Wayfinding and signage

What is wayfinding?

Wayfinding refers to the systems of elements that combine together to help people navigate, orient and move through a physical space. It can include things such as maps, physical or digital signage, lighting and architectural clues, often working in combination with one another.

The Property Division works collaboratively with the Design and Editorial team to manage day-to-day wayfinding needs across Imperial.

Wayfinding Guidelines

Imperial's Wayfinding Guidelines outline the core principles of wayfinding at the university and how they should be utilised in order to ensure consistency across all campuses. They provide detail on how signage and materials in specific contexts should be designed and to what specifications they must be produced.

The Wayfinding Guidelines must be used by anyone designing or producing a sign or other wayfinding material across Imperial.

Who is responsible for wayfinding signage?

The Property Division is responsible for the design and production of most wayfinding signage. This includes:

• External and internal building name signs (including any associated planning permissions)
• Primary wayfinding and directional signage
• Safety signage

If your faculty or department requires additional signage, this is at your responsibility to produce in accordance with the Wayfinding Guidelines. We are able to support you with outlining the process and getting signs produced correctly and on-brand. Please contact your Building Manager to begin a conversation about additional signage.