Hotels are multifaceted in that they typically offer a variety of amenities, including guest rooms, dining options, event spaces, spa facilities, and fitness centers. Effective wayfinding signage is essential in these environments to help guests and employees navigate and reach their desired destinations with ease. Otherwise, guests are at a risk of wasting their time and energy aimlessly circling the area without clear directions, trying to locate what they need. Wayfinding signage is a specific type of signage that helps people navigate through a space or environment. This type of signage typically features maps, directional arrows, and other information to help users find their way to specific locations within a building, campus, or public space.

Wayfinding signage is commonly used in hotels to help guests and staff navigate efficiently and effectively, reducing confusion and improving the overall user experience. Continue reading to discover 5 ways for maximizing your wayfinding and directory signage:

  • Be Clear and Concise: Make sure your signage is straightforward and easy to read. Use simple language and minimal wording to convey the necessary information. Avoid jargon or complicated language. For example, instead of saying “Please do not obstruct this exit, as it is reserved for emergency personnel only,” you could simply say “Emergency Exit Only.” Or instead of listing rooms individually on a directory sign (example: “Rooms 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108 are on the left”), you could simply say “Rooms 101-108” with an arrow pointing to the left. These directional signs get straight to the point and are easily understood by all. 
2 parents walk past the hotel directional signs to the pool and elevators, each holding on of their son's hands
  • Have a Cohesive Design: Keep the design of your signage consistent throughout the hotel. Use the same style, font, and color scheme to create continuity that is easy for guests to follow. This will help to establish a unified brand image and make it easier for guests to navigate the hotel. It also adds a level of professionalism and attention to detail that will impress guests. Consistency in design helps build trust and credibility with guests, as they will see that hotel management pays attention to even the smallest details.  Per 21st Century AV, “Personalized hotel branding signage helps to create a unique and memorable guest experience. It reflects the hotel’s personality and values, and helps to differentiate it from its competitors. Guests are more likely to remember a hotel that has a strong and consistent brand identity, and to return to it in the future.” HOTELSIGNS.com features more than 50 sign collections, each of which includes matching room number signs, common area signs, directional signs, restroom signs, information signs, fire safety signs, and stair and exit signs which coordinate seamlessly. 
  • Ensure Strategic Placement: Place your signage in high traffic areas where guests are likely to see them. Make sure they are visible from a distance and positioned at eye level for easy reading. All of our signs are guaranteed to meet current ADA regulations, and we provide guidance on proper sign installation to ensure compliance. Lastly, make sure your signage is well-lit, particularly in dim areas such as corridors and stairwells.
  • Provide Directions: Use floor directories to guide guests to key areas such as the lobby area, elevators, restrooms, swimming pool, and guest rooms. Directional signs are typically located at key intersections and decision points throughout the hotel. To help guests navigate around the hotel, include arrows to indicate a direction and use numbers to indicate floors levels. Overhead signs may also be beneficial in hallways.
A woman read the DIRECTORY sign noting room number, fitness center, parking garage, and whirlpool/spa locations within the property.
  • Update Signage Regularly: Frequently review and update your wayfinding signage to reflect any changes in the hotel layout or facilities. Remove outdated signage and replace it with new information, as needed. Updating signage will also ensure that guests are receiving the most accurate and up-to-date information during their stay. 

To make the most of your wayfinding signage, be sure to observe how guests interact with it and gather feedback to identify any areas that may need improvement. Make adjustments as needed to ensure a seamless and intuitive navigation experience. By actively seeking and incorporating guest input, you can continuously refine and enhance the wayfinding system to meet the needs and expectations of your visitors. If you find that you are in need of new wayfinding signage – such as directory signs, overhead signs, exit signs, or more – visit HOTELSIGNS.com to shop! For assistance, call us at 888-273-8726 to speak with our dedicated customer service team.