures, so it can be read withoutphysical discomfort to the reader.• Suitable font style and spacing betweenletters and words. For example, acombination of uppercase and lowercaseletters is easier to read than all uppercase.The size, type and layout of lettering onsigns should be clearly legible and easilyunderstood. Typeface should be SansSerif — Arial, MS Sans Serif, Tahoma,Futura, Geneva and Helvetica Medium arepreferred. The size and spacing betweenletters and words should be in proportionto the size of the sign and amount ofinformation provided.• Avoid reflective surfaces which will hindervisibility and comprehension.• Position lighting to reduce glare on signagewith reflective surfaces.10Wayfi nding design guidelines

Issue: restrooms and toilet facilitiesWherever possible, maintain an unobstructedpath of travel to restrooms and toilet facilities.Clearly identify public facilities by using accessiblesignage including pictograms, raised tactilesignage and braille signage on the wall adjacentto doorway.Locate directional signage and pictograms forrestrooms and toilet facilities at all key traveldecision points, in the most visible location andperpendicular to the path of travel.Issue: liftsLocate reception and information desks near liftsso that attendants can assist visitors with directions.Fit lifts with backlit, large tactile buttons with raisedtactile signage letters and numbers and braillesignage. Audible outputs should indicate floorlevels.Issue: signagePlace signs in transitional areas to reassure peoplethey are on the correct route. The maximumdistance between information or directional signs inlong corridors should be no greater than 30 metres.Maps can be used to supplement directionalinformation at key decision points to reduce theamount of directional signage needed.Issue: viewing distance to signageViewing distance is a concept printing and signageindustries use to capture attention for an image ondisplay. Viewing distance is also closely related withthe resolution and size of an image.The concept of viewing distance requires anunderstanding of perspective theory as theresolution of the image, and its detail, is alwaystaken from where the viewer is positioned andwhether the viewer is standing, walking, sittingor viewing from a moving vehicle. The clarity ofatmospherics such as light and shade and weatherconditions also plays a part in viewing distance.Construction materials and the position of signs arealso important.The simple rule of viewing distance is that thecloser a person is to an object, the higher theresolution of the image needs to be. The perceptionof the human eye varies from person to person,and some people are vision impaired, so the onlytrue viewing distance comparison is the distance atwhich most people can see the image or sign.Lettering height depends on the importance ofthe sign, the architectural detail at the buildingentrance, the size of sign for its location andplacement, as well as the distance from which itshould be read.The literature varies on recommended minimumletter heights and viewing distances. However, it issuggested that for sighted people, 50 mm minimumheight is an acceptable standard for visual legibilityat a maximum of 15 metres.Other suggested minimum letter heights for varioussign types include:• vehicular direction signs, internal roads,carparks and service areas: 60 mm• external pedestrian direction signs: 60 mm• internal direction signs: 30 mm• building directory listings: 20 mm• door signs: 17 mm• tactile lettering: 15 mm (55 mm maximum) 6 .For road signs, the speed of travel and the numberof letters in the message bring in other factors;however, for lower road speed environmentssuch as university campuses and hospitals, theletter height used for public roads is acceptable.Direction signs require a greater letter height thaninformation signs (Greg and Signcorp, 2003). Referto Appendix B for more details on suggested letterheights.6For tactile lettering, the width of the character should allow for bothsides of the embossed shape to be felt.11

5 Signage hierarchical structureEach sign has a hierarchal structure thatcommunicates meaningful content forindividual readers. The hierarchical structure is:• the colour scheme and general layout asthe base, or background, layerTable 3 Signage hierarchyDesign elementsBackground colourMarketing image or overall presentationText coloursLuminance contrastColour contrastMaps, logos, pictograms,symbols and artworkText and directional arrowsTactile informationBrailleSignage information in multiple languages• specific logos, maps, pictograms andother symbols or artwork layered ontop of the base• textual information and directional arrowsproviding specific details.The signage hierarchy is depicted in Table 3.Meaning and contentCorporate or organisation’s imageCorporate colour scheme and styleSign system hierarchyColour consistency as established by designprotocolCorporate or organisation’s imageInternational symbols or pictogramsFacility or building layoutTactile signage incorporates raised text andsymbols to enable touch-reading by people whoare blind and allow touch enhancement of visualperception for people who are vision impaired.Braille signage is a specialist wayfinding devicethat incorporates Unified English Braille Code(UEBC) Grade 1 braille as a primary source ofinformation for people who are blind or visionimpaired and may be supplemented by raisedtactile lettering, maps or pictorial images. Figure 1 Signage hierarchy exampleThis Metlink sign incorporates a number of design elementsthat provide meaning and content when read together.The signage hierarchical structure provides a layering ofinformation that is easily understood and provides simpledirections and messages for individual readers.Copyright: Image courtesy of Metlink Victoria Pty LtdSign legibilityEffective signs should communicate a clearmessage. While words and phrasing areimportant elements of effective signs the mostsignificant influence on legibility is typeface.Arial, MS Sans Serif, Tahoma, Futura, Geneva andHelvetica Medium typefaces are some examplesthat people who are vision impaired find easier toread. Title case (lower case with an initial capital)or lower case are also easier to read.12Wayfi nding design guidelines

System design criteriaInterior signage systems should be designed tomeet the following criteria:• uniformity throughout all buildings and externalspaces• consistency in sign types to identify andrecognise signage, for example, consistentmaterials and construction; consistent typeface,colours and logos; consistent graphic layoutsand consistent overall appearance• standardised message design, nomenclatureand application protocols for each sign type• standardised graphic protocols applied totypeface (font), colours, logos, arrows andpictograms 7• standardised room numbering and namingsystem protocol• message legibility, considering the informationfrom the perspective of a variety of users:occupants, visitors, service people and peoplewho are vision impaired or mobility impaired• standardised signage placement protocol foreach sign type considering the placement ofsigns for people with disabilities.or space with text indicating current location,landmarks, features, routes and other amenities.Directory boards guide visitors to specificdestinations, facilities and amenities. Interpretativesigns provide users with more detailed informationabout the their surroundings by explaining thesignificance of what they may be feeling, touching,seeing and hearing.Directional signsDirectional signs are typically wall-mounted oroverhead signs and include directional arrows.Safety, regulatory, prohibition andadvisory signsSafety, regulatory, prohibition and advisory signsare used to help control movement and activityfor user safety, comfort and site managementby providing information about known dangersand warning against unsafe behaviours.Examples include fire exits, disability car parksand clearway areas.Types of signsThere are four types of signs:• identification• information• directional• safety or regulatory, prohibition and advisory(ADAS, 1999).Identification signsIdentification signs, also referred to as ‘destinationsigns’, typically identify entrances, streetaddresses, buildings, rooms, facilities, placesand spaces.Information signsInformation signs inform users about the featuresand facilities of a place or space. Information signsinclude directories, maps, building identificationsigns, notices and interpretative signs. Orientationmaps provide a graphic layout of a building7For guidance refer to BS8501:2002, the withdrawn AS2899.1:1986and ISO 7001:2007.13

Figure 2 Map design and signageLocation: State Library of Queensland andGallery of Modern Art (GoMA) at Stanley Place,South BrisbaneThis map design and signage provides thethree major functions of basic map designprinciples: orientation or direction (connectivitybetween present location and desired location);identification of locations; and relevantinformation for further decision making. Notethe use of raised tactile lettering and braille,the ‘You are here’ graphics and the identificationof major attractions and public facilities. Thephysical placement, installation and illuminationof signage must be suitable for everyone.This sign was developed in 2006 as part of theMillennium Arts Project at the Cultural Centre, aninitiative of the Queensland Government throughArts Queensland. The Millennium Arts Project atthe Cultural Centre included the construction ofthe new GoMA, redevelopment of the State Libraryof Queensland and construction of associatedinfrastructure. Project Manager: Department ofPublic WorksState Library of QueenslandArchitects: Designed in association with Brisbanebasedarchitectural firms Donovan Hill PeddleThorp architects. The design was selected fromthe Millennium Library Project Architects SelectionCompetition (2001).Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA)Architects: Architectus Sydney (Kerry and LindsayClare, 2002) were the Design Directors for thewinning entry of the Queensland Gallery of ModernArt International Design Competition.Access Consultant: Disability Access ConsultantsPty Ltd (Trevor Beardsmore)Environmental Graphic Designer: Dot Dash,BrisbaneSign Contractor: Albert Smith Group, BrisbaneManaging Contractor: Bovis Lend LeasePhotography by: Amanda McLucas 30 March 2007Copyright: Department of Public Works.14Wayfi nding design guidelines

