Pictograms have emerged as a powerful tool for communication, capable of transcending language barriers and providing intuitive visual cues. In the area of wayfinding, they play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate their surroundings effectively. From their humble origins in ancient civilisations to the modern, inclusive designs of today, the evolution of pictograms in wayfinding has been driven by the need for universal understanding and inclusivity. This article quickly explores a brief history of pictograms, looking at their early origins, the development of standardised systems, the contributions of influential designers, and the latest trends in inclusive wayfinding.
Ancient civilisations, such as Egyptians and Mayans, used pictograms to communicate despite language barriers. The International System of Pictorial Symbols (ISPS) standardised symbols for wayfinding, ensuring clarity and consistency across cultures. Designer Otl Aicher revolutionised pictogram design with his work for the 1972 Munich Olympics, emphasising simplicity and abstraction. ISO 7001 established guidelines for public information symbols, promoting usability and communication. In the digital realm, pictograms have evolved to incorporate animations and interactive elements, enhancing their effectiveness in guiding individuals through complex environments.
Massimo Vignelli, a prominent Italian designer, left an enduring mark on various design fields, including graphic design and wayfinding. His most remarkable contribution was creating the iconic signage system for the New York City Subway in the 1970s. Vignelli's minimalist and clean approach, along with his use of standardised symbols, set a standard for wayfinding systems in public transportation. His designs continue to inspire and shape the way we interact with urban environments. Vignelli's pictogram style was characterised by simplicity, clarity, and adherence to a set of standardised symbols. In his graphic design approach, he emphasised a clean and minimalist aesthetic, with a focus on geometric shapes and bold, legible typography. For pictograms, Vignelli aimed to create visual representations that were readily recognisable and easily comprehensible to users. He believed that universal symbols that transcended cultural and linguistic differences were powerful, enabling people from diverse backgrounds to navigate spaces with ease. Vignelli's pictograms for the New York City Subway system were renowned for their minimalist yet highly functional design. He used simple geometric forms, including circles, squares, and triangles, representing various elements and concepts. These included subway stations, exits, restrooms, escalators, and more. Vignelli employed a grid-based system that maintained consistent proportions and visual harmony across all pictograms to ensure clarity and enhance legibility. The symbols were often depicted in a bold and straightforward style, with sharp edges and minimal embellishments, ensuring that they stood out clearly in the busy subway environment. In addition to their visual simplicity, Vignelli's pictograms were scalable, enabling them to maintain their clarity and readability at various sizes, from large signs to small icons on maps or signage. This scalability allowed for their effective integration into different wayfinding elements throughout the subway system. Vignelli's pictograms for the New York City Subway system became iconic, influencing subsequent wayfinding designs not only in transportation but also in other public spaces. His timeless approach to pictogram design continues to serve as a reference point for designers seeking to create visually striking and universally understandable symbols that facilitate intuitive navigation and communication.
Image by Vignelli Associates