Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
• Information when and where you need it: The system must be user-centred so as to
provide wayfinding information at key points along the way. Information should be
available both while planning a trip and while conducting it.
• Better awareness of the city's riches: A broad family of elements provides visitors
and residents alike the confidence to wander and explore.
• City-wide standards, allowing for local identity: The elements of the system must
convey a single image of a unified city program, yet have the flexibility to respond
to varying conditions throughout the city.
The first big idea put forward was the creation of a brand. A strong brand identity
across all applications would bring the family of wayfinding elements together. It
would identify the official city scheme and help to build recognition and confidence
in the system. At the helm should be, 'A symbol that can build trust in the system,
and should be instantly recognizable, iconic and memorable.' With so many elements
proposed and necessary in the NYC system it was essential to have an over-arching
brand to unify them.
The overall framework for 'I Walk New York' includes a comprehensive range of
elements. The elements 'build on the existing city infrastructure and integrate with
known recognizable information architecture'. Each element is described and has a
function attached. The Brand 'I Walk New York' would have a typographic style at-
tached to it, a typeface or faces designated for specific purposes, a colour scheme and
a library of graphic elements to assist in the creation of a strong and cohesive visual
identity. This would be carried across all final communication platforms.
The information architecture has to be considered carefully, as content will differ
across the elements of the scheme, depending on the function identified for the spe-
cific element (a directional street sign requires a different amount of content to a wall-
size map, or a handheld GPS, website or smartphone app). As with all information
design, there needs to be a clear hierarchy established in line with the function of the
element.
The strategy also moved the system beyond the streets of NYC; airports and train and
bus stations are described as 'key points of entry' to the city and 'present an oppor-
tunity to inform the visitor about New York's offerings prior to, or at the start of their
journey.'
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