Sometimes two facts come together for an unexpected conclusion. First, I’ve noticed that Construction Supervisors typically know their building project better than almost anyone else by the time it’s completed. All that time spent on site and diving into details  makes the project so familiar to the Construction Supervisor. Next, most facilities, whether churches, schools, factories, parking garages or whatever, do a lousy job on signage. Few facilities allow the uninitiated person to enter and easily find their way around. For some reason, this is a pet peeve of mine.

I try to help Owners think about how user’s will navigate through their facility and the best ways to help them find their way. Often I help the Owner with thinking through the signage. I think many Construction Supervisors could further add value on a Project by helping the Owner in this way. Since almost no one knows the project better than the Construction Supervisor and since signage usually gets done last, and as an afterthought, the Construction Supervisor has an opportunity here.

I know some Architects and Owners won’t want your help. So be it. But for those who do, I encourage you to jump in there and add more value. The more the Owner sees your value (and communicates it both to your boss and others) the more opportunities you have to better yourself. Remember the Secret of Success.

I saw some excellent sign graphics for a parking garage that got me started on this topic. Some of the photos from the site are below.

If you have any examples of particularly good, or bad, signage please send them to me. One of my goals for this site is to share concepts and ideas in a way that benefits us all.