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wayfinding

wayfinding

1 4.5
Helping people find their way in a place using signs and maps
  • noun
  • /ˈweɪˌfaɪndɪŋ/
  • Specialized
translation icon : orientación
  • The park's wayfinding system includes clear signs that guide visitors to the nearest restroom.
  • wayfinding for the blind
  • wayfinding technology
  • wayfinding applications for travelers

Examples

  • We conclude that route instructions can improve wayfinding for individuals with visual impairments in unfamiliar buildings.

    Academic text (2010)
  • However, the bulk of research on wayfinding has focused on piloting, with very promising results and a number of commercial products already available.

    Academic text (2012)
  • The participants' wayfinding performance was evaluated using several measures.

    Academic text (2010)
  • We sincerely hope that these factors combine to increase access to these powerful wayfinding tools.

    Academic text (2007)
  • One goal was to determine if the route information provided by the Building Navigator resulted in improved wayfinding performance.

    Academic text (2010)
  • In this study, the baseline condition required wayfinding without the Building Navigator technology.

    Academic text (2010)
  • We'll continue to tweak and refine the wayfinding going forward so that visitors can find what they want.

    Blog text (1)
  • Wayfinding in large-scale real-world spaces is different from wayfinding in limited areas.

    Academic text (1997)
  • The 12-year-olds were more efficient at wayfinding than the 6-year-olds.

    Academic text (1997)
  • We are enthusiastic designers, planners, and expert technicians practicing environmental graphics, wayfinding, signage design, and exhibit design.

    Blog text (33)

Synonyms

pathfinding
vswayfinding
  • Specialized
1 5.5

Finding a route from one place to another, often used in computer games and robots

helps people move through places using maps and other guiding tools
signposting
vswayfinding
3.6

Signs and markers that show directions in places like roads and buildings

includes marked directions plus maps and other guides as a full assistance system

Antonyms

Feeling confused about where you are, who you are, or what is real

Surface Forms

wayfinding singular
wayfindings plural

Morphology

wayfinding = way + finding (transparent) = way + find + ing

The compound is directly interpretable as 'the act or system of finding a way' from 'way' + 'finding' (find + -ing).

Etymology

Wayfinding is built from the simple words way ('path' or 'road') and finding ('discovering'), so it literally means 'finding the way'. That's why wayfinding as a noun refers to the signs, maps, and systems that help people find their way around a building or place.