The above pictures are of my final project that I completed for my B.F.A. in Visual Communication Design at Kent State University. I researched wayfinding systems and the use of symbols directional systems. I looked at how systems directed users, especially non-English speaking users, throughout environments and contributed to positive user experiences. I then used the information I gathered to come up with a wayfinding system for the West Side Market in Cleveland. The West Side Market is a market located just west of downtown Cleveland and it home to more than 100 vendors and sells a wide range of products. The market is a Cleveland landmark than has been around for nearly 100 years.
The market receives a large amount of visitors and customers daily, many from different backgrounds. Unfortunately they have no clear directional system and many people get disoriented and lost easily. I created a wayfinding system that directed users, enhanced the overall experience, and complimented the unique architecture of the market. I implemented symbols that represented the different products sold at the market and used colors to direct users to different areas. The wayfinding system consisted of exterior signage, parking signs, interior directional signs, booth signs, an orientation map, an informational pamphlet and a narrative that highlighted the history and people of the market. I assembled my entire project in an 11x17" book that I bound and covered myself.
I presented my research and project to a small group of Kent professors in early August. Although I was very nervous, I passed and then finally graduated on August 21st! Overall, I was very happy with the end result of my project. Now, I have to get it in front of the tenants association at the market, so maybe they can implement some of my ideas...I'll keep you posted.
