| Title |
An Analysis of the Relationship Between Spatial Layout and Wayfinding Efficiency In the Context of Space Syntax |
| Keywords |
Wayfinding ; Spatial layout ; Space Syntax ; Virtual environment ; VRML |
| Abstract |
There are many environmental factors that effect the efficiency of wayfinding. In the previous research, it is argued that the spatial layout is the most important factor in wayfinding. However, the evidences found in the existing research results do not support the argument in that they did not exclude in their experiments some confounding environmental cues such as signage and landmarks. In this study, the effect of spatial layout on wayfinding is more rigorously and systematically sought. Here the term 'spatial layout' is defined as 'topological relationship of spaces within a setting.'
Space Syntax model is used for the analysis of the effect of spatial layout on wayfinding. Also an experimental research is designed along with track tracing, interview and sketch map analyses. For the experiment environment, a computer simulation program using VRML (Virtual Reality Modeling Language) is developed and created by the authors.
The results suggest that spatial layout affects the frequency of use of specific paths in wayfinding and the overall efficiency of wayfinding. The subject use more frequently the spaces where integration, control and connectivity values are relatively higher; and the subjects tend to reach the designated destination more easily when the destination is placed in those positions with higher integration, control and connectivity values. |