Figure 3 The Arbour — universal accesswayLocation: Southbank Parklands, South BrisbaneThe Arbour, covered in vibrant magentabougainvillea plants, acts as a spine throughthe centre of the parklands for one kilometre,leading the way to the parklands’ many attractions.This environmental design guidance feature(horticultural and landscape architectural designfeature) enables visitors to orientate themselvesfrom many locations within the parklands. Althoughnot marked as a universal accessway, it is a clearlydedicated and marked route within the publicdomain that distinguishes its importance as apublic right of way.Master Planner: Denton Corker Marshall, Architectureand Urban Design, MelbournePhotography by: Amanda McLucas 30 March 2007Copyright: Department of Public Works. Figure 4 Arbour and canopy — universalaccesswayLocation: Southbank Parklands, South BrisbaneAlong the Arbour, amid the canopy of thebougainvillea, is a ribbon of yellow steel thatprovides shade and weather protection, but alsoacts as a recognised landmark (marker), identifyingthe adjacent places of the riverside restaurants,cafes and Suncorp Piazza. Shade and shelter areimportant environmental design guidance features.Master Planner: Denton Corker Marshall, Architectureand Urban Design, MelbournePhotography by: Amanda McLucas 30 March 2007Copyright: Department of Public Works.15

Figure 5 Landmark (marker) and tactilewayfinding trailLocation: Brisbane Square, George andAdelaide Streets, North QuayThis sign acts as a recognised landmark(marker) within the streetscape, identifyingone of the entries to Brisbane Square and thecommunity assets of the Brisbane City CouncilLibrary and Brisbane City Council CustomerService Centre. The marker provides importantinformation for visitors to the square. The mapdesign uses raised tactile lettering and braille,‘You are here’ graphics and shows the directionof the major building attractions. Note the useof TGSIs at the base on the sign. The TGSIsform part of a designed tactile wayfinding trail,also referred to as a ‘tactile guide pathway’.TGSIs are important to assist in safe wayfinding;however, they should not be over-used orover-prescribed. Designers should make fulluse of the range of environmental guidancefeatures available to minimise inconvenience toother members of the community.Brisbane Square Architect: Denton Corker MarshallArchitecture and Urban Design, MelbourneAccess Consultants (External): Andrew Sandersonof Blythe-Sanderson Group, MelbourneAccess Consultants (Internal and Brisbane CityCouncil External Adviser): John Deshon of JohnDeshon Pty LtdEnvironmental Graphic Designer: Dot Dash,BrisbaneSignage Contractor: K-Vee Signs, BrisbaneDesign and Construct Contractor: BaulderstoneHornibrookPhotography by: Amanda McLucas 30 March 2007Copyright: Department of Public Works.16Wayfi nding design guidelines

Figure 6 Tactile wayfinding trail and shorelineLocation: Brisbane Square, North QuayThis arrangement of tactile ground surfaceindicators (TGSI), directional and warning(decision-making) tactile tiles, provides a directionof travel to what is commonly referred to as a‘shoreline’, the building’s edge or a physicalproperty edge. Note the unobstructed spacealong the length of the wall. Where the TGSI is anintegrated unit, it should have a minimum luminancecontrast of 30% compared to the amount of lightreflected from the surface of the adjacent path oftravel. A shoreline must be free of obstacles thatcould interrupt the continuous path of travel.A minimum obstacle-free space should be2000 mm x 1500 mm (height x width) adjacentto the shoreline.Brisbane Square Architect: Denton Corker MarshallArchitecture and Urban Design, MelbourneAccess Consultants (External): Andrew Sanderson ofBlythe-Sanderson Group, MelbourneAccess Consultants (Internal and Brisbane City CouncilExternal Adviser): John Deshon of John Deshon Pty LtdEnvironmental Graphic Designer: Dot Dash, BrisbaneSignage Contractor: K-Vee Signs, BrisbaneDesign and Construct Contractor: BaulderstoneHornibrookPhotography by: Amanda McLucas 30 March 2007Copyright: Department of Public Works.17

Figure 7 Tactile wayfinding trail and shorelineLocation: Brisbane Square, North QuayA shoreline is a very effective device that canbe easily accommodated by not placing streetfurniture such as seats, rubbish bins, andsignage or drink fountains within the dedicatedaccessway. This zone can easily be marked asa universal accessway, reminding users of theimportance of an unobstructed space alongthe length of the path of travel.Brisbane Square Architect: Denton Corker MarshallArchitecture and Urban Design, MelbourneAccess Consultants (External): Andrew Sandersonof Blythe-Sanderson Group, MelbourneAccess Consultants (Internal and Brisbane CityCouncil External Adviser): John Deshon of JohnDeshon Pty LtdEnvironmental Graphic Designer: Dot Dash,BrisbaneSignage Contractor: K-Vee Signs, Brisbane.Design and Construct Contractor: BaulderstoneHornibrookPhotography by: Amanda McLucas 30 March 2007Copyright: Department of Public Works.Recommended readingADAS. (1999). Good Sign Practices. ADASin association with E. Collis, Eye Catch SignsLtd Nova Scotia, Canada, and I. Peterson,Automated Disability Access Systems, Brisbaneand Melbourne Australia. The original documentwas modified, with permission, for the Australiancontext by B. Tolliday and I. Peterson, BrailliantTouch, Australia.Barker, P. and Fraser J. (2000). Sign DesignGuide. London: JMU Access Partnership andSign Design Society in association with RoyalNational Institute of the Blind, London.18Wayfi nding design guidelines

6 ReferencesDepartment of Urban Services. (n.d.) DesignStandards for Urban Infrastructure 25 Urban ParkAnd Open Space Signage. Based on the SignagePolicy for Canberra Urban Parks and Placesprepared by Minale Tattersfield Bryce & Partners(July 2001) with technical advice from landscapearchitects Dorrough Britz and Associates. Edition1 Revision 0. Canberra:Australian Capital TerritoryGovernment. Retrieved 17 November 2006 fromhttp://www.parksandplaces.act.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/28337/25_Urban_Park__and__Open_Space_Signage_Edition_1_Revision_0.pdfand http://www.parksandplaces.act.gov.au/publicplaces/designstandardsADAS. (1999). Good Sign Practices. ADASin association with E. Collis, Eye Catch SignsLtd Nova Scotia, Canada, and I. Peterson,Automated Disability Access Systems, Brisbaneand Melbourne Australia. The original documentwas modified, with permission, for the Australiancontext by B. Tolliday and I. Peterson, BrailliantTouch, Australia.Arditi, A. (2005). Effective Color Contrast:Designing for People with Partial Sight and ColorDeficiencies. Retrieved 17 November 2006 fromLighthouse International http://www.lighthouse.org/color_contrast.htmBarker, P. & Fraser J. (2000). Sign Design Guide,JMU Access Partnership and Sign Design Society,Royal National Institute of the Blind, London.Berger, C. (2005). Wayfinding: designing andimplementing graphic navigational systems.Mies: Hove, RotoVision.Center for Inclusive Design and EnvironmentalAccess. (2001). Universal Design New York, 4.1CWayfinding. New York: A City of New York Office ofthe Mayor Publication, Center for Inclusive Designand Environmental Access, School of Architectureand Planning. Retrieved 17 November 2006 fromhttp://www.ap.buffalo.edu/idea/udny/index.htmand http://www.ap.buffalo.edu/idea/udny/Section4-1c.htmCenter for Universal Design. (1997). Compiledby Connell, B.R., Jones, M., Mace, R., Mueller,J., Mullick, A., Ostroff, E., Sanford, J., Steinfeld,E., Story, M., Vanderheiden, G. The Principles ofUniversal Design. Version 2.0. Raleigh, NC: NorthCarolina State University. Retrieved 17 November2006 from http://www.design.ncsu.edu/cud/about_ud/udprinciplestext.htmhttp://www.design.ncsu.edu/cud/about_ud/docs/use_guidelines.pdfCRC for Construction Innovation (2004, 2006).Wayfinding in the Built Environment – Reports(Stage 1, 2 and Stage 3 – Final). Brisbane:Queensland University of Technology. Retrievedfrom http://www.construction-innovation.info/index.php?id=59 and http://www.construction-innovation.info/index.php?id=956Gregg B. & Signcorp Australasia. (2003). UTSSign Standards Manual. Sydney: University ofTechnology. Harry Williamson prepared the originalmanual, dated July 1996. Minale Tattersfield Bryceand Partners (MTB&P) expanded this volumeconsiderably in October 1998. Signcorp Australasiaprepared an upgrade of the existing UTS SignageStandards manual in September 2003. Retrieved17 November 2006 from http://www.fmu.uts.edu.au/policies/Downloads/UTSSignStandards.pdfGolledge, R.G. & Stimpson, R.J. (1997). SpatialBehaviour: a geographic perspective. New York:The Guilford Press.Golledge, R.G. & Stimpson, R.J. (1997). pp.493 and 499. Extracted from Jacobson R.D.(1998). Cognitive Mapping without Sight: FourPreliminary Studies of Spatial Learning, Journal ofEnvironmental Psychology 18, pp. 289–305.Jacobson R.D. (1998). Cognitive Mapping withoutSight: Four Preliminary Studies of Spatial Learning.Journal of Environmental Psychology, 18,pp. 289–305.Jacobson R.D. & Kitchin, R.M. (1997). GIS andpeople with visual impairments or blindness:Exploring the potential for education, orientationand navigation. Pearson Professional Limited. pp.315–332. Belfast: School of Geosciences, Queen’sUniversity.Lam W.M.C. & Ripman, C.H. (1992). Perception& Lighting as Formgivers in Architecture. New York:Van Nostrand Reinhold.Levine, D. ed. (2003). The NYC Guidebook toAccessibility and Universal Design. New York:Center for Inclusive Design & Environmental19

