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Wayfinding

Finding your way in a hospital setting can be tricky. The stress of finding a department or destination in a (unfamiliar) building can a challenging experience.

What is there was a way to make finding your way in a hospital easier? This is where design discipline wayfinding comes into play and has the potential to improve the patient experience.

Wayfinding is a multidisciplinary design field that combines principles of cognitive psychology and human behavior for a better understanding of the surroundings.

For hospitals, wayfinding aims to address the following critical issues:

• How can we make it improve wayfinding for patients?
• Which design principles can assist to enhance the visitors experience?
• How can we create an accessible environment for all users, including people with disabilities?

In this article we will explore the importance of wayfinding principles in hospitals. The challenges we face along the way and the innovative solutions that will improve the way patients navigate healthcare settings.

By exploring the role of both traditional and digital wayfinding tools, we will highlight the potential of well-designed wayfinding to improve wayfinding in hospitals. The goal is an improved patient experience and ultimately to contribute to reduced stress when visiting a hospital.

The challenges of hospital signage

Orienting and navigating a hospital environment can be challenging for patients, visitors and even medical staff. With wayfinding research we can look through the 'eyes' of the users and understand the bottlenecks and success factors of effective wayfinding.

In this chapter we explore the main challenges of signage and take a closer look at why these problems can arise.

A. Complexity of buildings

Signage 'shows' people the way in buildings and environments. A hospital building is usually a large building with several floors, wings and departments. A hospital can have more than 100 different departments, from Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Surgery, Internal Medicine to Orthopedics, Radiology and Oncology. This can include many subspecialties.
A hospital usually consists of many departments and specialists, located throughout the hospital building, connected by squares and corridors.

Why can a hospital building have a complicated or confusing layout?

• Due to expansion and renovations, buildings can be adapted over time. Expansion of wings and/or, for example, an attached building can lead to a confusing layout.
• Due to functional requirements of departments, part of the hospital may not be accessible. As a result, to reach a certain department, you can get there via a detour.

How does (building) complexity affect patients and visitors?

• A complicated layout brings increased stress. Can I find the department? Am I on time?
• Difficulty finding departments. Where is department xx? How do I get to the department?

Why are hospital environments naturally stressful?

• Due to health problems and emotional nature, a hospital can be experienced as stressful. What do I have? Can the doctor help me?
• Due to time-bound appointments and procedures in a hospital. Am I on time? Where is...?

How does this stress affect signage?

• Due to increased stress, people (usually) have a reduced ability to process information. Where should I look?
• Due to an increased reliance on intuitive references. How does the signage work?

What are the unique signage challenges that different users face?

• Patients, visitors are not familiar with the layout of the building. Where's what?
• Patients, visitors have cognitive or physical limitations. May have difficulty processing the information.
• Non-native speakers and/or have difficulty reading the signage.

Why is it important to consider user needs when designing signage?

• Ensuring accessibility and inclusiveness principles, design-for-all concept.
• Reduce the risk of disorientation
• On time for an appointment
• Consistent information provision towards a patient and visitor gives peace of mind in orienting and navigating in an (unfamiliar) environment.

Why can it be difficult to maintain consistency in hospital signage systems?

• Due to the variety of systems and information provision around patient information.
• Information such as on the website, call letter, reception desk, ticket, referral letter and signage must be consistent for a clear picture towards the patient, visitor.

By examining these challenges in wayfinding research, we understand the user and thereby identify bottlenecks and success factors.

Wayfinding strategy for hospitals

In this chapter we discuss different ways of referring that can help improve orientation and navigation in the hospital. By implementing these strategies, hospitals become more user-friendly and accessible, reducing the stress associated with navigating healthcare facilities.

1. Well-thought-out signage
   This includes clear, concise, and easy-to-understand signage at key decision points, such as at entrances, hallways, elevators, stairways, and wards. Ensure consistency in design, colors and typography for clear communication.

Example: A hospital can create a wing layout for different departments such as A, B, C, D, etc. making it easier for users to track their destination.

