The Functions and Classification of Public Transport Station Signage and Guidance Systems

The so-called public transportation signs, including the airport, railway station and subway sign guidance systems, have the function of identification and indication. This function has two layers of meaning: one is the actual indication meaning, which points out the location, direction, road and behavioral momentum, such as the entrance of the place, the restroom, the parking lot, etc.; the other is the psychological identification of the wayfinder, that is, the form, shape, texture and placement of the guidance system design should reflect the cultural or regional context.
According to the first meaning of the communication function, the design of the subway sign guidance system can be divided into five major types: identification, direction, space, explanation and restriction.
Identification of wayfinding system design.
The identification wayfinding system design refers to the design that indicates where one is or what something is, mainly including designs aimed at distinction. For instance, landmark buildings, murals, sculptures, restrooms, and parking lots, etc.
2. Directional signage system design.
Directional signage system design mainly refers to the design of route signs that guide to specific places and facilities through indicators such as arrows. This type of design aims to guide the direction of passage and is suitable for situations where direct guidance to the destination is needed. For example: road signs, billboards and arrows, etc.
3. Spatial wayfinding system design.
The design of spatial wayfinding systems refers to the design that visually or tactilely represents positional relationships through maps or graphics. It is based on the principle of comprehensive guidance, allowing users to grasp the overall structure and selectively utilize spatial position information to guide them to their destinations.
4. Explain the design of the wayfinding system.
Wayfinding systems are typically found in environments prone to ambiguity or designed to explain situations, serving the functions of conveying the intentions of managers and the content of facilities. To more accurately explain ambiguity or situations, such wayfinding systems are often designed in the form of articles.
5. Management of wayfinding system design.
Management wayfinding system design refers to the design aimed at indicating legal and administrative regulations. Generally, it mainly represents items that require attention, and performs the function of urging people to pay attention to safety and abide by the order.