Access, University at Buffalo, The StateUniversity of New York. Retrieved 17 November2006 from http://home.nyc.gov/html/ddc/pdf/udny/udny2.pdfLynch, K. (1960). The Image of the City.Cambridge: MIT Press.Muhlhausen, J. (2000). Wayfinding is notsignage: signage plays an important part ofwayfinding, but there’s more. Signs of theTimes. Retrieved 17 November 2006 from http://www.signweb.com/index.php/channel/6/id/1433/National Institute on Disability and RehabilitationResearch. (2001) Notice of Proposed FundingPriorities for Fiscal Years 2001–2003 for threeDisability and Rehabilitation Research Projects.Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/nidrr/index.htmlhttp://www.ed.gov/legislation/FedRegister/finrule/2001-3/070601b.htmlNHS Estates. (n.d.) Improving the PatientExperience Wayfinding. London: Departmentof Health, UK Government. Retrieved 17November 2006 from http://patientexperience.nhsestates.gov.uk/wayfinding/wf_content/home/home.aspPassini, R. (1992). Wayfinding in Architecture.New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold.Pollet D. & Haskell P. C. (1979). Sign Systems forLibraries: Solving the Wayfinding Problem.New York: R.R. Bowker Company.PROWAAC. (2001). Public Rights-of-WayAccess Advisory Committee (PROWAAC) forthe Architectural and Transportation BarriersCompliance Board (Access Board) FinalReport: referred to as an ‘Universal AccessCorridor’ at p.161 Appendix H Minority Reportsubmitted by Hol’Lynn d’Lil: What to Callthe ‘Accessible Route’. 17 November 2006from http://www.access-board.gov/prowac/commrept/PROWreport.pdfQueensland Health. (1996). Building Guidelinesfor Queensland Mental Health Facilities.Brisbane: Queensland Government. Retrieved17 November 2006 fromhttp://www.health.qld.gov.au/cwamb/mhguide/1934B_GuideSec_2.pdfRoyal Blind Society of NSW and ACT. (2003).Accessible design recommendations for peoplewith vision impairment. Retrieved 17 November2006 from http://www.rbs.org.au/about/factsheets/Accessible Design.docUniversity of New South Wales. (n.d.) Buildingsand Grounds, Signage and Directory Boards,Signage Guidelines Part 6.0. Sydney: Universityof New South Wales, Facilities Department.Retrieved 20 March 2007 from http://www.facilities.unsw.edu.au/Buildings/Signage_Standards.pdf and http://www.facilities.unsw.edu.au/Buildings/signage.htmVision Australia. (2006). Accessible Designfor Public Buildings Signage. Retrieved 17November 2006 from http://www.rvib.org.au/info.aspx?page=721#SignageTechnical referencesBuilding Code of Australia 2007Australian StandardsAS1288:2006 Glass in buildings— Selection and installationAS1428.1:2001 Design for access and mobility,part 1: General requirements for access— New building workAS1428.2:1992 Design for access and mobility,part 2: Enhanced and additional requirements— Buildings and facilitiesAS/NZS 1428.4: 2002 Design for accessand mobility, part 4: Tactile indicatorsAS1670.4: 2004 Fire detection, warning,control and intercom systems — Systemdesign, installation and commissioning,part 4: Sound systems and intercom systemsfor emergency purposesAS/NZS1680.0:1998 Interior lighting,part 0: Safe movementAS1735.1: 2003 Lifts, escalators and movingwalks, part 1: General requirementsAS1735.12:1999 Lifts, escalators and movingwalks, part 12: Facilities for personswith disabilitiesAS1744:1975 Standard alphabets forroad signs — Metric units20Wayfi nding design guidelines

AS2293.1:2005 Emergency escape lighting andexit signs for buildings, part 1: System design,installation and operationAS2700:1996 Colour Standards forgeneral purposesAS/NZS2890.1:2004 Parking facilities,part 1: Off-street car parkingAS2890.5:1993 Parking facilities, part 5:On-street parkingAS2899.1:1986 Public information symbol signs,part 1: General information signs (withdrawn)AS4428.4: 2004 Fire detection, warning, controland intercom systems — Control and indicatingequipment Part 4: Intercommunication systemsfor emergency purposesBritish StandardsBS8501: 2002 Graphical symbols and signs.Public information symbolsInternational StandardsISO7001: 2007 Graphical symbols— Public information symbols7 Further readingBarker, P., Barrick, J. & Wilson, R. (1995). BuildingSight, London: RNIB.Bentzen, B. L. (1997). Environmental Accessibility.In B. B. Blasch, W.R. Wiener & R.L. Welsh (Eds.),Foundations of Orientation and Mobility 2nd ednNew York: AFB Press.Bright, K., Cook, G. & Harris, J. (1997). A designguide for the use of COLOUR and CONTRAST toimprove the built environment for visually impairedpeople. United Kingdom: Project Rainbow,University of Reading.Bright, K., Cook, G. & Harris, J. (1997). Colour,Contrast & Perception, Design Guidance forInternal Built Environments. United Kingdon:Project Rainbow, University of Reading.Jacobson R.D. & Kitchin, R.M. (1997). GIS andpeople with visual impairments or blindness:Exploring the potential for education, orientationand navigation, Pearson Professional Limited,pp. 315–332. Belfast: School of Geosciences,Queen’s University.Jacobson R.D. (1998). Cognitive Mapping withoutSight: Four Preliminary Studies of Spatial Learning,Journal of Environmental Psychology 18pp. 289–305. Belfast: School of Geosciences,Queen’s University.Jacobson R.D. (1999). Talking Tactile Maps andEnvironmental Audio Beacons: An Orientation andMobility Development Tool for Visually ImpairedPeople. Ceredigion: Institute of Earth Studies,University of Wales Aberystwyth. Retrieved 17November 2006 from http://www.immerse.ucalgary.ca/publications/llub1.pdfLevine, D. ed. (2003). The NYC Guidebook toAccessibility and Universal Design. New York:Center for Inclusive Design & EnvironmentalAccess, - (also referred to as Universal DesignNew York) University at Buffalo, The StateUniversity of New York. Retrieved 17 November2006 from http://home.nyc.gov/html/ddc/pdf/udny/udny2.pdfLynch, K. (1960). The Image of the City.Cambridge: MIT Press.Passini, R. (1992). Wayfinding in Architecture.New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold.21

Appendix APrinciples of Universal DesignFollowing are the Principles of Universal Designand guidelines (1997) as displayed on TheCenter for Universal Design website, Raleigh,NC: North Carolina State University.Version 2.0 – 4 January 1997.Compiled by advocates of universal design,listed in alphabetical order:Bettye Rose Connell, Mike Jones, Ron Mace,Jim Mueller, Abir Mullick, Elaine Ostroff, JonSanford, Ed Steinfeld, Molly Story and GreggVanderheiden.Major funding provided by The National Instituteon Disability and Rehabilitation Research, USDepartment of Education.Copyright 1997 NC State University, The Centerfor Universal Design.Universal Design: The design of products andenvironments to be usable by all people, to thegreatest extent possible, without the need foradaptation or specialized design.The authors, a working group of architects,product designers, engineers andenvironmental design researchers, collaboratedto establish the following Principles of UniversalDesign to guide a wide range of designdisciplines including environments, products,and communications. These seven principlesmay be applied to evaluate existing designs,guide the design process and educateboth designers and consumers about thecharacteristics of more usable products andenvironments.The Principles of Universal Design arepresented here, in the following format:name of the principle, intended to be a conciseand easily remembered statement of the keyconcept embodied in the principle; definitionof the principle, a brief description of theprinciple’s primary directive for design; andguidelines, a list of the key elements that shouldbe present in a design which adheres to theprinciple. (Note: all guidelines may not berelevant to all designs).PRINCIPLE ONE: Equitable UseThe design is useful and marketable topeople with diverse abilities.Guidelines:1a. Provide the same means of use for all users:identical whenever possible; equivalentwhen not.1b. Avoid segregating or stigmatizing any users.1c. Provisions for privacy, security, and safetyshould be equally available to all users.1d. Make the design appealing to all users.PRINCIPLE TWO: Flexibility in UseThe design accommodates a wide range ofindividual preferences and abilities.Guidelines:2a. Provide choice in methods of use.2b. Accommodate right- or left-handed accessand use.2c. Facilitate the user’s accuracy and precision.2d. Provide adaptability to the user’s pace.PRINCIPLE THREE: Simple and Intuitive UseUse of the design is easy to understand,regardless of the user’s experience,knowledge, language skills, or currentconcentration level.Guidelines:3a. Eliminate unnecessary complexity.3b. Be consistent with user expectations andintuition.3c. Accommodate a wide range of literacy andlanguage skills.3d. Arrange information consistent with itsimportance.3e. Provide effective prompting and feedbackduring and after task completion.22Wayfi nding design guidelines

