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Innovadores locales reciben $75 000 para combatir las disparidades sanitarias en la comunidad

DALLAS, 7 de noviembre de 2024 – Históricamente, las personas de color de comunidades con escasos recursos han tenido menos acceso a las necesidades más básicas, como alimentos saludables, aire limpio y agua potable, educación de calidad, empleo,...




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Los New York Jets de la NFL suman métodos para salvar vidas a la cadena de supervivencia en 12 escuelas

NEW YORK, 7 de noviembre de 2024 — La American Heart Association (la Asociación Americana del Corazón) y los New York Jets reunieron a representantes de 12 escuelas locales para realizar un entrenamiento de reanimación cardiopulmonar (RCP) y...




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Hablemos de sexo: los pacientes cardíacos quieren recibir orientación por parte de los profesionales de la salud

Puntos destacados de la investigación: Una pequeña encuesta de adultos de entre 30 y 89 años (de una edad promedio de 65 años) en Suecia que tienen afecciones cardíacas determinó que existe una diferencia significativa entre la información sobre salud ...




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El nivel socioeconómico durante el embarazo temprano puede desempeñar un papel importante en la salud cardíaca futura

Puntos destacados de la investigación: El nivel socioeconómico de las madres primerizas en el embarazo temprano puede afectar su salud cardiovascular hasta siete años después. El nivel socioeconómico —nivel educativo, nivel de ingresos, estado del ...




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La supervivencia al paro cardíaco mejoró desde que decreció la pandemia de COVID-19, aún es menor que en años anteriores

Este comunicado de prensa contiene información actualizada y datos que no están incluidos en el resumen. Puntos destacados de la investigación: Las tasas de supervivencia a los paros cardíacos extrahospitalarios en los EE. UU. disminuyeron de manera ...




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Los medicamentos GLP-1 y SGLT2 pueden reducir el riesgo de que los supervivientes de un derrame cerebral sufran un ataque cardíaco o un derrame cerebral en el futuro

Puntos destacados de la investigación: En un análisis de más de 7000 supervivientes de un derrame cerebral, aquellos que tomaban un agonista del receptor del GLP1 o un medicamento inhibidor del SGLT2 tuvieron un menor riesgo posterior de sufrir un...




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Socioeconomic status during early pregnancy may play a large role in future heart health

Research Highlights: The socioeconomic status of first-time moms in early pregnancy may affect their cardiovascular health up to seven years later. Socioeconomic status — education level, income level, health insurance status and health literacy — of ...




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Cardiac arrest survival improved since COVID-19 pandemic waned, still lower than prior years

This news release contains updated information and data not included in the abstract. Research Highlights: U.S. survival rates from out-of-hospital cardiac arrests fell significantly at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and only slightly ...




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Let’s talk about sex: Heart patients want guidance from health care professionals

Research Highlights: A small survey of adults aged 30 to 89 (average age of 65) in Sweden who have heart conditions found that there is a significant difference between the sexual health information they seek and what is provided to them by their ...




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Heart disease more common in past redlined areas linked to limited access to healthy foods

Research Highlights: Heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity were more common and linked to reduced access to healthy food among people who lived in neighborhoods previously subjected to structural racism-based policies that ...




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Greater Washington Region Heart Walk brings thousands to the National Mall to raise $2 million

Washington, DC, November 2, 2024 – Thousands of survivors, business leaders and medical professionals convened for the annual Greater Washington Heart Walk at the National Mall. Representing more than 500 teams, 84 companies and around 10,000 walkers,...




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Updated guidance reaffirms CPR with breaths essential for cardiac arrest following drowning

Updated Guideline Highlights: The American Heart Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics update recommendations for untrained lay rescuers and trained rescuers resuscitating adults and children who have drowned. One important update is the ...




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Collier County Heart Walk raises $360,000, welcomes over 3,000 walkers

Estero, Fla., Nov. 12, 2024 —The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, hosted the 2024 Collier Heart Walk at Cambier Park on Saturday, November 2, raising over $360,000 to help...




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Inscríbase ahora: Las alumnas de secundarias locales explorarán la educación y las carreras STEM en una experiencia interactiva

PORTAGE COUNTY, 4 de noviembre de 2024 — Los directores ejecutivos, educadores y padres de todo el mundo saben que formar la próxima generación de mujeres científicas, médicas e inventoras es un paso fundamental para establecer su futuro, así como el...




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La American Heart Association proporciona kits comunitarios para medición de la presión arterial y monitores en las ubicaciones de la biblioteca Stark Library

STARK COUNTY, 28 DE OCTUBRE DE 2024 – La American Heart Association (la Asociación Americana del Corazón), que es la principal organización sin ánimo de lucro del mundo dedicada a la salud del corazón y el cerebro para todos, cuenta ahora con centros de...