2. Landmarks and Visual Recognition Points:
   Including landmarks and visual identifiers in the hospital environment can aid orientation and make it easier for users to remember the route.

Example: Placing distinctive artwork, architectural features or color schemes as landmarks in the hospital.

3. Digital Wayfinding:
   Digital wayfinding, such as interactive kiosks, mobile apps and touchscreens, can provide real-time information and personalized directions to help users navigate the hospital more easily.

Example: Digital screens in the hospital for displaying relevant information for users. Where am I? Where can I find department xx? And how do I get there?

4. Staff training and support:
   Ensuring that medical staff and employees are well aware of the signage system and tone-of-voice towards patients and visitors.

Example: A hospital could offer training sessions to employees to familiarize them with the signage and teach them how to effectively help visitors navigate the hospital.

5. Inclusive Design and Accessibility:
   Hospitals should be accessible to everyone, including people with reduced mobility, the visually impaired or the hearing impaired.

Ensure that (digital) signage takes these groups into account by using clear, high-contrast fonts, tactile elements, Braille and audio signals where appropriate.

Example: Tactile markings on the floor or braille signs assist to the help the visually impaired to navigate the building and find the right department.

By implementing these signage strategies and addressing bottlenecks and success factors, healthcare facilities can significantly improve the user experience of patients, visitors and staff. This leads to less stress, increased satisfaction and ultimately better healthcare outcomes.

Digital wayfinding in hospitals

Digitization in signage is important for improving the overall user experience in a hospital. Digital tools provide real-time information, personalized routes and additional resources to assist patients and visitors in navigating complex hospital environments.

In this chapter we discuss examples and use cases for digital wayfinding.

1. Real Time Information:
   Digital signage can provide real-time information and updates about, for example, waiting times, routes and where you are in a hospital.

Example: Digital information signs can display the current waiting times for departments and/or other hospital services.

2. Integration with Social Media and Online Communication:
   A social media integration platform to assist patients and visitors plan their visit, receive (route) information and share feedback.

Example: A hospital can implement a (AI) chatbot to assist users for navigating questions, ask for directions, and for instance scheduling appointments.

3. Digital Screens:
   Interactive screens can provide patients with real-time information about their destination, directions and additional services such as finding a nearby restroom or coffee corner.

Example: A hospital can place interactive screens or a kiosk at the entrance and install it on every floor, where visitors can receive personalized route information.

4. Mobile Information :
   Show relevant information on digitale signage screens, such as routes and destinations in the hospital. Think about including a "you are here" on a map and/or use directory signs for an overview of departments.

Example: A hospital can display the information in a mobile environment, which is linked to the hospital's website.

5. Augmented Reality (AR) Signage:
   AR technology could overlay digital information in the real environment, such as arrows and text, using a smartphone's camera.

Example: An overlay that guides users using digital cues that overlap with the real environment.

The implementation of digital signage in hospitals creates an integrated patient experience and approach. The starting point is to use technology for a more personalized route and real-time updates, resulting in an improved user experience.

Wayfinding scenarios

In this chapter we discuss different scenarios for referring users in a hospital building. A new or existing hospital building usually has an entrance, exit, atrium, floors, corridors and wards. Destinations in a hospital can be 'coded' by using a wayfinding strategy. By means of a reference key it is possible to easily reach destinations. Below are a few examples:

1. Route numbers
   Organizing the hospital with route numbers. This means that each destination gets a route number. Patients, visitors use the route number to reach a destination. Route numbers can be ascending or linked to, for example, a floor.

Example: Route 142, where 1 stands for floor 1 and 42 is the sequential number. This way you can always find where you are in a hospital.

2. Wing layout
   With wing layouts, lift points such as elevators or stairs are classified with a name or letters. For example A, B, C, D, etc. With wing layouts, the letters are usually followed by a number, which stands for the floor.

Example: C2, where C stands for the wing and 3 for the floor. An addition of a number can indicate even further specifications, such as C2-12. Where, for example, 12 is the waiting area on wing C floor 2.