PRINCIPLE FOUR: Perceptible InformationThe design communicates necessaryinformation effectively to the user, regardlessof ambient conditions or the user’s sensoryabilities.Guidelines:4a. Use different modes (pictorial, verbal, tactile)for redundant presentation of essentialinformation.4b. Provide adequate contrast between essentialinformation and its surroundings.4c. Maximize “legibility” of essential information.4d. Differentiate elements in ways that canbe described (i.e., make it easy to giveinstructions or directions).4e. Provide compatibility with a variety oftechniques or devices used by people withsensory limitations.PRINCIPLE FIVE: Tolerance for ErrorThe design minimizes hazards and the adverseconsequences of accidental or unintendedactions.Guidelines:5a. Arrange elements to minimize hazards anderrors: most used elements, most accessible;hazardous elements eliminated, isolated, orshielded.5b. Provide warnings of hazards and errors.5c. Provide fail safe features.5d. Discourage unconscious action in tasks thatrequire vigilance.PRINCIPLE SEVEN: Size and Space forApproach and UseAppropriate size and space is provided forapproach, reach, manipulation, and useregardless of user’s body size, posture, ormobility.Guidelines:7a. Provide a clear line of sight to importantelements for any seated or standing user.7b. Make reach to all components comfortable forany seated or standing user.7c. Accommodate variations in hand andgrip size.7d. Provide adequate space for the use of assistivedevices or personal assistance.Please note that the Principles of Universal Designaddress only universally usable design, while thepractice of design involves more than considerationfor usability. Designers must also incorporate otherconsiderations such as economic, engineering,cultural, gender, and environmental concerns intheir design processes. These Principles offerdesigners guidance to better integrate featuresthat meet the needs of as many users as possible.PRINCIPLE SIX: Low Physical EffortThe design can be used efficiently andcomfortably and with a minimum of fatigue.Guidelines:6a. Allow user to maintain a neutral body position.6b. Use reasonable operating forces.6c. Minimize repetitive actions.6d. Minimize sustained physical effort.23

Appendix BSuggested letter height17016015014013012011010090807060504030Cap height in millimetres20100 2 4 6 8 10 20 30 40 50Sign distance in metresSuggested letter height as per viewing distance.Extracted with permission from University of New South Wales (n.d.)24Wayfi nding design guidelines

Appendix CWayfinding systems matrixThe following matrix provides a succinct summaryof wayfinding options for people who are blind orvision impaired in and around a building complex,typically a commercial building or institution suchas a university. The matrix details scales, spaces,paths and options. ‘Scale’ or ‘range’ refers to partof a journey within the overall wayfinding journey,rather than the usual definition of the distancebetween sequential wayfinding cues. The costsof wayfinding systems are not detailed in thematrix as they vary enormously depending on thetype of system used and the physical aspects ofthe built environment. Planning scales also varydepending on location. The choice of wayfindingoptions can also be influenced by factors such asweatherproofing equipment, power availability andthe system’s ability to withstand malicious damage.Inside buildings, factors such as the availablilityof power or computers, or perceived disruption toother building users may also affect the choice ofwayfinding options.The terms ‘pedestrians’ or ‘travellers’ used inthe matrix refers to passing foot traffic, buildingoccupants, visitors, staff or anyone accessing thebuilding on foot or with limited mobility. The matrixconsists of a description of the wayfinding system,how and where it may be applied and othercomments for each ‘scale’ of the built environment.The matrix refers to a number of different ‘scales’— neighbourhood, building precinct, buildingentrance, inside building and floor level.Note: Cross-references to reports in the matrixrefer to outcomes from the Cooperative ResearchCentre for Construction Innovation projectWayfinding in the built environment (Stage 1,Stages 2 and 3 — Final reports, 2004–06).These are available for download at http://www.construction-innovation.info/index.php?id=59(Stage 1) and http://www.construction-innovation.info/index.php?id=956 (Stages 2 and 3).1.0 Neighbourhoodscale2.0 Building precinctscale3.0 Building entrancescale4.0 Inside buildingscaleJourneys of, say,30–200 m for example,malls, arcades,‘pocket’ parks andurban open spaceJourneys of, say,30 m for example,forecourts, podiums,plazas and piazzasJourneys of, say, 5 mfor example, immediatevicinity journeys orentering a buildingentranceJourneys of, say,1–20 m for example,across lobbies,reception areas, liftlobbies, corridors andto information desks5.0 Floor-level scale Journeys of, say,1–20 m for example,corridors, offices, fireexits, classrooms,meeting rooms, toiletsand storage rooms25

1.0 Neighbourhood scaleJourneys of, say, 30–200 m, for example, malls, arcades, ‘pocket’ parks and urban open spaceWayfindingsystem1.1 Tactile groundsurfaceindicators(TGSIs)includingdirectionalindicatorsSee 3.1 of Stage1 Report1.2 DirectionalcompassSee 4.1 of Stage1 Report1.3 ObstaclelocatorSee 4.2 of Stage1 Report1.4 Enhanced orspecialist caneSee 4.3 of Stage1 Report1.5 PersonalDigitalAssistants(PDAs) andnote takersSee 4.5 of Stage1 ReportDescription Application CommentsA system of raiseddomes and stripesplaced in patterns onthe ground to providetactile information.The colour andluminance contrastof the TGSIs provideinformation to peoplewho are blind orvision impaired aboutdirection andpotential hazards.Hand-held aiddesigned to assistorientation andnavigation by peoplewho are blind orvision impaired.Hand-held navigationaid to helpvision-impairedpeople detectpotential obstacles.Relatively newnavigation aid orcane to assist peoplewho are blind orvision impaired avoidobstacles.Generally smallhand-held computersor portable electronicnote takers to storeand process spatialand other informationthat may assist inwayfinding.TGSIs provide informationabout changes in thedirection of the pathof travel and indicatepotential hazards such asplatform edges, stairs andoverhead obstacles. TGSIsassist negotiating difficultenvironments such asopen or busy spacesand finding specificlocations such as buildingentrances and exits.Usually used inconjunction with atraditional long caneor guide dog tonavigate about the builtenvironment at a broaderscale.Assists navigation aroundthe built environment byproviding feedback onpotential obstacles suchas trees, rubbish bins,chairs, tables, pot-plantsand A-frame signage.Used as an alternative toa traditional long cane, tonavigate about the builtenvironment, providingaural and tactile feedbackabout the position ofnearby obstacles.Can easily capture andplayback detailed audioand video informationabout locations or pathsbetween facilities that aperson who is blind orvision impaired maywish to record forfuture reference.Two types of TGSItiles — warningand directional— are used underAS1428.4. Localgovernments orvenue and buildingowners, as requiredby the BuildingCode of Australiaprovide TGSIs.Assists withnavigation ata broad urbanphysical scale.Assists withindependentwayfinding,movement andnavigation.Assists withindependentwayfinding,movement andnavigation.Assists with recalland independentwayfinding,movement andnavigation.26Wayfi nding design guidelines

Wayfindingsystem1.6 GlobalPositioningSystem (GPS)position locatorSee 4.4 and4.6 of Stage 1Report1.7 Talking digitalmap systemsSee 4.6 of Stage1 Report1.8 Tactile mapsystemsSee 4.7 of Stage1 ReportDescription Application CommentsBased on data frompublicly availableearth satellitesystems, an electronicreceiver thatcalculates positionsor locations to withinseveral metres. Mostsuitable in open-airlocations withoutinterference.A blend of a PDAand GPS informationto provide audibleinformation at thebroader urban scaleto a person who isvision impaired.Printed maps can beproduced in tactile orembossed form onspecialised paper toassist with wayfinding.Tactile maps canbe provideddirectly appropriateauthorities oraccessed viathe internet.Wayfinding systemsincorporating GPSinformation can providepedestrians with audio orvisual information aboutsurrounding locations ata broad scale. Combinedwith other software, theycan be used for locatingcurrent position andlandmarks such as majorbuildings, concert halls,churches, stadiums,transport interchanges,parks or lakes.Similar to PDAs and notetakers, but can use adigital map-base of GPScoordinates to find streetnames, intersections,addresses and majorlandmarks or features anduses speech applicationsto relay informationto the user.Braille or tactile raisedmaps outlining accessroutes to certain facilitiescan assist in planning andundertaking journeys.Pedestrians musthave a suitable GPSreceiver unit usedin conjunction withspecialist softwareplus electronicdata depictinglocal streets andlandmarks providedby a commercialdata supplier.Talking digitalmap systemsrequire a GPSreceiver unit usedin conjunction withspecialist softwareplus electronicdata coveringlocal streets andlandmarks for aparticular area.Any key facilitieslikely to beaccessed by a userwould need to beknown in advancewith maps thenproduced beforethe trip, unless theyare made availableat a venue.27

