Signage System

Sign elements fall into four basic categories according to function or the information they provide:

1. Identification Signs — These signs name a place, facility, or thing.
2. Information Signs — These signs give specific, detailed information such as building directories, open hours, schedules, etc.
3. Directional Signs — These signs provide a guide for vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
4. 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:

1. Communication — What signs say, to whom, and for what purpose; how they say it; where the signs are located; and how well signs communicate.
2. 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.
3. 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. 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 letterspacing, word spacing, and line spacing will be used that provides maximum legibility. Uppercase and lowercase letters will be used.

Graphic Grid

In order to ensure the legibility and recognition of symbols and type, it is important that certain visual elements be kept consistent. A consistent "grid" will be used as a basis for sign layouts.

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. Room numbers and Office Identification (O.I.D.) will be mounted to the doorknob side of each room.