A lot goes behind planning and effectively executing a logical and effective signage strategy for an educational institute. In a country like India, which is highly diverse, inclusivity in signage is an important facet that cannot be missed. Then there is special consideration to be put in the strategy implementation for students/ visitors with specific needs like visual/ physical disability, illiteracy, etc. All these considerations on top of using local language to make the signages easily comprehensible needs emphasis. When it comes to the requirements and preferences of an educational institution, there are various types of signages, each serving a different purpose, be it operational or emotional. Let’s take a look at them.
Different Types of Signages for Educational Institutions
Informational
The importance of conveying pertinent information to students and regular visitors must be highly stressed in educational institutions. These can include but are not limited to maps, directories, operational hours, department names, and more. Even better, educational institutions can spend money on an information wall, which houses different kinds of signage and adds the most value. These informational signs can be placed both inside and outside of the institution.
For instance, the entrance sign of a school is crucial because it inspires pride and positive sentiments in those who pass by or enter the facility on a daily basis. Likewise, floor signs fall under the category of informational signage and can be used as a fun, interactive way to give the building some colour and life. These have a variety of uses in schools, including queue management and information sharing..
These signs can be used to drive learning even outside classrooms. To that end, signage can also be put up in various parts of the building to add a motivational element for a better mood and energy throughout the day.
Directional
For educational institutions, directional signage is one of the most crucial types of signage. The right wayfinding elements installed and strategically introduced around the complex at key locations, such as entrances, near elevators, at turns, etc., have a significant influence on students and visitors.
Directional signs can be positioned in a variety of locations, such as on walls, as standing signs, on wayfinding kiosks or mounts, etc. Depending on the output or action required, these signs can direct people using text, universal signs, or images. Today, directional signs in braille are being installed for the visually impaired, increasing inclusivity and creating a secure environment for everyone in an educational institute.
Safety
Every educational institution must have safety and regulatory signage because student safety will always be a top priority. These signs (notices) inform students of no-entry zones, dangerous areas, fire exits, etc.
Again, these signs can be posted inside the building as well as outside — for instance, “drive slowly” signs can be posted on the roads to ensure the safety of faculty, students, and visitors. In order to give the signage designs more legitimacy, these safety signs can also be displayed collectively, much like a notice board but visually more appealing. Rightly placed evacuation plans also ensure safety.
Branding
India’s education sector is anticipated to grow significantly over the next few years, reaching a market value of $225 billion in 2025, up from $117 billion in 2020. It is also one of the most competitive industries, making it essential to concentrate on branding and value-added propositions in addition to offering the best facilities.
When it comes to visits and admissions, branding signage is very effective at grabbing visitors’ attention. To evoke positive feelings, it is necessary to strategically place signs that serve as, in design terms, “hero images.” Making the right first impression, for instance, can be achieved by using a reception sign as the hero sign. Signages mentioning achievements of students or the affiliations also fall under the category of branding signage. In order to convey the core principles of any educational institution, they must be welcoming and vibrant.
Setting the tone with branding signage is integral to creating a positive vibe. These signs are also fantastic attractions for casual guests and give them a sense of pride in being a part of a prestigious institute.
The Way Forward
When developing a signage strategy for your educational institution, it’s crucial to pay attention to factors like longevity, maintenance, etc. Certain materials work better like modular signs. As a result, it’s crucial to select a material with the proper thickness, strength, weather resistance etc. The theme must be upheld to keep the same vibe throughout the campus.
We at Cosign have nearly three decades of experience in strategising and delivering the best signage solutions, whether it be for rebranding or renovating your educational institution. After learning about your needs, we share our recommendations and help you select the most practical, affordable, and effective solutions.
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