Wayfinding in University Settings: A Case Study of the Wayfinding Design Process at Carleton University

This research focuses on the complex wayfinding issues within a university campus, with Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada, as a specific case study. A literature search on wayfinding issues in such environments as well as a primary research engaging several stakeholders was conducted. This served as the bases for the investigation methods. These methods were semi-structured interviews with organisation staff and design consultants, an online survey of end-users and finally an archival document analysis that related these findings to policies and documentation available through Carleton websites. The study examined best practice at Carleton University. It was concluded that designers have a role in providing effective wayfinding design, which should be included earlier in the design process. In addition, designers need to be aware of inclusive activities, such as understanding the needs of special people with disabilities and outliers, which may result in creativity and innovation that exceeds typical aesthetic standards.