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Early detection, intensive treatment critical for high-risk patients with Kawasaki Disease

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Primary care professionals key to helping people achieve & maintain heart health

Statement Highlights: A new scientific statement outlines the role of primary care professionals in helping their patients achieve Life's Essential 8, the key measures for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health defined by the American Heart ...




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Photo Manipulate a Mystical Tribal Warrior

In today's tutorial you'll be brushing up on your photo manipulation skills, by creating a mystical tribal warrior. This tutorial is packed full of useful techniques, from blending tactics, to digital painting, lighting, layout sketching and much more.




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Learn How to Illustrate a Realistic Rocketship in Photoshop

In this tutorial, we will create a retro styled rocket in Photoshop. We will explore the importance of details in creating a complex illustration, as well as how to create realistic surfaces.




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Photo Manipulate a Dark, Emotional Fallen Angel Scene

In this tutorial I'll show you how to create a dark and emotional fallen angel scene using a variety of photo manipulation techniques. You'll work with blending techniques, adjusting colour, practice retouching, painting and more.




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My New Project: A Curated, Quality New Marketplace for Designers

Today I have a really exciting update, sharing exactly what I've been working on for the past year. At my other website Design Cuts, we've just launched the most curated, high quality marketplace anywhere for designers just like you!




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Designing Clarity 03 – Did Apple just Disrupt Healthcare?

Did Apple just disrupt Healthcare?  More specifically, Health Tech? I would say Healthcare is one of those industries ripe for innovation disruption.  It is a mature industry lead by large slow-moving organisations, that have been around forever.  They have built their equivalent of the Great...

The post Designing Clarity 03 – Did Apple just Disrupt Healthcare? appeared first on Design Sojourn. Please click above if you cannot see this post.




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Lens International Design Conference 2022 Keynote: Redesigning Design

I am honoured to be invited by Shih Chien University College of Design to give a keynote speech during their Lens International Design Conference 2022 on January 7th 2022.   In the conference The Lens, design is interpreted as a multi-perspective lens that transforms all elements...

The post Lens International Design Conference 2022 Keynote: Redesigning Design appeared first on Design Sojourn. Please click above if you cannot see this post.




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Design Thinking: A Catalyst for Business Growth

Running a business is widely recognized as challenging, with the average startup lasting only about five years. While starting a business might seem straightforward, maintaining it proves to be the true test, a reality faced even by large multinational corporations.   Consider this: nearly 90%...

The post Design Thinking: A Catalyst for Business Growth appeared first on Design Sojourn. Please click above if you cannot see this post.




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Why Technology Alone Can’t Solve Problems: The Importance of Human-Centred Design

In an era where technology is rapidly advancing, it is tempting to view it as a universal remedy for a myriad of challenges. However, while technology has immense potential, it cannot solve problems by itself. The effectiveness of technology as a solution is influenced by...

The post Why Technology Alone Can’t Solve Problems: The Importance of Human-Centred Design appeared first on Design Sojourn. Please click above if you cannot see this post.




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Inspiration: Annual Report Designs

An annual report is a document a company presents at Annual General Meeting for approval by its shareholders, or a charitable organization presents its trustees.

1. Featured showcase: IMC Annual Report

For IMC, Fitzroy designed a unique annual report. IMC – a renowned derivative trading house with over 500 employees worldwide – is an active trader in almost every stock market in the world. They constantly have to deal with stock exhanges’ information and its ever changing highs and lows.

In the annual report, this information is translated in a unique way by showing in 24 pages the 24 hours of a trading day. Which stock exhange opens and which one closes; what information is relevant. By using the green (increase) and red (decline) filters, the data of a hectic trading day are pushed to the background, so that only IMC’s active fields (the stock markets and the arrows) remain visible.

A final detail: based on GMT the stock exchanges trading at night are displayed in blue, while the ones trading during the day are displayed in yellow.

Out of the box designs

The following design examples are great inspiration for out of the box thinking.

2. Agency: Kuhlmann Leavitt

This impactful piece captures the reader with exquisite black and white photography and classic yet whimsical typography customized to each shot. - Visit the agency Kuhlmann Leavitt popup: yes for more information and photos

3. Agency: Bruketa Zinic

Well Done: a food company annual report that has to be cooked first. Croatian creative agency Bruketa & Zinić have designed an annual report for food company Podravka that has to be baked in an oven before it can be read. - Visit the design company Bruketa Zinic popup:yes - See this great full pictured article popup:yes about this exceptional annual report.