Wayfindingsystem1.9 Mobilephones andcommunicatorsSee 4.8 of Stage1 Report1.10 AccessiblepedestriansignalsSee 5.1 of Stage1 Report1.11 Press andlisten signs orpress-buttonaudiblesignageSee 5.2 of Stage1 ReportDescription Application CommentsSophisticated, yetwidely availableportable devicesthat receive andtransmit signals viacommercial mobiletelecommunicationnetworks.Infrastructureprovided primarilyat pedestriancrossings and streetintersections to assistusers determine whenit is safe to crossthe street.Fixed infrastructureinstalled at selectedlocations to providespoken informationabout that locationwhen the button ispressed.Because SIM cards aretracked and automatically‘located’ by the network,these devices areincreasingly being used toprovide location-specificinformation to users viathe 3G or ‘next-generation’mobile networks.Generally linked to trafficsignals, they are designedto provide recognisableaudio signals topedestrians in guidingthem across intersections.Able to provide specificaudio information abouta location (e.g. touristsite) and widely used toprovide public transportdeparture informationto travellers.Increasingly, thesedevices, withlong-life batterypower, can provideusers with a rangeof information aboutfacilities in an area;however, the usermust be a customerof a mobile phonenetwork to receivegeneral data andinformation.Fixed local andstate governmentinfrastructurefor pedestriancrossings andstreet intersections.People who areblind or visionimpaired may notrealise the ‘sign’is available unlessother means areused to draw theirattention to theavailability andlocation of the‘press andlisten’ sign.28Wayfi nding design guidelines

Wayfindingsystem1.12 Printed signage(location signs)featuringwords, orwords andsymbolsSee 2.3.2 ofStage 2–3Report1.13 Raised tactileand braillesignageSee 3.2 of Stage1 ReportDescription Application CommentsConventional fixedsignage of a concisenature featuringwords, or words andsymbols, to helpsighted and literatepedestrians confirmtheir location orindicate the generaldirection of otherdestinations.Specialised tactilesignage thatincorporates raisedlettering or graphicsor braille beneatheach line of theprinted signage.Usually constitutes atraditional printed locationboard accompaniedby arrows indicatingthe general direction ofspecific destinations forexample, toilets, lifts, taxisand bus stops, automaticteller machines,major facilities andparticular shops.Applications for thissystem are the sameas conventional printedsignage with the addedbenefit of assistingpeople who are blindor vision impaired toidentify their currentlocation and indicate thedirection of other possibledestinations.Not suitablefor people whoare blind (see‘raised tactile andbraille signage’).However, ifdesigned correctlyusing suitablefonts, coloursand backgroundcontrasts andwell-positioned,this system may besuitable for peoplewho are visionimpaired, as well aspeople with otherdisabilities. Usingsymbols ratherthan just wordscan assist bothilliterate and non-English-speakingpedestrians. Forexample, replace‘EXIT’ with therunning mansymbol on buildingexit signs.Must be used forpeople who areblind, but must becorrectly positionedand have optimumaccessibility,that is be easilyapproached andwithin comfortablereach, for peoplewho are visionimpaired or mobilityimpaired.29

Wayfindingsystem1.14 Remote(infrared)audiblesignage— motionactivatedSee 5.5.1 ofStage 1 Report1.15 Remote(infrared)audiblesignage —speaking signsSee 5.5.2 ofStage 1 ReportDescription Application CommentsInformation abouta location can beobtained at a distancerather than bytouching the sign.Has some similarityto a press-buttonsystem, except therecorded informationplayback is triggeredby any personpassing the sign,rather than by aparticular pedestrianfinding and pressingthe button.Information isprovided remotelyrather than bypressing a sign.Single or multipletransmitters areinstalled as buildinginfrastructure(usually abovehead-height) at keytravel decision points,while individualportable receivers(purchased or onloan from the venue)must be either wornor carried about thevenue by users.Useful at key traveldecision points or toprovide additionalinformation about theimmediate surroundingarea. Time-sensitivemessages can alsobe replayed by acentralised system.Messages are triggeredby the user’s handheld, orworn, device and relayedto them via a receiver orspeakers. Information canbe provided from differentdirections as the triggerdevice is slowly movedaround. Messages canbe tailored to the specificlocation and consideredas the audio equivalent ofa printed directional sign.Supplement tobuilding locationalsignage; however,everyone nearbymay hear the(repeated) briefinformation as allpassing pedestrianswill trigger themessage.Orientation issuesmust be consideredin the design toensure the user islocated and alignedappropriately forthe message beingdelivered.Can indicate andconfirm whichdirection a visitorshould travel into find variousfacilities. Usefulin train and busstations, airporthalls, malls andsimilar largebuilding complexes.This system maybe used at, forexample, outdoorbus terminals whentransport vehicleshave transmittersfitted, but it is notusually used in acompletely openspace where thelocation of keyfacilities are lesswell defined.30Wayfi nding design guidelines

Wayfindingsystem1.16 RemoteradiofrequencyaudiblesignageSee 5.6 of Stage1 Report1.17 Movingilluminatedsignage —single andmulti-lineSee 3.4.4 ofStage 2–3ReportDescription Application CommentsOutdoors systemdesigned to providevarying audibleinformation totravellers. Messagesare customised to theindividual locationand have similar briefcontent to a printeddirectional sign.Moving (rolling) LEDsignage consisting ofone or several lines oftext to provide moreinformation about thelocation or providedirections to anearby buildingor destination.The user’s handheld, orworn, device triggers thesign and information isthen wirelessly relayed viaa receiver and earpiece orspeakers. Informationcan be provided indifferent languages.Similar function as aprinted location board, butwith flexibility to provideinformation beyond staticlocation signage forpeople who arevision impaired.Useful in outdoorsettings to confirmthe direction oftravel for variouskey facilities. Lackof a commontrigger device withinteroperabilitybetween alternativesystems is likely toimpede progresstowards widespreadadoption.Must be wellpositioned forpeople who arevision impaired, aswell as people withother disabilities,and suitablefonts, colourand backgroundcontrast must beused. Not suitablefor people who areblind or who readtactually.31

Wayfindingsystem1.18 Enhancedlocation maps(raised tactileand braille)See 2.3.2 ofStage 2–3Report1.19 Trail betweenone locationand anotherSee auditchecklist1.20 On-line digitalinformationand mapsSee 5.7 of Stage1 ReportDescription Application CommentsSimplified andscaled location mapincorporating raisedbuilding outlines,raised lettering orbraille beneath, orwithin, each area todesignate the nameor purpose of thatarea on the map.Series of easilyrecognisablepathwayscharacterised bydirectional tiles,handrails,stepping-stonesor a distinctive trailfor example, usingparticular plants orwater features.Computer-basedsystems designedto provide detailedspatial and locationinformation to users.The small-scale outlinesof buildings or corridorscan be traced by touchby people who are blindor vision impaired tohelp identify their currentlocation within the contextof the surrounding area,while other travellers mayalso use the map in theusual way.People who are blind orvision impaired often usea series of discerniblevertical surfaces to‘shoreline’ along by usinga long cane, but clearlymarked and distinctivepathways or handrails canprovide other options forwayfinding acrossopen areas.Detailed informationgenerated from userqueries on a spatialdatabase. This systemneeds to be used beforethe journey.Must bewell-positionedand accessibleand within reachfor people whoare blind or visionimpaired or peoplewho are mobilityimpaired. However,some travellerscan have difficultyinterpretingmaps and mayprefer aural orprinted directions.Enhanced maps,similar to signagethat uses symbols,can be valuablefor illiterate or non-English speakingtravellers.A ‘trail’ should bedesigned to lead atraveller from onekey destination toanother relativelyclose destination.This area ischanging rapidlywith new advancesin mobile internettechnology. See‘mobiles andcommunicators’.32Wayfi nding design guidelines

Wayfindingsystem1.21 ComputerdirectoryinformationsystemSee 3.4.5 ofStage 2–3Report1.22 Talking liftsSee 3.4.6 ofStage 2–3ReportDescription Application CommentsUsually locatedindoors, this type ofinfrastructure canprovide visitors withsimple screen-basedor audio directions toassist them find keyfacilities nearby. In theabsence of a staffedreception area ordesk, it provides‘do-it-yourself’assistance to anyvisitors.A speaker systemthat provides prerecordedmessagesto lift occupantsand is triggeredautomaticallywhen the lift arrivesat a floor.With large fonts or audiooutputs via speakers, thissystem should provideboth limited or detailedlistings of public facilitiessuch as meeting areasor toilets and provideinstructions on how tolocate them. This systemis more useful withinan individual buildingcomplex.Audio in lift carsannounces the floorlevel to travellers as thelift arrives and doorsautomatically open at anyfloor level.May be required inmulti-storey situationsbut not appropriate foroutdoor open spaces.Unless networked,each workstationmust be individuallyupdated withinformation specificto that location,and if making useof a keyboard ormouse, the systemshould be robustand sturdy, butsimple to use. Sincetactile output is notavailable from thesesystems, auraldirections wouldassist people whoare vision impaired,but not peoplewho are hearingimpaired.Audio systemis also usefulto broadcast orreinforce warningmessages thattravellers should notuse the lifts in theevent of fire or othersituations as setout in the building’semergencyevacuationprocedures.33

