In a building or space, it can sometimes be difficult to determine which facilities or features are available and their locations, especially on a first visit. Few users of a space or building would have advanced knowledge of what facilities have been provided.
The value and utility of good signage lie not just in conveying information to an end user but also in providing reassurance and confidence that the end-user has indeed arrived at the right spot. Conversely, poor identification signage, or a lack of signage altogether, might do little to aid users, especially if they already happened to be lost. This would be just as applicable to users with sensory considerations – such as vision or hearing loss – as it would be to everyone else.
The Building Code of Australia (BCA) and the federal DDA Premises Standards 2010 contain a raft of minimum code prescriptions with respect to accessible identification signage, including the provision of Braille and raised text. Beyond simple compliance with the code, though, the following considerations can provide users with additional guidance and reassurance.
Consistency of style and content. Having consistent content for the relevant facilities and consistent visual stylings in signage can reduce the need for users to reinterpret signs for similar things each time – meaning that they can comfortably know what to expect.
Provide clear information on the availability of dedicated facilities and features. For example, a particular user might be specifically seeking information on the availability of hearing augmentation or female ambulant toilets. If effort and expense are expended on installing such facilities, it would make sense for their availability to be made known to users who would benefit from them.
Provision of clear directions on how and where to obtain more assistance. A user may require further assistance if, for example, a piece of equipment in a building is defective or if they need guidance on how that equipment works. Good signage practice would provide direction as to how or where to seek assistance. In addition, general staff assistance could be provided at key points in a building or space, such as at the main entrance.