4. Agency: Migreyes

Unique annual report that highlights Konami’s goal to target beyond Japan. - Visit the detailed information about Konami’s Annual Report at Migreyes popup:yes

5. Feltron

A unique layout and information presenting annual report from Feltron. - Take a look at the website for more photos and screenshots of Feltron’s Annual Report popup:yes

Simply beautiful Annual Report Design

Just beautiful annual report design with great color usage, typography and photo use.

6. British Council Annual Report

Navig8 won in a bid against the British Council’s prestigious list of suppliers to design and print manage their annual report. - Visit the Navig8 popup:yes website for more information.

7. Airtricity Annual Report

Great design, creative view on getting numbers to look attractive. The photos and quotes included in this annual report are great designed. - Take a look at the agency website popup:yes for more information.

8. Catalyst Recruitment

Our clients will no doubt have a clearer understanding of the diversity of our business and specialist areas and we would have no hesitation in recommending Lemonade to other customers due to their professional service, follow through and innovative creative design. - Visit the website Lemonade Agency popup:yes for more information about this fabulous annual report.

9. Agency Methodologie

Univar NV is one of the world’s leading independent distributors of industrial chemicals and providers of related specialty services, operating throughout North America and Europe. Designed by Methodologie, an award winning design agency with a creative view on annual reporting. - Visit the website Methodologie popup:yes for more information and their portfolio.

10. Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center Annual Report

This annual design is designed with many photos and good typography usage. This serious subject is presented in a great designed annual report. - Visit the website and download the completePDF annual report popup:yes.

11. Stedelijk Museum Jaarverslag

The design Agency Deel Drie designed the annual report for Het Stedelijk museum Amsterdam, with large black/white headlines combined with colorful photos this is great work. - Visit the website and download popup:yes the complete annual report for Het Stedelijk Musuem.

12. Geest Annual Report

Designed by Navyblue, the Geest annual report has won the ProShare Award for Best Annual Report for Private Investors (FTSE 500) for an unprecedented five years in succession. - Visit the agency website popup:yes for more information

13. Agency Hirshorn Zuckerman Design Group

Legacy’s campaigns are designed to engage, and this report had to do the same. That strong cover statement—“The Story of the Year”—leads the reader into a variety of campaign voices and intimate portraits backed by strong colors. - Visit the website from Hirshorn Zuckerman Design Group popup:yes for more information.

14. Agency SamataMason

For Strategic Hotels and Resorts SamataMason designed a wonderful paper sculptor and the typography. - Visit the website from SamataMason popup:yes for more information.

15. Agency Sibley/Peteet Design Austin

For Tropical Sportswear Sibley/Peteet Design Austin created a beautiful crafted annual report, titled “The Perfect Pair”, the front cover communicates the title on a hang tag on the back pocket of a pair of khakis. - See the website popup:yes for more information and examples.

16. BNP Paribas Annual Report

BNP Paribas Assurance develops and markets savings, protection and property & casualty insurance products in 42 countries under two brands, those brand are financially reported in this nice designed annual report. - Visit the website BNP Paribas popup:yes for a full PDF version of the Annual Report 2006 and 2007.

17. The Equality Authority

An attractive and innovative document that reaches out and communicates very effectively with the very diverse audience we strive to serve. - Visit the website popup:yes for more information and a full PDF download.

18. Annual Report Transparency International 2006

Transparency International’s Annual Report 2006 showcases last year’s successes for the anti-corruption movement, as well as innovation in measurement tools, targeted advocacy work and sector-specific projects from TI chapters. - Visit the website Transparency popup:yes to download the full PDF version.

19. Overall design tips for Annual Report Design

A well-written and designed annual report is a must to reinforce a hard won reputation. Stakeholders need to be assured the organisation is not in the business of cutting corners or taking the easy way out - Visit the website popup:yes for more tips about annual reporting design.

Worth mentioning

_20. Delta Lloyd Jaarverslag, the complete annual report viewable as a website or to download from the website.
_21. Unilever Jaarverslag, download the complete PDF version from the website.
_22.Koninklijke Ahold Jaarverslag, download the complete PDF version from the Ahold website.
_23.IBM Annual reporting, available from 1994 to 2007, download the complete PDF versions from the website.
_24. IMF Annual report, available from 1996 to 2007, download the complete PDF versions from the website.
_25. A complete huide for annual reports, visit the website AnnualReport.com for additional information.
_26. StepInside, a design related website with top 100 company’s and annual reporting, see the website for additional information.




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Arial is everywhere

Arial, a contemporary sans serif typeface by Robin Nicholas and Patricia Saunders designed for Monotype in 1982. If you are familiar with a computer you must know Arial, one the most used “standard” typefaces for “normal” computer usage.

Arial

Most professional designers and typophiles think of Arial as a copied typeface from Helvetica and while reading the The Scourge of Arial by Mark Simonson Studio I have realized this is in fact a true story.