Wayfindingsystem1.23 ‘Kiosk’ (ornetwork) oftouch-screenor audio-basedcomputersystemsSee 2.4 of Stage2–3 ReportDescription Application CommentsTypically housed ina small kiosk, thiscomputer-basedsystem, with largeTV-type screen, canprovide informationand directions forspecific locationsin the vicinity.The system mayincorporate largescreen fonts thatassist people whoare vision impairedor can produceaudio through kioskspeakers or wirelesslyto an individualreceiving device.An enhancement ofthe computer directorysystems, it allowspedestrians to ask forand receive directions tospecific locations for aparticular destination orservice. Should provideappropriate informationand directions for specificlocations in the vicinitysuch as bus or train stops,public toilets, theatres,restaurants and eventimetable andticket information.Useful in localgovernmentinfrastructure,for example ascommissionedby MelbourneCity Council foriHubs, or could beprovided by ownersof commercialvenues. Orientationissues must beconsidered in thedesign to ensurethe user is locatedand alignedappropriately forthe message beingdelivered. Anyscreens should beat an appropriateheight for use bypeople who arevision impaired orpeople who aremobility impaired.34Wayfi nding design guidelines

2.0 Building precinct scaleRange of, say, 30 m, for example, building forecourts, podiums, plazas and piazzasWayfindingsystem2.1 Tactile groundsurfaceindicators(TGSIs)includingdirectionalindicatorsSee 3.1 of Stage1 Report2.2 DirectionalcompassSee 4.1 of Stage1 Report2.3 ObstaclelocatorSee 4.2 of Stage1 Report2.4 Enhanced orspecialist caneSee 4.3 of Stage1 Report2.5 PersonalDigitalAssistants(PDAs) andnote takersSee 4.5 of Stage1 Report2.6 GlobalPositioningSystem (GPS)position locatorSee 4.4 and4.6 of Stage 1ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.1 above.See 1.2 above.See 1.3 above.See 1.4 above.See 1.5 above.See 1.6 aboveMost suitable inopen-air locationswithout interference.Combined with othersoftware, can be usedfor locating currentposition and otherlandmarks.Providing informationand locations of keylandmarks such as majorbuildings, concert halls,churches, stadiums,transport interchanges, aswell as parks and lakes.Pedestrians musthave a suitable GPSreceiver unit, usedin conjunction withspecialist softwareplus electronicdata depictinglocal streets andlandmarks forthat area.35

Wayfindingsystem2.7 Talking digitalmap systemsSee 4.6 of Stage1 Report2.8 Tactile mapsystemsSee 4.7 of Stage1 Report2.9 Mobilephones andcommunicatorsSee 4.8 of Stage1 Report2.10 AccessiblepedestriansignalsSee 5.1 of Stage1 Report2.11 Press andlisten signs orpress-buttonaudiblesignageSee 5.2 of Stage1 ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.7 above.See 1.8 above.See 1.9 above.See 1.10 above.See 1.11 above.Starting to providelocation-specificinformation to users viathe ‘next-generation’ or3G mobile networks, butservice is aimed at themajority of users ratherthan adapted for nicheusers such as peoplewho are blind orvision impaired.If signs are networked,then time-specificmessages (or ‘live’)information such astimetable details can bereplayed when the buttonis pushed.Tactile maps ofspecific venuesshould be madeavailable bythe venue’smanagement.Users must bea customer ofa mobile phonenetwork to receiveinformation.System acts asa supplement tolocational signage.However, everyonenear the sign hearsthe brief informationrepeated aboutthat location.36Wayfi nding design guidelines

Wayfindingsystem2.12 Printed signage(location signs)featuringwords, orwords andsymbolsSee 2.3.2 ofStage 2–3Report2.13 Raised tactileand braillesignageSee 3.2 of Stage1 Report2.14 Remote(infrared)audiblesignage— motionactivatedSee 5.5.1 ofStage 1 Report2.15 Remote(infrared)audiblesignage —speaking signsSee 5.5.2 ofStage 1 Report2.16 RemoteradiofrequencyaudiblesignageSee 5.6 of Stage1 ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.12 above.See 1.13 above.See 1.14 above.See 1.15 above.See 1.16 above.Allows pedestriansto confirm theirlocation orindicates thegeneral directionof other possibledestinations. Notsuitable for peoplewho are blind orvision impairedbecause raisedtactile and braillesignage must beused to assistthese pedestrians.37

Wayfindingsystem2.17 Movingilluminatedsignagesingle andmulti-lineSee 3.4.4 ofStage 2–3Report2.18 Enhancedlocation maps(raised tactileand braille)See 2.3.2 ofStage 2–3Report2.19 Trail acrossforecourt orplazaSee auditchecklist2.20 On-line digitalinformationand mapsSee 5.7 of Stage1 Report2.21 ComputerdirectoryinformationsystemSee 3.4.5 ofStage 2–3Report2.22 Talking liftsSee 3.4.6 ofStage 2–3ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.17 above.See 1.18 above.See 1.19 above.See 1.20 above.See 1.21 above.See 1.22 above.Clearly marked anddistinctive pathways orhandrails can provideoptions for wayfindingacross open areas.Can act as a directoryboard and supplementsignage in the area.A ‘trail’ should bedesigned to ‘lead’ atraveller across theopen space fromone key destinationto another relativelyclose destination.Acts as anunattendedinformation desk.However, it cannotbe read by touchingthe board or screenso it is not suitablefor people whoare blind or whoread tactually.38Wayfi nding design guidelines

Wayfindingsystem2.23 ‘Kiosk’ (ornetwork) oftouch-screenor audio-basedcomputersystemsSee 2.4 of Stage2–3 ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.23 above.Acts as a directoryboard for the vicinity, butcan supply additionalinformation aboutparticular locationson enquiry.Can be used inlocal governmentor commercialinfrastructurethat acts asan unattendedinformation desk.Orientation issuesmust be consideredin the design toensure the user islocated and alignedappropriatelyfor the messagebeing delivered.39

3.0 Building entrance scaleRange of 5 m, for example, the immediate vicinity and building entrancesWayfindingsystem3.1 Tactile groundsurfaceindicators(TGSIs)includingdirectionalindicatorsSee 3.1 of Stage1 Report3.2 ObstaclelocatorSee 4.2 of Stage1 Report3.3 Enhanced orspecialist caneSee 4.3 of Stage1 Report3.4 PersonalDigitalAssistants(PDAs) andnote takersSee 4.5 of Stage1 Report3.5 Tactile mapsystemsSee 4.7 of Stage1 Report3.6 Press andlisten signs orpress-buttonaudiblesignageSee 5.2 of Stage1 ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.1 above.See 1.3 above.See 1.4 above.See 1.5 above.See 1.8 above.See 1.11 above.Directional indicators canassist people who areblind or vision impairedto find their way unaidedfrom the street to thebuilding entrance whereother shorelines donot exist.When found and pressed,external audible signannounces address,building name andmajor tenant.Other indicators orforms of signageare needed toalert people whoare blind or visionimpaired to theavailability andspecific location ofthe press andlisten sign.40Wayfi nding design guidelines

Wayfindingsystem3.7 Printed signage(location signs)featuringwords, orwords andsymbolsSee 2.3.2 ofStage 2–3Report3.8 Raised tactileand braillesignageSee 3.2 of Stage1 Report3.9 HandrailsystemsSee 3.4.1 ofStage 2–3Report3.10 Remote(infrared)audiblesignage— motionactivatedSee 5.5.1 ofStage 1 ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.12 above.See 1.13 above.Wooden or metalinfrastructureprovided to allowusers to follow thehandrail and find theirway from one locationto another relativelyclose location alongpaths, corridors oracross open space.See 1.14 above.Directory board providinglistings of building tenantsand the general directionof many significantamenities and services.Use of symbols ratherthan just words can assistilliterate andnon-English-speakingpedestrians, for example← and → rather than‘left and right’.As noted in 1.13, butenhanced with tactile aidsfor people who are blindor vision impaired.Fixed to corridor andlobby walls to assistpeople who are blind,vision impaired or havelimited mobility to findtheir way unaided fromone location to anotherrelatively close location.External audible signannounces address,building name or majortenants when triggered.Must be wellpositioned andsuitable for peoplewho are visionimpaired as well aspeople with otherdisabilities. Suitablefonts, colourand backgroundcontrast must beused. Not suitablefor people whoare blind or visionimpaired. Raisedtactile and braillesignage must beused to assist thesepedestrians.Separate indicationof the actualdirection of thebuilding entranceor the street maybe necessary toconfirm the user istravelling in the rightdirection.Additional tobuilding locationalsignage but signmay be triggeredby passingpedestrians.41

