Final Evaluation - Wayfinding

Overall the wayfinding system connecting Leeds Print Festival  to independent shops within Leeds is successful in addressing objectivity and subjectivity within graphic design. Subjectivity can be seen in the representation of distance with the pictograms through the use of varying the incline of the curve based on the distance the shop is from the print festival as well as in the limited use of typography and directional pictograms such as arrows within the system. Objectivity can be seen in the use of the distance within the pictograms as without this the distance and pictograms would be too difficult to interpret highlighting my option that graphic design should include both subjective and objective aspects in order to be successful. In addition the wayfinding system is successful due to its ability to engage the audience in many ways such as through the use of a rating system using stickers which adds to the personal experience created by using staff member to hold the placards replicating the unique and personal experiences within the stores featured within the system (see figure 1-4). In addition the use of placing the lines from within each pictogram within the shop windows allows the system to become full circle as the audience realise the shape of the pictograms on arrival (figure 4-7) Overall the aesthetic of the system works well through the use of the curved lines to represent the shops which links to the three straight lines used to represent the festival within the handout. The analysis of peers work as well as existing wayfinding systems has informed my own practice as it has allowed me to identify how I can link the system together more effectively by using the super graphics on the windows of the shops allowing the system to be realised once the user reaches their destination. However despite the successes of the system there is the potential for users to get lost due to limited use of direction and arrows which have purposefully been left out to create a more subjective system, however this may make it difficult for the audience to navigate from the festival to each placard. Upon reflection this could be replicated by including a map within the handout. In addition the line within the pictograms themselves could be mad thicker as they where thinner than expected when cut out of vinyl. The use of thicker lines would create a more visible pictogram from a far. Overall the system has worked successfully to address the issue of connecting Leeds Print Festival to independent shops and effectively engages the audience. 

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