The typeface became free with the release of Windows 3.1, which was a sales hit and Arial quickly gained spread around the globe. The main reason why Microsoft chose Arial as standard typeface is because of the license fee from the original Helvectia typeface by the Haas Foundry was too high. Missed change to educate the world about the wonderful Grotesk family.

Arial vs Helvetica

There are several glyps of the typefaces similar and some of them are different. Due the similarity Arial is often (unfortunately) mistaken for Helvetica, the differences between these two typefaces is explained in an article on iLT, both typefaces are shown next to each other making it easier to recognize.

Today Arial belongs to Monotype:

Arial is an extremely versatile family of typefaces which can be used with equal success for text setting in reports, presentations, magazines etc, and for display use in newspapers, advertising and promotions.

Arial is everywhere!

Passing by an advertisement by a Dutch website about flight tickets, noticed the Arial Black at the top, when visiting the website also all other text is designed using Arial.

Advertisement sign

Driving on the highway when I spotted the Arial here in this advertisement, it seems to be an German clothing company using Arial for their logo, the payoff of Gerry Weber seems to be in a Futura.

Thai cuisine

Love the Thai cuisine and went to this small restaurant in Amsterdam, the window signs and menu is done using the type Arial Black.

Highway truck

Another highway shot taking while driving… Here is a clear usage of Arial Black italic for the logo and text.

Mirabeau*

A large Dutch internet company is using Arial for the illuminated signs, at first I was mislead, Mirabeau* using Arial? I only really recognized it by the letter “R”, visiting the website it seems they have changed the typeface of the logo.

Clearing out the garage

Throwing away old stuff… And found a small travel raincoat. Used typeface Arial Black.

Swarzkopf

Say again… Swarzkopf is using Arial? My wife bought something to color hair and while brushing my teeth I couldn’t believe my eyes. Quickly went to the store and yes… Swarzkopf is using Arial!

Tommy Hillfiger

Yet another large company is using Arial, this time I found a print on my wife her shoebox all lettering is using the typeface Arial.

Kaldi Koffie

This is actually one of the few brand where they consistently use Arial for all their visual communications. This Dutch Coffee shop uses Arial for their logo, text and shopping branding.

Vehicle signage

Waiting for the light to turn green, just had enough time to take this photo. This van has some lettering done using typeface Arial.

Hotel signs

Went skiing about two weeks ago and never have I seen that much usage of Arial. Here the hotel used Arial for the name of the hotel and the text.

Getting up the mountains

Most of the ski lift in this area (Ischl, Austria) uses Arial as typeface for the name of the ski lift.

Sun terras

Unfortunately we didn’t have a sunny weather, but when there is you can visit the sun terras. On the doors is placed with etch foil the text “Sonnenterrasse” in German language.

Ski rental

This shop used Arial for all the visual communication, not to mention that in this small village there where three of these shops… Arial is everywhere!

DigiD

Getting back and filling out some forms for the government, in Holland there are ways to fill out forms using a digital signature, called DigiD. I noticed the usage of Arial at the top of this letter. Hopefully this will change towards to new brand identity of the Dutch government.

UPS

The packages send using UPS are using Arial on their sticker, all information is printed using Arial.

For sale sign

Due the credit crisis many houses are for sale in Amsterdam, the broker puts op V-shape signs with the information “For Sale”, this broker also uses Arial Black for their name.

Design shop

Everyday I drive pass by this furniture shop in Amsterdam, the sell luxury design furniture, but all the typeface use is Arial Black.

Plummer company

This is a large pluming company is Amsterdam, they use Arial Black for their logo and other forms of visual communication.

Bike bag

Walking down the streets and spotted this printed bike bag which they use to distribute flyers, typeface used Arial.

License plate holder

Spotted this one many, many, many times. A license plate holder for Dutch cars, most of them use Arial to display the name of the garage.

Vehicle signs

This plummer company uses Arial for their logo and text, designed with icons.

Local coffee bar

This local cafe uses Arial Black for their logo on the window, also the opening hours and other text is displayed in Arial.

Arial is everywhere

Look around and you'll spot Arial around you! Arial is everyyyyyyywhere!!




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Architectural signage

This article is a show case of the relationship between architecture and graphic design. In fact, surprisingly few architects use typographical elements in their design. For this overview of projects that do make good use of lettering, I’ve probably browsed through more than thousand Architectural Designs. Below you’ll find ten buildings on integrated architectural lettering and signage

I can only guess about the reason why architects make so little use of typhographical elements on their buildings. The main reason will be that the building design doesn’t need it. Most buildings can make their function clear without the use of signage on the façade. As you will find on the buildings listed below, architects used the signage to show the name of the building to the world; there is no building to be found with its function printed on it. The function is supposed to be clear.