Wayfindingsystem3.11 Remote(infrared)audiblesignage —speaking signsSee 5.5.2 ofStage 1 Report3.12 RemoteRadiofrequencyAudibleSignageSee 5.6 of Stage1 Report3.13 Movingilluminatedsignagesingle andmulti-lineSee 3.4.4 ofStage 2–3Report3.14 Enhancedlocation maps(raised tactile,braille)See 2.3.2 ofStage 2–3ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.15 above.Audio equivalent oflocation sign.See 1.16 above.See 1.17 above.See 1.18 above.When any transmitteris ‘triggered’ by asignal received from anearby user’s device,pre-recorded audioinformation such asthe building name or awelcome message isthen broadcast wirelesslyby the transmitter to thatuser’s receiver.As noted in 1.17 but withmore detail providedfor location signs anddirectory boards.Map of raised outlines ofentrance or lobby can betraced by touch by peoplewho are blind or visionimpaired to assist theirorientation and plan theirjourney.Distinct informationcan be provided fordifferent locationsbut is audible onlyvia an individualreceiver held, orworn, by the user.Users may needdifferent types ofdevices to receiveinformation withindifferent buildingcomplexes.Must be wellpositioned andsuitable for peoplewho are visionimpaired as well aspeople with otherdisabilities. Suitablefonts, colourand backgroundcontrast must beused. Not suitablefor people whoare blind.Limited additionalinformation inraised letteringor braille mayfurther assist thetraveller to locatetheir intendeddestination.42Wayfi nding design guidelines

Wayfindingsystem3.15 Trail betweenforecourtand streetand buildingentranceSee auditchecklist3.16 On-line digitalinformationand mapsSee 5.7 of Stage1 Report3.17 ComputerdirectoryinformationsystemSee 3.4.5 ofStage 2–3Report3.18 ‘Kiosk’ (ornetwork) oftouch-screenor audio-basedcomputersystemsSee 2.4 of Stage2–3 ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.19 above.See 1.20 above.See 1.21 above.See 1.23 above.Detailed information suchas building floor planshave to be obtained orproduced in appropriateform before the journey.System can provideboth limited and detailedlistings of building tenantsand public facilities.Allows pedestriansto obtain appropriateinformation and directionsfor specific buildings,such as listings ofbuilding tenants andpublic facilities.This area ischanging rapidlywith new advancesin mobile internettechnology. Seemobiles andcommunicators.Suitable forunattendedor ‘faceless’receptions.Accessibilityoptions for softwarecan enhance thecontrast, coloursand size of fontsfor on-screeninformation. Mayprovide audibleprompts. Notsuitable for peoplewho rely ontactual reading.Could be providedby owners ofindividual buildingsor venues, or aslocal governmentinfrastructure.Orientation issuesmust be consideredin the design toensure the user islocated and alignedappropriately for themessagebeing delivered.43

4.0 Inside building scaleRange of, say, 1–20 m, for example, lobbies, reception area, lift lobbies, corridors and informationdesksWayfindingsystem4.1 Tactile groundsurfaceindicators(TGSIs)includingdirectionalindicatorsSee 3.1 of Stage1 Report4.2 ObstaclelocatorSee 4.2 of Stage1 Report4.3 Enhanced orspecialist caneSee 4.3 of Stage1 Report4.4 PersonalDigitalAssistants(PDAs) andnote takersSee 4.5 of Stage1 Report4.5 Tactile mapsystemsSee 4.7 of Stage1 ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.1 above.See 1.3 above.See 1.4 above.See 1.5 above.See 1.8 above.Braille, tactile or raisedmaps describing accessto certain facilities atparticular venues. Thesemaps could be madeavailable to those who caninterpret them toassist in planningand subsequentlyundertaking travel.Any key facilitieslikely to beaccessed by a userwould need to beknown in advanceand maps thenproduced, unlessthey are madeavailable at venues.44Wayfi nding design guidelines

Wayfindingsystem4.6 Mobilephones andcommunicatorsSee 4.8 of Stage1 Report4.7 Press andlisten signs orpress-buttonaudiblesignageSee 5.2 of Stage1 Report4.8 Printed signage(location signs,directoryboards, etc.)See 2.3.2 ofStage 2–3Report4.9 Raised tactileand braillesignageSee 3.2 of Stage1 Report4.10 Line-followingguidesSee 5.3 of Stage1 ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.9 above.See 1.11 above.See 1.12 above.See 1.13 above.Robotic-type devicesare being developedthat will followfixed paths withina building.Combining informationabout layouts with asensor network throughoutthe building. Trial systems,based on adapted phonesor communicators, havebeen used overseas toassist wayfindingwithin buildings.Provided in a lift lobby orbuilding entrance. Whenpressed, the audible signannounces informationabout the nearby areasuch as location of keyfacilities on the floor.Directory board providinglistings of the servicesand tenants on each floorlevel, plus the generaldirection of many keyamenities and services.Within suitably fitted-outbuildings, in the future,these devices may assistin guiding people who areblind or vision impaired.Once thetechnology isfurther developed,proven andcost-effectivelyaccessible, it maybecome a morewidespread option.A development withreal potential, butnot yet ready forwidespread use.Other indicators areneeded to makesure people whoare vision impairedknow the specificlocation of thepress andlisten sign.Should be wellpositioned anddesigned for peoplewho are visionimpaired, but arenot suitable forpeople who areblind. Raised tactileand braille signagemust be used toassist these visitors.These and othergeneral types ofrobotic ‘guides’are still underdevelopment.45

Wayfindingsystem4.11 DirectionalsoundevacuationSee 5.4 of Stage1 Report4.12 HandrailsystemSee 3.4.1 ofStage 2–3Report4.13 Remote(infrared)audiblesignage— motionactivatedSee 5.5.1 ofStage 1 Report4.14 Remote(infrared)audiblesignagespeaking signsSee 5.5.2 ofStage 1 ReportDescription Application CommentsBuilding infrastructureinstalled to alertoccupants in anemergency and helpguide them, usingsound, towardsan exit during anevacuation.See 3.9 above.See 1.14 above.See 1.15 above.In an emergency,distinctive sound patternswith a directionalemphasis are emittedalong corridors to assistin guiding sighted andpeople who are blind orvision impaired towardsan exit.Fixed to corridor andlobby walls to assistpeople who are blind,vision impaired or mobilityimpaired find their wayunaided from one locationto another relativelyclose location.When triggered by nearbymovement, the audiblesigns plays pre-recordedmessages, listing tenantsand the location ofkey facilities.Pre-recorded audioinformation such as thelocation of lifts, toilets andstaffed reception desksis broadcast wirelesslyby transmitter to auser’s receiving device.Different message maybe received from differentdirections allowing theuser to discreetly choosethe direction they want totravel in.Most appropriatefor assisting egressfrom a buildingin an emergency,but not for generalwayfinding aroundand within abuilding complexunder normalconditions. Notsuitable for peoplewho are hearingimpaired.Supplementarytactile, audible orbraille signage maybe necessary tohelp confirm thatthe user istravelling in theright direction.Supplement tobuilding locationand directory boardsignage designedto assist peoplewho are visionimpaired, but notpeople who arehearing impaired.Distinct informationcan be provided fordifferent locationsbut it is audible onlyvia an individualworn, or hand-held,receiver. Currently,users may needalternative types ofdevices to receiveinformation withindifferent buildingcomplexes.46Wayfi nding design guidelines

Wayfindingsystem4.15 Remote radiofrequencyaudiblesignageSee 5.6 of Stage1 Report4.16 Movingilluminatedsignagesingle andmulti-lineSee 3.4.4 ofStage 2–3Report4.17 Enhancedlocation maps(raised tactileand braille)See 2.3.2 ofStage 2–3Report4.18 Trail betweenbuildingentrance andmain tenantdirectory boardSee auditchecklist4.19 On-line digitalinformationand mapsSee 5.7 of Stage1 ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.16 above.See 1.17 above.See 1.18 above.See 1.19 above.See 1.20 above.Generally used in outdoorsettings.Providing broad listings ofthe services and tenantson each floor level, plusthe general direction ofkey amenities.Map using raised outlinesto highlight lift locationsand other key facilitiesand the paths betweenthem. Map and text canbe traced by touch bypeople who are visionimpairedto assist theirorientation and plantheir journey.Pathways leading to, andfrom, key facilities such asreception, lift lobbies andtoilets can be highlightedthrough contrastingtextures and colours onwall and floor coverings.Detailed information suchas building floor planshave to be obtained orproduced beforethe journey.Not suitable forpeople whoare blind.Accompanying textin raised letteringor braille mayfurther assist theuser to locate theirdestination andhelp plan their path.Designed to helppeople who arevision impairedlocate key facilitiesunaided — througharchitecturalfeatures andinterior finishes.The availability oftactile maps atindividual venuesmay eliminate theneed to downloaddirectional andwayfindinginformation beforeattending a venue.47

Wayfindingsystem4.20 ComputerdirectoryinformationsystemSee 3.4.5 ofStage 2–3Report4.21 Talking liftsSee 3.4.6 ofStage 2–3Report4.22 ‘Kiosk’ (ornetwork) oftouch-screenor audio-basedcomputersystemsSee 2.4 ofStage 2–3ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.21 above.See 1.22 above.See 1.23 above.System should provideindividual listings ofbuilding tenants, publicfacilities and theirlocations withinthe building.Allows pedestriansto obtain appropriateinformation and directionsfor specific buildings,such as listings ofbuilding tenants andpublic facilities.Suitable forunattendedor ‘faceless’receptions e.g.‘Take lift to Level 3then turn left andproceed 20 metresdirectly alongcorridor. Offices areon your right’.Useful to reinforcewarning messagesthat travellersshould not uselifts in the eventof fire or in othersituations as setout in the building’semergencyevacuationprocedures.Could be providedby owners ofindividual buildingsor venues, orprovided as localgovernmentinfrastructure.Users’ spatialorientation mustbe considered toensure they arelocated and alignedappropriately for themessagebeing relayed.48Wayfi nding design guidelines

