In the intricate maze of indoor environments like hospitals, large office buildings, or airports, static signage is one of the most common ways of offering directions.

Static signage used for navigation typically refers to signs that are permanently fixed and are not designed for frequent updates, such as large printed signs, directional signage, and notice boards.

While signage is intended to provide essential information to navigate a space easily, its static nature often fails to adequately address the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities, thus hindering their ability to navigate indoor spaces effectively.

At some point everyone has a disability

Disabilities come in all forms and aren’t just limited to people with visible and physical disabilities. In addition to permanent disabilities, at some point in their lives, most people may acquire temporary disabilities or situational impairments. Temporary injuries, such as a broken leg or arm, can significantly impact mobility and require alternative routes or accommodations for navigating indoor spaces. Similarly, situational impairments, such as pushing a stroller or carrying heavy luggage, may require adjustments in signage to accommodate varying needs.

1. Inaccessible for people with Vision Impairment
   

For individuals with vision impairment, static signage presents a significant barrier to navigation. Traditional signs rely solely on visual cues, making them inaccessible to those with blindness or low vision. 

Additionally, static signage often overlooks the importance of contrast and visibility, making it difficult for individuals with vision impairment to discern the content.

Poor colour choices, inadequate font sizes, and insufficient contrast ratios contribute to diminished legibility, exacerbating the challenges faced by those with vision impairments.

Without additional ways of interpreting the signs, such as through audio directions or other features, crucial information remains out of reach, impeding their autonomy and independence.

2. Complex Language and Jargon
   

   
   

Inaccessibility extends beyond physical features to encompass the language and content of static signage. Complex terminology, industry-specific jargon, and lengthy descriptions create barriers for individuals with cognitive disabilities or learning difficulties. Hospitals, for example, often utilise medical jargon in their signs, which is not always clear to visitors or patients, such as ‘Ambulatory Care’ or ‘Outpatient Services’- meaning an area people can walk in for medical assistance.

3. Height and Placement

    

The placement of static signage can pose significant obstacles for individuals with mobility impairments or those who use mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers. Signs mounted at inaccessible heights or obstructed by obstacles inhibit their access to vital information, relegating them to the sidelines of navigation and communication.

4. Limited Multi-sensory Engagement

    

Unlike dynamic digital signage, static signage fails to leverage multisensory engagement to enhance accessibility. Audio directions, tactile feedback, and interactive elements remain largely absent, depriving individuals with sensory disabilities of alternative means of wayfinding.

5. Increased Reliance on Staff Assistance

    

In the absence of clear and intuitive wayfinding, people with a disability are forced to seek assistance from others to navigate their surroundings. While seeking support from customer service staff can be helpful, most people with a disability deeply value their independence and self-reliance. 

Independence is fundamental to human dignity, enabling individuals to make choices, pursue opportunities, and engage with their surroundings autonomously. However, when wayfinding systems fail to meet their needs, people with disabilities are faced with barriers to independence, leaving them in a state of dependency and frustration.
 

Addressing the Accessibility Gap:

To bridge the accessibility gap and foster inclusivity, large complex indoor locations such as office buildings, hospitals, university campuses and transport hubs should look beyond the limitations offered by static wayfinding signage. Advancements in technology, such as accessible wayfinding apps and integrated digital wayfinding systems, offer the ability to address barriers to navigation.

Digital wayfinding solutions enable everyone, particularly people with disabilities, to navigate using features such as intuitive audio directions, wheelchair routes and other accessible features that will help ensure they can easily and independently find their way around using a smartphone.

Unlike printed signage, which can become outdated when a building expands or renovates, digital wayfinding is dynamic and can be updated regularly without needing new signage to be printed, delivered, and installed.

While static signage is a common form of communication and navigation in our built environment, its inherent limitations perpetuate the exclusion and marginalisation of people with disabilities.

By recognising and addressing these shortcomings, we can cultivate a more inclusive society where access to information is equitable and universal.