One of the most important aspects of wayfinding design is understanding how to engage with the users of the area being developed. Although you may have an idea of how to do this, sometimes it can be difficult to execute continued engagement. Here are a few tips on how to keep current and future users of your area interested…
Interactivity
Advertising is an easy way to give subtle reminders about places and activities occurring within your area. For example, partnering up with local businesses, you can put beacons on the sides of their shops. Once someone with a smartphone walks past the beacon, an ad will then pop up next time they’re using the internet or supported social media platforms.
These beacons can also be used for the internal GPS of tall buildings, hospitals etc. It’s a way to help people communicate with the devices they are already using. It eases the navigation of the user while also helping you track foot traffic throughout these spaces.
Mobile Apps
It’s no surprise the users of most areas are likely to be on their phones or at least have them in their pockets. So why not create a mobile application dedicated to the area they are trying to navigate. This can offer essential navigational information as well as interesting historical facts and backgrounds of the different buildings and influential figures.
Personal Touch
While we live in a time of rapid technological advancements, it’s important to remember that we’re all still human. Personal interaction is something that signage won’t be able to recreate. For example, in a town or city centre, you may consider having a tourist desk or information stand with people ready to answer any questions users may have. At the end of the day, while it’s important, it’s not all about technology.
Adding a personal touch will allow you to make a statement for people to remember. You need your brand to be very apparent when people visit or reminisce about a place.
Experience Through Events
Give your areas users a good experience through different events. Events, exhibitions, festivals and parades are all great ways to promote your town or city while boosting the morale of residents. A win, win.
Consider the Users
When implementing any of the above tips or ideas, you must consider who will be using and navigating the environment. For example, if the area you’re designing will be used primarily by an older generation, you may want to think twice about having a massive Electronic Dance Music festival.
Overall, there are many different ways that you can interact with and engage area users, you just need to get creative. If you have any questions, why not give us a call?