What to Pay Attention to When Implementing Wayfinding in Hotels?
15/10/2024Internal signage comes in various forms, from wayfinding and identification signs to regulatory and branding elements, each serving a crucial role in guiding people through a space efficiently.
However, businesses often overlook key aspects such as consistency, accessibility, and strategic placement. Poorly designed or improperly installed signage can lead to confusion, inefficiency, and even non-compliance with safety regulations. Hiring a signage expert ensures that every element is thoughtfully planned and executed, considering factors like user experience, legal requirements, and brand integration. A professional approach not only enhances navigation but also strengthens a company’s identity and creates a more inclusive and functional environment.
Internal signage in a hotel or hospitality environment can be categorized into several types based on their purpose and function. Below is a detailed breakdown of **internal signage by type**, along with examples and design considerations for each.
1. Directional Signage
Purpose:
Guide guests to key areas within the hotel.
Examples:
- "Reception ➔"
- "Restrooms ➔"
- "Elevators ➔"
- "Restaurant ➔"
- "Pool ➔"
Design Considerations:
- Use arrows or directional symbols.
- Place at decision points (e.g., hallway intersections, near elevators).
- Ensure consistency in design and placement.
2. Informational Signage
Purpose:
Provide details about services, amenities, or policies.
Examples:
- "Breakfast Hours: 7 AM - 10 AM"
- "Pool Hours: 8 AM - 8 PM"
- "Wi-Fi Password: [Password]"
- "Check-Out Time: 11 AM"
Design Considerations:
- Use clear, concise language.
- Include icons or visuals for quick understanding.
- Place in high-traffic areas (e.g., lobby, elevators).
3. Identification Signage
Purpose:
Label specific rooms or areas.
Examples:
- "Room 205"
- "Conference Room A"
- "Spa Entrance"
- "Fitness Center"
Design Considerations:
- Use large, bold text for room numbers.
- Match the hotel’s aesthetic (e.g., modern, rustic).
- Ensure visibility from a distance.
4. Safety and Regulatory Signage**
Purpose:
Ensure compliance with safety regulations and provide emergency information.
Examples:
- "Fire Exit ➔"
- "Emergency Assembly Point"
- "No Smoking"
- "Wet Floor"
- "First Aid Kit ➔"
Design Considerations:
- Use universally recognized symbols (e.g., red for fire exits).
- Ensure signs are illuminated or glow-in-the-dark for low-light conditions.
- Follow local safety codes and regulations.
5. Restroom Signage
Purpose:
Identify restroom locations and ensure accessibility.
Examples:
- "Men"
- "Women"
- "Unisex"
- "Accessible Restroom"
Design Considerations:
- Use universal symbols (e.g., male/female icons).
- Include Braille for visually impaired guests.
- Ensure clear visibility from a distance.
6. Digital Signage
Purpose:
Provide dynamic, real-time information.
Examples:
- Interactive kiosks in the lobby.
- Digital displays showing event schedules, promotions, or weather.
- Wayfinding apps integrated with the hotel’s system.
Design Considerations:
- Use high-resolution screens.
- Ensure content is updated regularly.
- Keep the interface user-friendly and intuitive.
7. Room Number Signage
Purpose:
Help guests locate their rooms.
Examples:
- "Room 301"
- "Suite 502"
Design Considerations:
- Use large, easy-to-read numbers.
- Match the room’s aesthetic (e.g., modern, classic).
- Place at eye level on doors or adjacent walls.
8. Elevator and Staircase Signage
Purpose:
Guide guests to floors and key areas.
Examples:
- "Elevator to Lobby, Pool, Restaurant"
- "Stairs to Floors 1-3"
Design Considerations:
- Include floor directories.
- Use clear directional arrows.
- Ensure signs are visible from a distance.
9. Accessibility Signage
Purpose:
Assist guests with disabilities.
Examples:
- "Accessible Entrance ➔"
- "Elevator with Braille Buttons"
- "Wheelchair-Accessible Restroom"
Design Considerations:
- Follow ADA or local accessibility guidelines.
- Use tactile elements (e.g., raised text, Braille).
- Ensure signs are placed at appropriate heights.
10. Promotional Signage
Purpose:
Highlight hotel services, events, or offers.
Examples:
- "Enjoy 20% Off at Our Spa!"
- "Join Us for Happy Hour: 5 PM - 7 PM"
- "Book a City Tour at the Concierge Desk"
Design Considerations:
- Use eye-catching visuals and colors.
- Keep text concise and engaging.
- Place in high-traffic areas (e.g., lobby, elevators).
11. Warning and Caution Signage
Purpose:
Alert guests to potential hazards.
Examples:
- "Caution: Wet Floor"
- "Construction Zone: Please Use Alternate Route"
- "Do Not Enter: Authorized Personnel Only"
Design Considerations:
- Use bold, high-contrast colors (e.g., yellow and black).
- Include universally recognized symbols.
- Place in visible locations near the hazard.
12. Multilingual Signage
Purpose:
Cater to international guests.
Examples:
- Welcome / Bienvenue / 欢迎"
- "Restrooms / Toilettes / 洗手间"
Design Considerations:**
- Use multiple languages for key areas.
- Ensure translations are accurate.
- Keep the design clean and uncluttered.
By categorizing and designing signage based on these types, you can create a comprehensive and effective internal signage system that enhances guest experience, ensures safety, and aligns with the hotel’s branding.
Optimizing Internal Signage for Improved Navigation and Brand Identity
A large corporate office with over 500 employees faced challenges with wayfinding, brand consistency, and accessibility. Employees and visitors often struggled to locate specific departments and meeting rooms, while existing signage lacked a unified design. Additionally, the company needed to ensure compliance with accessibility regulations.
To address these issues, a new internal signage system was implemented. Clear directional signs and color-coded zones improved navigation, while uniform department signs and nameplates enhanced visibility. Branding elements, such as custom logo signage and motivational wall graphics, helped create a cohesive corporate identity. ADA-compliant signage with Braille was also introduced to support an inclusive work environment.
As a result, wayfinding efficiency improved by 40%, employees and visitors found it easier to navigate the space, and the workplace became more aligned with the company’s brand and values. The new signage system also ensured compliance with safety and accessibility standards, contributing to a more organized and welcoming office environment.
If you need assistance with wayfinding in your hotel, reach out to our experts. We would be happy to help you on the path to an excellent user experience and we will guide you through every step.
