Camosun College is one of Greater Victoria’s primary post-secondary educational institutions. The College updated its brand identity to create a more welcoming and consistent visual theme for students, staff and visitors – whether they they arrive on campus in person, receive print materials, or visit online. On campus signage was an important aspect of communicating Camosun College’s new brand identity, and CitySpaces was engaged to undertake the Wayfinding Strategy.
CitySpaces team developed a practical and phased WayFinding strategy to incorporate the new brand identity. There were five components to this project:
- A review of current Wayfinding and a user profile;
- A five category typology: major identification signage, destination signage, directional signage, regulatory signage, and indoor signage;
- Nine objectives to guide future signage design and fabrication: positively phrased, visually inviting, using identical designs, colours and materials at each campus, readable at night, simple to read for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians, awareness of vision and mobility impairment, vandal-proof materials and defining and animating public spaces;
- A Wayfinding Concept Plan for each of the two campuses; and
- A design checklist for graphic designers and sign makers.
Our methodology involved an inventory of existing outdoor signage at Camosun College’s two campuses, based on information gathered in client meetings, from existing maps, site visits and photography. We also observed campus users – numbers of staff and students by time of day, their normal mode of transportation, and their on-foot travel paths. From this, an issues and opportunities plan was developed, which lead to the establishment of nine objectives and a simple signage concept. Additionally, CitySpaces researched best practices from other educational, health and commercial venues and prepared guidelines for signage appearance and materials. The report includes maps and photographs drawn from a variety of sources.
Camosun College has adhered to the WayFinding strategy and guidelines since they were adopted.
PROJECT TEAM:
