Signage and Wayfinding
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Guidelines
Any and all signage that uses any university trademark must be authorized by the university prior to installation and use. Please contact the Office of Marketing for permissions and use guidance.
All signage should be processed, fabricated, and installed through the Physical Plant Sign Shop to ensure all sign standards are followed. Large architectural complexes, such as Wright State University, require an effective system of visual communication that projects a uniform institutional identity, while at the same time integrating well with the present and future campus environment.
Sign elements fall into four basic categories according to function or the information they provide:
- Identification Signs—These signs name a place, facility, or thing
- Information Signs—These signs give specific, detailed information such as building directories, open hours, schedules, etc.
- Directional Signs—These signs provide a guide for vehicular or pedestrian traffic
- Regulative and Prohibitive Signs—These signs denote regulations and restrictions, or have even stronger emphasis if there is danger involved
Good signage provides a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing arrangement in the following three areas of design:
- Communication—What signs say, to whom, and for what purpose; how they say it; where the signs are located; and how well signs communicate
- Graphic Design—How typography, maps, diagrams, iconic and coded symbols, and colors are used to organize information, emphasize messages, and help to create an overall visual identity
- Hardware Design—How signs are fabricated and installed, their size and shape, and how they are maintained and integrated within the physical environment
Typography
The Helvetica type family will be used for signage. Helvetica Medium is the most frequently used typeface in signage because it reads most easily and quickly. It has a simple, timeless, classic quality and is especially desirable in architectural signing. Additionally, it integrates well with the existing Wright State University architecture.
A system of letter spacing, word spacing, and line spacing will be used that provides maximum legibility. Uppercase and lowercase letters will be used.
Color
Permanent External Signs—The sign base color will be duranodic bronze. Vinyl for signage does not come in PMS colors. Imitation Gold vinyl has been selected to represent the university standard gold (PMS 139) for typeface and graphic elements.
Sign Locations
Signs will be placed in standard locations where they can easily be found. Wherever possible, signs will be placed together in a unified system to avoid clutter to the landscape. Site signage will be located so as not to become an obstacle or to conflict with exit signs or pedestrian traffic. Signs will be placed to allow safe pedestrian clearance, vertically and laterally. Site location should avoid conflict with door openings or vehicular operations. Signs will be located wherever possible in the "natural line of vision." Consideration of those with limited head mobility and reduced peripheral vision will be given. Interior signage will be placed where it can easily be found, with consideration for tactile signs where possible.
ADA Compliance
Wright State University makes every attempt to comply with ADA signage requirements, policies, and best practices in its presentation of wayfinding, as outlined in the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design. We consult with signage professionals when creating new wayfinding signage for ADA compliance.