A famous architect once stated: ‘form follows function’. That’s why you know what the particular function of a building is. Architects follow their mantra.

Café de Unie (The Union), Rotterdam, The Netherlands

One of the first uses of typographic lettering in architecture is the façade of the café ‘De Unie’. This building was completed in 1925, and has the looks of a Mondriaan painting. From the outside the building looks very much like the front cover of the design magazine ‘De Stijl’ (The Style). This similarity is no coincidence; the architect was a member of the Style movement. Members from various disciplines, like architects, graphic designers and interior designers had a strong influence on each other.

You can find this building near Rotterdam central station. It was destroyed during the second world war and has been rebuild in 1985, 500 meters from its original place.

Bauhaus, Dessau, Germany

At art school, everyone learns about Walter Gropius and his Bauhaus movement. The Bauhaus has been very influential in architecture and other disciplines of art. This modernist building was build in 1926 and has a beautiful lettering on its front façade.

Seattle Art Museum, U.S.A.

In 1991, Pritzker Prize winner Robert Venturi designed the Seattle art museum. To make sure no other use will ever be made of the building, ‘Seattle Art Museum’ has been carved into the front façade.

Minnaert building

The Minnaert building on the campus of Utrecht University has been named after the Belgian astronomer Marcel Minnaert. The architectural firm Neutelings Rietdijk has made very original use of huge letters to give the building its name. The columns that carry the upper levels are integrated within the letters.

Terror Háza múzeum / House of Terror museum

House of Terror is a museum located at Andrássy út 60 in Budapest, Hungary. Designed by architects János Sándor and Kálmán Újszászy.

The reconstruction turned the exterior of the building into somewhat of a monument; the black exterior structure (consisting of the decorative entablature, the blade walls, and the granite sidewalk) provides a frame for the museum, making it stand out in sharp contrast to the other buildings on Andrássy Avenue. Wikipedia.

City Museum Melbourne, Australia

Designed by Garry Emery, Mark Janetzki and Ben Kluger for the City Museum Melbourne. This large folded monumental sign draws the attention to the museum and gives direction to the entrance.

Eureka Tower Carpark

Also designed by the Emery Studio Melbourne, big painted letters on the walls and floor, looking directly the letters are distored but standing in a right position the letters can be read perfectly. Fabulously done artwork by Axel Peemoeller.

LAX

One of the large LAX signs that greet visitors to Los Angeles International Airport. This sign is at the Century Boulevard entrance to the airport.

Art school made me do this

A fun project by Rutger de vries (Perongeluk) who used this old building to express his design ideas. It was doomed to demolition, the former nursing home in Utrecht (The Netherlands). After the elderly residents had been relocated, it had served as a student residence for another six years, but now it stood empty. Rutger de Vries says: “My work is transitory in nature; in fact I prefer to present it in places that have almost ceased to exist, where it can contrast with the setting“

Library of Alexandria, Egypt

Snøhetta is a Norwegian architectural firm with a very beautiful website. The buildings they design are fine too. Take for example the library in Alexandria, a huge cylinder covered with concrete plating. On those plates you can see all kinds of typographical elements in non western languages, mostly hieroglyphs.

This is a guest post by Frank van Leersum, a Dutch student architecture who likes to write about architecture and books. Visit his Dutch weblog Aureon.




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Essential Design Principles for Hospital Wayfinding [2023]

Wayfinding

Finding your way in a hospital setting can be tricky. The stress of finding a department or destination in a (unfamiliar) building can a challenging experience.

What is there was a way to make finding your way in a hospital easier? This is where design discipline wayfinding comes into play and has the potential to improve the patient experience.

Wayfinding is a multidisciplinary design field that combines principles of cognitive psychology and human behavior for a better understanding of the surroundings.

For hospitals, wayfinding aims to address the following critical issues:

  • How can we make it improve wayfinding for patients?
  • Which design principles can assist to enhance the visitors experience?
  • How can we create an accessible environment for all users, including people with disabilities?

In this article we will explore the importance of wayfinding principles in hospitals. The challenges we face along the way and the innovative solutions that will improve the way patients navigate healthcare settings.

By exploring the role of both traditional and digital wayfinding tools, we will highlight the potential of well-designed wayfinding to improve wayfinding in hospitals. The goal is an improved patient experience and ultimately to contribute to reduced stress when visiting a hospital.

The challenges of hospital signage

Orienting and navigating a hospital environment can be challenging for patients, visitors and even medical staff. With wayfinding research we can look through the 'eyes' of the users and understand the bottlenecks and success factors of effective wayfinding.

In this chapter we explore the main challenges of signage and take a closer look at why these problems can arise.

