Transport for NSW (TfNSW) are currently undertaking an ambitious overhaul of their transportation wayfinding infrastructure throughout New South Wales and the capital Sydney, a city with a population of some 4.5 million. The program includes the implementation of an integrated signage system across all transport modes including wayfinding principles aligned with maps, websites, apps, digital information systems and other communication channels.
TfNSW’s Customer Experience Division has led development of the new system, including the colour-coded T, B, F, L letter icons for trains, buses, ferries and light rail, designed to be easily understood identifiers of public transport for both visitors and residents. TfNSW has been supported by external design teams in developing various elements, including Grimshaw Architects and Maynard Design in the early concept and strategy stages.
Working in close collaboration with TfNSW, Dotdash undertook the challenge of designing a consistent, recognisable and flexible wayfinding system for deployment across the entire Sydney Light Rail and Ferry networks.
The solution is a ground up approach which translates across nearly 60 unique sites, ranging from high density urban environments to open parkland and quiet suburban pockets. Based on a Kit-of-Parts system, the design supports a smooth customer journey. Each sign type has a place within sequential zones of user experience from approach to arrival, to waiting and then boarding. The same is true in reverse. The mode identifiers provide the promise of a transport service followed by confirmation of the stop/wharf name, and then critical user information such as network and local area maps upon arrival and departure.
The thoughtful placement of signage elements and simple clean graphics are intended to create a highly approachable and intuitive wayfinding experience, directing travellers to their destinations seamlessly.
Client Transport for New South Wales
Project Team Heath Pedrola, Erin Stromgren, Larraine Henning, Keith Sullivan, Domenic Nastasi & Mark Ross
Photography Florian Groehn
