A lot goes behind planning and effectively executing a logical and effective signage strategy for an educational institute. In a country like India, which is highly diverse, inclusivity in signage is an important facet that cannot be missed. Then there is special consideration to be put in the strategy implementation for students/ visitors with specific needs like visual/ physical disability, illiteracy, etc. All these considerations on top of using local language to make the signages easily comprehensible needs emphasis. When it comes to the requirements and preferences of an educational institution, there are various types of signages, each serving a different purpose, be it operational or emotional. Let’s take a look at them.
Different Types of Signages for Educational Institutions
Informational
The importance of conveying pertinent information to students and regular visitors must be highly stressed in educational institutions. These can include but are not limited to maps, directories, operational hours, department names, and more. Even better, educational institutions can spend money on an information wall, which houses different kinds of signage and adds the most value. These informational signs can be placed both inside and outside of the institution. For instance, the entrance sign of a school is crucial because it inspires pride and positive sentiments in those who pass by or enter the facility on a daily basis. Likewise, floor signs fall under the category of informational signage and can be used as a fun, interactive way to give the building some colour and life. These have a variety of uses in schools, including queue management and information sharing.. These signs can be used to drive learning even outside classrooms. To that end, signage can also be put up in various parts of the building to add a motivational element for a better mood and energy throughout the day.
Directional
For educational institutions, directional signage is one of the most crucial types of signage. The right wayfinding elements installed and strategically introduced around the complex at key locations, such as entrances, near elevators, at turns, etc., have a significant influence on students and visitors. Directional signs can be positioned in a variety of locations, such as on walls, as standing signs, on wayfinding kiosks or mounts, etc. Depending on the output or action required, these signs can direct people using text, universal signs, or images. Today, directional signs in braille are being installed for the visually impaired, increasing inclusivity and creating a secure environment for everyone in an educational institute.
Safety
Every educational institution must have safety and regulatory signage because student safety will always be a top priority. These signs (notices) inform students of no-entry