A. Complexity of buildings

Signage 'shows' people the way in buildings and environments. A hospital building is usually a large building with several floors, wings and departments. A hospital can have more than 100 different departments, from Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Surgery, Internal Medicine to Orthopedics, Radiology and Oncology. This can include many subspecialties.
A hospital usually consists of many departments and specialists, located throughout the hospital building, connected by squares and corridors.

Why can a hospital building have a complicated or confusing layout?

  • Due to expansion and renovations, buildings can be adapted over time. Expansion of wings and/or, for example, an attached building can lead to a confusing layout.
  • Due to functional requirements of departments, part of the hospital may not be accessible. As a result, to reach a certain department, you can get there via a detour.

How does (building) complexity affect patients and visitors?

  • A complicated layout brings increased stress. Can I find the department? Am I on time?
  • Difficulty finding departments. Where is department xx? How do I get to the department?

Why are hospital environments naturally stressful?

  • Due to health problems and emotional nature, a hospital can be experienced as stressful. What do I have? Can the doctor help me?
  • Due to time-bound appointments and procedures in a hospital. Am I on time? Where is...?

How does this stress affect signage?

  • Due to increased stress, people (usually) have a reduced ability to process information. Where should I look?
  • Due to an increased reliance on intuitive references. How does the signage work?

What are the unique signage challenges that different users face?

  • Patients, visitors are not familiar with the layout of the building. Where's what?
  • Patients, visitors have cognitive or physical limitations. May have difficulty processing the information.
  • Non-native speakers and/or have difficulty reading the signage.

Why is it important to consider user needs when designing signage?

  • Ensuring accessibility and inclusiveness principles, design-for-all concept.
  • Reduce the risk of disorientation
  • On time for an appointment
  • Consistent information provision towards a patient and visitor gives peace of mind in orienting and navigating in an (unfamiliar) environment.

Why can it be difficult to maintain consistency in hospital signage systems?

  • Due to the variety of systems and information provision around patient information.
  • Information such as on the website, call letter, reception desk, ticket, referral letter and signage must be consistent for a clear picture towards the patient, visitor.

By examining these challenges in wayfinding research, we understand the user and thereby identify bottlenecks and success factors.

Wayfinding strategy for hospitals

In this chapter we discuss different ways of referring that can help improve orientation and navigation in the hospital. By implementing these strategies, hospitals become more user-friendly and accessible, reducing the stress associated with navigating healthcare facilities.

  1. Well-thought-out signage
    This includes clear, concise, and easy-to-understand signage at key decision points, such as at entrances, hallways, elevators, stairways, and wards. Ensure consistency in design, colors and typography for clear communication.

Example: A hospital can create a wing layout for different departments such as A, B, C, D, etc. making it easier for users to track their destination.

  1. Landmarks and Visual Recognition Points:
    Including landmarks and visual identifiers in the hospital environment can aid orientation and make it easier for users to remember the route.

Example: Placing distinctive artwork, architectural features or color schemes as landmarks in the hospital.

  1. Digital Wayfinding:
    Digital wayfinding, such as interactive kiosks, mobile apps and touchscreens, can provide real-time information and personalized directions to help users navigate the hospital more easily.

Example: Digital screens in the hospital for displaying relevant information for users. Where am I? Where can I find department xx? And how do I get there?

  1. Staff training and support:
    Ensuring that medical staff and employees are well aware of the signage system and tone-of-voice towards patients and visitors.

Example: A hospital could offer training sessions to employees to familiarize them with the signage and teach them how to effectively help visitors navigate the hospital.

  1. Inclusive Design and Accessibility:
    Hospitals should be accessible to everyone, including people with reduced mobility, the visually impaired or the hearing impaired.

Ensure that (digital) signage takes these groups into account by using clear, high-contrast fonts, tactile elements, Braille and audio signals where appropriate.

Example: Tactile markings on the floor or braille signs assist to the help the visually impaired to navigate the building and find the right department.

By implementing these signage strategies and addressing bottlenecks and success factors, healthcare facilities can significantly improve the user experience of patients, visitors and staff. This leads to less stress, increased satisfaction and ultimately better healthcare outcomes.

Digital wayfinding in hospitals

Digitization in signage is important for improving the overall user experience in a hospital. Digital tools provide real-time information, personalized routes and additional resources to assist patients and visitors in navigating complex hospital environments.

In this chapter we discuss examples and use cases for digital wayfinding.

  1. Real Time Information:
    Digital signage can provide real-time information and updates about, for example, waiting times, routes and where you are in a hospital.

Example: Digital information signs can display the current waiting times for departments and/or other hospital services.

