You are here - simplifying wayfinding solutions to improve user experience.

Navigating environments with conflicting directional signs can be incredibly frustrating. Despite the rise of various technological solutions, I argue that effective wayfinding tools should emphasise simplicity and accessibility. As project budgets become tighter, it's essential to explore cost-effective strategies for integrating wayfinding materials into design schemes.

In my presentation, I will walk through a contemporary wayfinding challenge and propose a viable solution. Many wayfinding issues stem from a lack of cohesion and insufficient understanding of the users' needs. I aim to showcase that, with the right techniques, wayfinding can be an integral aspect of project development rather than a last-minute addition.

Drawing from my experiences with confusing and outdated wayfinding systems, I will demonstrate how removing these barriers can enhance operational efficiency, cultivate a sense of place, and deliver significant cost benefits. Ultimately, effective wayfinding is not just beneficial but essential for improving user experience and project outcomes.

Lewis Kiely - Assistant Transportation Planning Officer, Devon County Council

Predicting the effectiveness of a vision led approach to transport planning for a proposed new community

There is a need to increase the uptake of more sustainable travel modes. One way of achieving this is through vision led planning. Under this, transport planners decide how they would like people to travel in the future and provide the means to make this happen. Whilst not new concept, there is an apparent lack of literature relating to impacts it can generate.

Assessment is made predicting the impact vision led transport infrastructure would have on travel behaviour for a proposed new town. A ‘predict and provide’ approach is taken to forecast transport demand of the new community. Adjustments are made using evidence based approaches to estimate the impact delivery of sustainable travel infrastructure would have. It is concluded that improving the attractiveness of active and public transport will have some desired impact on travel behaviour, but greater impact is achieved when combined with measures reducing the convenience of driving. 

Charlie Brown - Assistant Research, Devon County Council

The balance of art and science in measuring walkability

As humans, we’ve been walking for a while. Most people nowadays know how walking and wheeling benefit physical and mental health. Yet between the gradient of the path and the width of the path, who or what decides which is more important in defining whether you walk upon it or not? Deciding how certain walking schemes are prioritised and financed over others ought to be founded on a scientific and statistical approach. It’s on this logic that I aim to explore how walkability is measured.

This presentation will delve into various quantitative methods, the theoretical framework of walkability, and data limitations in measuring walkability. It will also address subjective aspects, such as aesthetic appeal and cultural factors, and discuss balancing functional requirements with these elements. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that everyone, regardless of their level of mobility, can enjoy the benefits of walking in a safe and accessible environment.