Porti Tourism Signs Design Considerations

Comprehensive - The plan links access to all the various points of interest in one all encompassing and cohesive structure. Where traditionally signs were added for one venue at a time, and then in an inconsistent manner, this plan takes all in view at the same time.

Structured – Signage is organised in a hierarchy with the four main clusters of activity identified as the Lake Grounds, the Esplanade, the Marina, and the High Street Shops. These destinations are identified when visitors first enter the area, and as they are led closer to the destinations, they are presented with signs pointing to particular points of interest within these areas.

Some points that are not located in the four main areas are sign posted separately. Their signs are placed in proximity to the main areas, so that directions can be given relative to the main areas. For example a visitor could be instructed to follow the signs to the Esplanade until they see a further sign directing them to the Golf Course.

Relevance – Considerable thought and discussion was given to preparing an all-inclusive list of items pertinent to visitors and incorporating them in the routing.

Once a visitor passes the first brown sign on entering the area, they can ignore the clutter of white and coloured signs and just concentrate on brown signs to find their destination. All the directions they need are included on brown signs.

Consistency – A standard name was decided for every point of interest, and used consistently on all signs. Visitors would not be expected to trace their route through a variation of names as if on a mystery hunt.

Simplicity – Signboards were restricted to the bare minimum of listings, with a maximum of five line items being considered optimum. Names were shortened to their briefest form.

Non-Ambiguous – Consideration was given to possible confusion by ambiguous names. Portishead has two swimming pools, an indoor pool at the Leisure Centre and an Open Air Pool next to the Lake Grounds. Signs simply pointing to Swimming Pool could confuse visitors and cause them to arrive at the wrong destination.

Continuity – Once a visitor picks up a trail following the brown signs, they will be led through every turning to their destination. Nothing is more frustrating than following a series of signs through an unfamiliar town only to find that you have been left at a junction without a clue as to which way to turn, or to drive for miles and find you missed an unmarked turning. At best it gives an impression of the town being inconsiderate.