3. User-friendly (digital) additions
   This scenario adds tactile and auditory information to wayfinding scenarios for reaching foreign speaking people or for people who have difficulty walking or have reduced vision capacity.

Testing the wayfinding scenarios is important to gain feedback from users. A scenario is building, process and user-related. Implementing a clear and concise wayfinding scenario improves an intuitive way finding destinations in a hospital.

Conclusion

A wayfinding design strategy plays an important role in improving the user experience in a hospital.

Implementing a well-thought-out wayfinding strategy and scenarios, users can orientate and navigate more easily. The starting point is to improve the user experience, which contributes to a positive image of the hospital.

The roll-out of both fixed and digital wayfinding tools, such as signage and digital displays, can help provide an integrated approach and experience tailored to users' requirements and needs.

In conclusion, a wayfinding design and strategy are indispensable for creating an accessible, safe and user-friendly environment in hospitals. It is vital that hospitals and wayfinding design studios work together to implement effective solutions that help patients, visitors and staff navigate and feel comfortable in these complex environments.

DannyLaiLai is a Chinese artist from Beijing, recognized for his traditional oil paintings and digital artworks that blend ethereal aesthetics with realistic elements. His portfolio includes a variety of subjects, from serene landscapes to intimate portraits, all characterized by a delicate interplay of light and shadow. More: Artstation

One description of a WordPress plugin could be “a software addon that packs a punch”. That doesn’t necessarily apply to every WordPress plugin. Even though that is more often than not the purpose behind them. At their best, plugins can be capable of taking a business to the next level, and that could be your […]

The post 9 Essential WordPress Plugins for 2023 appeared first on WebAppers.

The requirement of safeguarding original presentation designs has never been more crucial as presentations get increasingly interactive, visually appealing, and indispensable in both corporate and creative domains. Your work is valuable, whether you are a tech entrepreneur creating software that changes the way presentations are done or a designer creating fresh slide decks for customers. ...

The post Protecting Your Unique Presentation Designs: IP Strategies for Creators appeared first on noupe.

Are you prepared with the financial risk management strategies that can keep your business steady […]

Top home design software for real estate pros: explore features, benefits, and tips to streamline project planning, design, and budgeting.

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Wave riders and shutterbugs alike, gather around. Mastering surf photography is a bit like surfing itself—it’s all about balance, timing, and having the right gear. I remember when I first waded into the ocean with my camera; each breaking wave was an invitation to capture something epic.

We’ll dive into picking cameras that won’t buckle under the saltwater spray and lenses that bring distant surfers up close. Think high-speed chases—you need a fast shutter speed for those action-packed moments where every droplet counts.

You’re set to discover composition tips that make viewers feel they’re riding along and advanced techniques for shots so sharp they cut through your viewer’s attention span. By the end of our journey together, you’ll be snapping surf photos worthy of magazine covers or at least some serious bragging rights.

Choosing the Right Camera and Lens for Surf Photography

If you’re looking to capture the raw power of a barreling wave or the finesse of a surfer shot, having top-notch gear is key. So, let’s talk about surf photography equipment.

Cropped Sensor vs. Full Frame Cameras

For starters,

On Sep 2nd, 2010, I spoke at a design conference called Frontend 2010 (hosted by IXD) in Oslo, Norway. Below is the slide of my presentation. You may read the recap on Web Designer Wall or download the presentation at SlideShare.

The world of marketing is constantly shifting and adapting, making it essential for today’s marketers to stay in the know of the latest trends.  It’s important to have knowledge of digital marketing strengths like mastering SEO or using social media tools correctly- but that alone isn’t enough to make your business stand out to customers […]

SendPulse is one of the leading email marketing platforms which offers integrated solutions: emails, SMS, push notifications, SMTP and API. It was launched in 2015, and now is a successful startup with representatives in 8 countries. SendPulse team offers cost and time efficient service  to over 250,000 active users including large and small businesses and … Continue reading Why to start email marketing with SendPulse

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Introduction Why Pinterest Deserves Your Attention Now, let’s talk numbers—impressive numbers. With over 450 million active dreamers and doers, Pinterest is not merely thriving; it’s bustling with opportunity. For the astute blogger, these aren’t just stats—they represent a bustling metropolis of potential readers, engaged followers, and eventual customers. Each user is searching, planning, and ready […]

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Checklist for content marketing essentials

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Cette photographie aérienne capture l’essence d’un paysage rural, baigné de lumière sous un ciel parsemé de nuages floconneux. Les vastes étendues de champs verts se déploient à perte de vue, bordés par des rangées d’arbres aux teintes automnales, où le jaune et l’orange s’entrelacent avec le vert foncé des sapins. Au cœur de cette composition,...

