Studio Brief 1 - Wayfinding - Directional Pictograms

Directional Symbols

Using feedback from the crit I have decided to use the symbol representing an owls field of vision. The pictograms for each place will be put within the circular part of the arrow as a way of showing what they are pointing to.

Compact curves could be used as a way of signifying something that is closer and spread out curves something that I further away.

The use of more curves could show something that is further away and less curves could mean something closer.

The use of a semi-circular curve makes the arrow look to pronounced and when used with a shorter length arm it may interfere with the circular part of the arrow.  Using a third of a circle for the arrow head looks more like the diagrams used to explain an owls field of vision and is not too emphasised. Having the arrow head and arm so that it is the same width  as circle makes it look consistent however it may not be overly pronounced when on the ground. Potentially having a thicker arm may help the arrow stand out more on the ground.

The arrow consists of a directional area rather than an actual arrow, with the ‘field of vision’ becoming a directional marker. When there is more of the curve it looks less like a directional aide.

Extending the arm of the arrow could be used as a way of showing distance. The arrow with the smallest arm would work as a way of signifying the viewing spots. These would point in the direction of the facade that the owls could be found.

Combining arrows will work in the same way as a road sign pointing to various places in different directions. The pictograms for each place would remain in the circular part of the arrow.

Pictograms could be cut in half or more so that they share a circle. This would make the arrows compact and concise however it may reduce the clarity and understanding of the symbols. Overlapping circles slightly would allow more space for the two pictograms to be clearly seen. Directions to the next place could be combined with the viewing spot arrows, so when you arrive at one destination you are then guided to the next.

Directional arrows that use half of two pictograms within them are too abstract to distinguish between. Also having a thicker arrow stands out more however I am not sure whether it’s consistent enough. Using an arrow that is both for the viewing spot and a directional arrow to the next place may make it hard to know what location you are looking for because of its vagueness.

Arrows at different lengths are the most effective and understandable way of showing distance. These can be used for he viewing spots as well as for the directional arrows.