Signs are important to people who are unfamiliar with their surroundings. They are to provide information. They can inform the user of a route, a hazard, or a facility. Signs also communicate an identity for the building or environment they serve. Signage contributes greatly to the aesthetics and first impression of a building. Signs must be clear, concise, and consistent.

A signage system also increases person‟s awareness of their surroundings and aids orientation within the environment. The location of signs should ideally be part of the process of planning the building and environment. A good and successful sign system should minimize anxiety and confusion. It must be easy to understand and not place Persons with Disabilities at a disadvantage. Universal signage cuts across the regional/cultural and language barriers as even a common lay man can understand the symbols and pictograms.

People need clear information about the purpose and layout of spaces to maintain a sense of direction and independent use of a building. Often visual and tactile information is reinforced by audible information. Information may take the form of visual information (e.g. signs, notice boards), audible information (e.g. public address and security systems, induction loops, telephones, and infrared devices), or tactile information (e.g. signs with embossed lettering or Braille).

The effectiveness of information on the use of a building is determined by:

1. the location, accessibility, layout and height of signs;
2. the size of lettering, symbols and their reading distances;
3. the use of tactile letters and symbols;
4. visual contrast and lighting;
5. the finished surfaces of materials used for signs and symbols;
6. the simultaneous use of audible cues;
7. integration with any other communication systems.

1. Signage Provisions
2. Types of Signages
3. Location
4. Universal Signage