  1. Integration with Social Media and Online Communication:
    A social media integration platform to assist patients and visitors plan their visit, receive (route) information and share feedback.

Example: A hospital can implement a (AI) chatbot to assist users for navigating questions, ask for directions, and for instance scheduling appointments.

  1. Digital Screens:
    Interactive screens can provide patients with real-time information about their destination, directions and additional services such as finding a nearby restroom or coffee corner.

Example: A hospital can place interactive screens or a kiosk at the entrance and install it on every floor, where visitors can receive personalized route information.

  1. Mobile Information :
    Show relevant information on digitale signage screens, such as routes and destinations in the hospital. Think about including a "you are here" on a map and/or use directory signs for an overview of departments.

Example: A hospital can display the information in a mobile environment, which is linked to the hospital's website.

  1. Augmented Reality (AR) Signage:
    AR technology could overlay digital information in the real environment, such as arrows and text, using a smartphone's camera.

Example: An overlay that guides users using digital cues that overlap with the real environment.

The implementation of digital signage in hospitals creates an integrated patient experience and approach. The starting point is to use technology for a more personalized route and real-time updates, resulting in an improved user experience.

Wayfinding scenarios

In this chapter we discuss different scenarios for referring users in a hospital building. A new or existing hospital building usually has an entrance, exit, atrium, floors, corridors and wards. Destinations in a hospital can be 'coded' by using a wayfinding strategy. By means of a reference key it is possible to easily reach destinations. Below are a few examples:

  1. Route numbers
    Organizing the hospital with route numbers. This means that each destination gets a route number. Patients, visitors use the route number to reach a destination. Route numbers can be ascending or linked to, for example, a floor.

Example: Route 142, where 1 stands for floor 1 and 42 is the sequential number. This way you can always find where you are in a hospital.

  1. Wing layout
    With wing layouts, lift points such as elevators or stairs are classified with a name or letters. For example A, B, C, D, etc. With wing layouts, the letters are usually followed by a number, which stands for the floor.

Example: C2, where C stands for the wing and 3 for the floor. An addition of a number can indicate even further specifications, such as C2-12. Where, for example, 12 is the waiting area on wing C floor 2.

  1. User-friendly (digital) additions
    This scenario adds tactile and auditory information to wayfinding scenarios for reaching foreign speaking people or for people who have difficulty walking or have reduced vision capacity.

Testing the wayfinding scenarios is important to gain feedback from users. A scenario is building, process and user-related. Implementing a clear and concise wayfinding scenario improves an intuitive way finding destinations in a hospital.

Main Takeaway Explanation
Importance of wayfinding principles An integrated approach in wayfinding contributes to the improvement of routing and hospital experience.
Challenges in hospital signage Hospitals face challenges due to the (complex) layout, time-sensitive and emotional nature of visits, and various user needs.
Wayfinding strategy An effective wayfinding strategy includes clear signage, landmarks, digital tools, and staff training focused on the (end) user.
Digital wayfinding solutions Digital wayfinding solutions, such as real-time information, integration with social media, digital screens, mobile apps, and AR, can enhance the overall user experience.
Wayfinding scenarios Different wayfinding scenarios, such as route numbers, wing layouts, and user-friendly digital additions, can be deployed to improve the patient journey in hospitals.

Conclusion

A wayfinding design strategy plays an important role in improving the user experience in a hospital.

Implementing a well-thought-out wayfinding strategy and scenarios, users can orientate and navigate more easily. The starting point is to improve the user experience, which contributes to a positive image of the hospital.

The roll-out of both fixed and digital wayfinding tools, such as signage and digital displays, can help provide an integrated approach and experience tailored to users' requirements and needs.

In conclusion, a wayfinding design and strategy are indispensable for creating an accessible, safe and user-friendly environment in hospitals. It is vital that hospitals and wayfinding design studios work together to implement effective solutions that help patients, visitors and staff navigate and feel comfortable in these complex environments.



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More on hospital wayfinding, contact us →



FAQ


Why is wayfinding important in hospitals?

Wayfinding is an integrated approach for orienting and navigating in buildings, aimed at the (end) user. It provides an easy way to navigate, reduces stress and saves time.

What is a wayfinding design?

Signage is a physical or digital element which shows wayfinding information or a map. Multiple signs creates an information network for people to understand and navigate places, building or area.

What is a wayfinding strategy?

A wayfinding strategy involves creating an effective and user-friendly wayfinding system to help people navigate and orient themselves in complex environments such as hospitals.

How does wayfinding work in hospitals?

Hospital wayfinding uses both fixed and digital signage to provide an integrated experience tailored to users' needs and desires.

What are some challenges in implementing wayfinding in hospitals?

