wayfinding
WAY-fynd-ing
/ˈweɪˌfaɪndɪŋ/
The process or experience of orienting oneself and navigating through physical space, often aided by signs and maps.
It refers to the system of navigation, not just a single sign.
The story behind the word. A modern term coined by architect Kevin Lynch in 1960 in his book 'The Image of the City'. It describes how people use cues in the environment to know where they are.
Word relationships
- navigation: Navigation is the general act; wayfinding is the specific design field for buildings.
Commonly confused with
- signage: Signage is the physical signs; wayfinding is the overall strategy of how people find their way.
Collocations
- wayfinding signs
- digital wayfinding
- effective wayfinding
Example sentences
- "The mall's wayfinding system was so poorly designed that many shoppers struggled to find the exit." Critiquing mall design.
Memory hook
It is the art of 'Finding' your 'Way'. The mall's GPS system.
When not to use
Do not use for simple GPS navigation in a car.
Fun facts
- Good wayfinding uses colors, landmarks, and lighting, not just words on signs.
Explore more words
navigate, Navigation, orientation, waypoint, disoriented, disorient
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