5.0 Floor-level scaleRange of, say, 1–20 m for example, corridors, offices, classrooms, meeting rooms, toilets, fire exits andstorage roomsWayfindingsystem5.1 Tactile groundsurfaceindicators(TGSIs),includingdirectionalindicatorsSee 3.1 of Stage1 Report5.2 ObstaclelocatorSee 4.2 of Stage1 Report5.3 Enhanced orspecialist caneSee 4.3 of Stage1 Report5.4 PersonalDigitalAssistants(PDAs) andnote takersSee 4.5 of Stage1 Report5.5 Tactile mapsystemsSee 4.7 of Stage1 Report5.6 Mobilephones andcommunicatorsSee 4.8 of Stage1 ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.1 above.See 1.3 above.See 1.4 above.See 1.5 above.See 1.8 above.See 1.9 above.Braille or tactile andraised maps outlining keyfacilities at an individualfloor level may assistpeople who are visionimpaired, but otheroptions seem moreappropriate at this scale.Other options appearmore appropriate atthis scale.49

Wayfindingsystem5.7 Press andlisten signs/press-buttonaudiblesignageSee 5.2 of Stage1 Report5.8 Printed signage(location signs,directoryboards, etc.)featuring wordsor words andsymbolsSee 2.3.2 ofStage 2–3Report5.9 Raised tactileand braillesignageSee 3.2 of Stage1 Report5.10 Line-followingguidesSee 5.3 of Stage1 Report5.11 DirectionalsoundevacuationSee 5.4 of Stage1 Report5.12 HandrailsystemsSee 3.4.1 ofStage 2–3ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.11 above.See 1.12 above.See 1.13 above.See 4.10 above.See 4.11.See 3.9 above.Provided in a lift lobby orbuilding entrance. Whenpressed, the audible signannounces informationabout the nearby areasuch as location of keyfacilities on the floor.Directory board providinglistings of the servicesand tenants on each floorlevel, plus the generaldirection of many keyamenities and services.Other indicators areneeded to makesure people whoare vision impairedknow the specificlocation of thepress andlisten sign.Should be wellpositioned anddesigned forpedestrians withlow vision, but notsuitable for peoplewho are blind orvision impaired.Raised tactile andbraille signage mustbe used to assistthese travellers.Still in development.50Wayfi nding design guidelines

Wayfindingsystem5.13 Remote(infrared)audiblesignage— motionactivatedSee 5.5.1 ofStage 1 Report5.14 Remote(infrared)audiblesignage —speaking signsSee 5.5.2 ofStage 1 Report5.15 RemoteradiofrequencyaudiblesignageSee 5.6 of Stage1 Report5.16 Movingilluminatedsignage —single andmulti-lineSee 3.4.4 ofStage 2–3Report5.17 Enhancedlocation maps(raised tactileand braillesignage)See 2.3.2 ofStage 2–3ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.14 above.See 1.15 above.See 1.16 above.See 1.17 above.See 1.18 above.Plays pre-recordedmessages throughspeakers, listing servicesand the location of keyfacilities located onthe floor.Normally located at traveldecision points (e.g. lobbyor corridor intersections),these signs wirelesslytransmit pre-recordedaudio, for example, thelocation of lifts, directionof toilets and staffedreception desks.Generally used in outdoorsettings.Providing broad listings ofthe services and tenantson each floor level, plusthe general direction ofkey amenities.Map using raised outlinesto highlight pathwaysbetween key facilities.Map and text can betraced by touch by peoplewho are vision impaired.Triggered by nearbymovement, thesesigns are designedto assist peoplewho are visionimpaired, but notpeople who arehearing impaired.Messages areaudible only via anindividual receiverworn or held bythe user. Messagescan be transmittedand received fromdifferent locationsallowing the userto decide theirdirection of travel.Not suitable toassist people whoare blind.Adding text inraised lettering orbraille on the mapmay further assistusers to locate theirdestination andplan their path.51

Wayfindingsystem5.18 Trails betweenkey locationssuch asreception, liftlobby, meetingrooms ortenant officesSee auditchecklist5.19 On-line digitalinformationand mapsSee 5.7 of Stage1 Report5.20 ComputerdirectoryinformationsystemSee 3.4.5 ofStage 2–3Report5.21 Talking liftsSee 3.4.6 ofStage 2–3Report5.22 ‘Kiosk’ (ornetwork) oftouch-screenor audio-basedcomputersystemsSee 2.4 of Stage2–3 ReportDescription Application CommentsSee 1.19 above.See 1.20 above.See 1.21 above.See 1.22 above.See 1.23 above.Pathways leading to andfrom crucial facilitiessuch as reception, liftlobbies and toilets canbe highlighted throughemploying Principles ofUniversal Design.Detailed information suchas building floor planshave to be obtained orproduced in appropriateform before the journeyis undertaken.System should provideindividual listings oftenants and publicfacilities located onthe floor.Systems should allowpedestrians to obtainappropriate informationand directions for specificfloor levels, such aslistings of tenants as wellas public facilities andconveniences locatedon the floor.Designed to helpvision-impairedpedestrians tolocate keyamenities unaided.The availability oftactile maps atindividual venuesmay eliminate theneed to downloaddirectional andwayfindinginformation beforeattending a venue.Suitable forreception areas notalways attendedby staff. Notappropriate forpeople who relyon reading bytactual means.May be providedby owners ofindividual buildingsor venues. Users’spatial orientationmust be consideredto ensure they arelocated and alignedappropriately forthe messagebeing relayed.52Wayfi nding design guidelines

Cooperative Research Centrefor Construction Innovation9th Floor, L Block, QUT Gardens Point2 George Street, Brisbane QLD 4000 AustraliaTelephone: (07) 3138 9291Email: enquiries@construction-innovation.infoWeb: www.construction-innovation.infoWayfinding designguidelinesProject partnersGovernmentWayfinding system auditAudible communication is undertaken through verbal instructions via PA systems,talking signs, infrared signs and water fountains. These prompts may assist peoplewith perceptual or cognitive impairments.Genera ly, a l audible communication must comply with the BCA Section D Accessand Egress Requirements, part D3.7: Hearing augmentation and with AS1428.1,part 1: General requirements for access — New building work, clause 16: HearingAugmentation Listening Systems.The BCA defines ‘hearing augmentation’ as an inbuilt amplification system, otherthan one used for emergency warning purposes only. Where hearing augmentationis required, a listening system to assist people who are hearing impaired shouldalso be available. A sign indicating that an assistive hearing device is available mustbe provided in accordance with the requirements for the international symbol fordeafness at the main doors to the enclosed space. Where the listening system doesnot cover the total area of the enclosed space, the boundaries of the area must alsobe designated.Emergency warning and intercommunication systems must also comply whereapplicable, with AS1670.4 Fire detection, warning, control and intercom systems —System design, insta lation and commissioning, part 4: Sound systems and intercomsystems for emergency purposes and AS4428.4 Fire detection, warning, control andintercom systems — Control and indicating equipment, part 4: Intercommunicationsystems for emergency purposes.1. Are audible tactile push-bu tons used a the pedestrian crossings near the building orspace?Yes Unsatisfactory 1 2 3 4 5 Excelent NoComment: ………………………………………………………………………… .………………………………………………………………………………………… .………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………………… .2. Are information desks staffed by helpful a tendants who are familiar with the facilitylayout?Yes Unsatisfactory 1 2 3 4 5 Excelent NoComment: ………………………………………………………………………… .………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………………………………………………………………………… .…………………………………………………………………………………………..Wayfinding system audit3. Are there information self-help phones at una tended information desks?Yes Unsatisfactory 1 2 3 4 5 Excelent NoComment: ………………………………………………………………………… . .………………………………………………………………………………………… .………………………………………………………………………………………… .………………………………………………………………………………………… .………………………………………………………………………………………… .4. Do information desk staff use standardised names for a l buildings and services in their verbalcommunications?Yes Unsatisfactory 1 2 3 4 5 Excelent NoComment: ………………………………………………………………………….. ..………………………………………………………………………………………… .………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………………….5. Do a l lifts have audible output?Yes Unsatisfactory 1 2 3 4 5 Excellent NoComment: …………………………………………………………………………. .………………………………………………………………………………………… .………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………………… .………………………………………………………………………………………….Current AS1735.12 Lifts, escalators and moving walks part 12: Facilities for persons with disabilities, section 8:Information, particularly clause 8.1: Automatic Audible Information and clause 8.5: Indication of Travel Direction.6. Is the audible output clear and sufficiently loud?Yes Unsatisfactory 1 2 3 4 5 Excelent NoComment: ………………………………………………………………………… .………………………………………………………………………………………… .…………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………………… .3534ResearchWayfinding design guidelines has been developed to usein partnership with the other project publication, Wayfindingsystem audit, shown above.November 2007Established andsupported underthe AustralianGovernment’sCooperativeResearch CentresProgramISBN 978-0-9804262-9-8