Get 20-60% off Logo Package Express with our exclusive discount coupon code. This Adobe Illustrator extension automates the exporting & sorting of logo files.

BOSTON, Massachusetts, USA -- March 27, 2024 -- The Free Software Foundation (FSF) today announced Alyssa Rosenzweig, who reverse-engineered Apple's current line of graphics processing units (GPU), as keynote speaker for LibrePlanet 2024. LibrePlanet 2024: Cultivating Community is the sixteenth edition of the FSF's conference on ethical technology and user freedom and will be held on May 4 and 5 at the Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston, MA, as well as online.

Scientists have found a link between manganese deficiency and both inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and increased inflammation and damage in the intestine.

For thousands of years, Mars, aka the Red Planet, has fascinated skywatchers from countless civilizations and cultures, leading some to speculate that it w

For thousands of years, Mars, aka the Red Planet, has fascinated skywatchers from countless civilizations and cultures, leading some to speculate that it w

Scientists have found a link between manganese deficiency and both inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and increased inflammation and damage in the intestine.

Scientists have found a link between manganese deficiency and both inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and increased inflammation and damage in the intestine.

Scientists have found a link between manganese deficiency and both inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and increased inflammation and damage in the intestine.

For thousands of years, Mars, aka the Red Planet, has fascinated skywatchers from countless civilizations and cultures, leading some to speculate that it w

Organizer: Royal Roads University - Continuing Studies
Location: Online

Sent workshop announcement and call for speakers to the website-info-mgt JISCMail list. [2006-01-06]

Sent workshop announcement and call for speakers to the web-support JISCMail list. [2006-01-09]

Nedstat launch their Sector Stats programme, collating industry wide statistics about Institutional Web site activity, to be presented at IWMW 2006. [2006-02-17]

The online booking form for IWMW is now available. [2006-04-05]

All plenary speaker's presentations are now available from the IWMW 2006 Web site. See relevant abstracts for links. [2006-06-16]

Sent workshop announcement and call for speakers to the website-info-mgt JISCMail list. [2005-14-02]

Sent workshop announcement and call for speakers to the web-support JISCMail list. [2005-14-02]

The JISC Service and Vendor Presentations session will be an open session, and not restricted just to registered delegates. Feel free to mention this session to your colleagues.

A multimedia presentation of Stephen Emmott's talk on "Customers, Suppliers, and the Need for Partnerships" is now available. The presentation, which is in SMIL format, combines a recording of Stephen's talk with a display of the PowerPoint slides he used. [2005-07-26]

Helen Sargan, University of Cambridge will show that there are several realistic alternatives to using a slide presentation tool such as Powerpoint or similar. she'll give an overview and demo of several Web-based alternatives with the pros and cons of using them, a profile of the constituencies who would benefit, and what skills and support they might need to succeed.

In previous IWMWs sessions have focussed on issues such as: Should we buy or build our CMS? Which CMS should we implement? How do we implement our CMS? How can we measure the impact of our CMS Implementation? And how do we address The CMS Challenge? But last year it was claimed that "There is no such thing as a silver bullet" and that a CMS will not solve all your problems. Has the CMS bubble bust? Has content management become content mis-management? In the light of new approaches, such as Web 2.0, and new 'ways of doing things' is there a feeling of disillusionment with 'ye old CMS'? Or does a CMS remain the backbone of a good institutional Web site? In this debate you will hear the arguments for and against content management systems and will have an opportunity to express your views.