Some challenges in implementing wayfinding in hospitals include dealing with complex and changing building structures, ensuring accessibility for all users, and ensuring consistency and accuracy in the information provided.

Who is wayfinding for?

Wayfinding design is intended for everyone entering a hospital, including patients, visitors and staff. It helps them navigate the hospital more easily and improves their overall experience.




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The hidden costs of getting lost in a Hospital

Why people get lost

Navigating through hospitals can be a challenging task and stressful experience for patients, visitors, and even staff. With the increasing complexity of hospital layouts and diverse user needs, there is a growing demand for effective and accessible wayfinding solutions.

Misinformation and not up-to-date information are among the most common issues why people get lost. The lack of quality information across platforms allows for disorientation, a feeling of getting lost, and not knowing which source to trust. Some of the issues include:

  • Getting lost, high stress levels
  • Not on time for an appointment
  • Unable to orientate/navigate
  • Information not correct/up-to-date
  • No holistic wayfinding approach

Costs of Getting Lost

Wayfinding issues lead to significant costs due to staff time spent on assisting lost individuals, delays in patient care, and missed appointments.

A Deloitte report showed that medical staff spends on average 4,500 hours in giving directions every year. That is a considerable amount of time wasted just on giving directions.

Lost patients and visitors disrupt hospital schedules and workflows, leading to inefficiencies and increased workload.

Navigational difficulties heighten stress and dissatisfaction among patients. Efficient wayfinding is crucial for patient safety, especially in emergency situations.

Three Main Reasons Why People Get Lost in Hospitals

  1. Complex Hospital Layouts: Hospitals often have intricate, sometimes maze-like structures with long corridors which look similar and multiple wings, making navigation challenging for patients, visitors, and even staff.

  2. Inadequate Signage and Wayfinding Systems: Traditional signage and wayfinding tools are frequently insufficient, leading to confusion and difficulty in locating destinations within the hospital.

  3. Lack of Pre-Visit Information and Real-Time Guidance: The absence of effective pre-visit directions and real-time navigational assistance exacerbates the confusion, especially for first-time visitors.

Assessment of the Costs of Getting Lost in Hospitals

  • Financial Impact: Wayfinding issues can cost hospitals significantly, with studies showing expenses up to $500,000 annually at due to staff assisting lost individuals and other related inefficiencies. Missed appointments due to navigational difficulties add to this burden, with the NHS losing almost £1 billion annually.

  • Operational and Staff Impact: Staff spend substantial time assisting lost patients, leading to lost productivity and increased workload. This can result in staff burnout and compromised patient care.

  • Patient Experience and Safety: Patients experiencing stress and confusion due to poor navigation can have longer hospital stays and increased health risks.

In summary, inefficient hospital wayfinding systems lead to significant financial costs, operational challenges, and negative impacts on patient experience and safety.

Case for wayfinding

Wayfinding is a multidisciplinary design profession, combining cognitive behavior, information design, and user experience. It enhances the process of finding your way to a destination in a familiar or unfamiliar setting by using cues from the environment.

The goal of wayfinding is to create a unique and seamless journey by showing the right information at the right time. A comprehensive and bespoke wayfinding system where patients and visitors can orientate, navigate, and locate destinations in a building or environment.

Holistic wayfinding approach

A holistic wayfinding approach that reduces stress and costs while creating a seamless journey experience in hospitals should include:

  • Integrated Digital and Physical Signage: Combining clear, large physical signs with digital solutions (like interactive maps and mobile apps) ensures accessibility and real-time guidance for all users​​​​.
  • Personalized Navigation Assistance: Utilizing technology such as QR codes, WiFi triangulation, or beacons for real-time, personalized navigation can cater to individual needs and reduce the likelihood of getting lost​​​​.
  • Pre-visit and On-site Information: Providing detailed pre-visit directions and on-site information desks or volunteers can help orient visitors upon arrival and throughout their visit, addressing wayfinding issues effectively​​.

This approach combines technology, human assistance, and clear physical markers to create an environment where patients and visitors can navigate hospital spaces more confidently and efficiently.

Design for today and plan for the Future

Our vision for Wayfinding is an integrated information platform that creates an on-demand and personalized user experience. Our approach seeks to improve people’s understanding of the built environment by implementing identity, urban design, and wayfinding strategies.

Key takeaways

  • People first — User-centered information tools
  • Integrated — Holistic design approach
  • Vision and research — Solving wayfinding problems
  • From the place for the place — A unique experience
  • Seamless — Extendable and flexible
  • Digital — Personalized experiences
  • Build design resources — Ensure legacy
  • Invest once and wisely — High quality delivers a ROI



Let's work together

More on hospital wayfinding, contact us →



Every day, our work helps thousands of people navigate hospitals. We are experts in placemaking and wayfinding.




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