You are here: why good maps still matter

Maps might seem outdated in a world of apps and GPS, but in complex places like hospitals, universities, or civic precincts, a well-designed map can be a lifeline. It’s more than just information—it provides orientation, reassurance, and a sense of control. That small dot—You are here—can anchor the entire experience.

Why orientation matters

Feeling disoriented increases anxiety. But when people can see where they are in relation to where they need to be, stress drops immediately. A well-placed, well-oriented map bridges that gap. It delivers the right information, at the right moment, in a way that’s quick to understand.

To do this well, a map should be:

• Placed where decisions happen—like entrances or intersections

• Aligned with the user’s real-world view - orientated in the viewing direction

• Simplified to focus on what’s relevant in that location

• Designed with a clear visual hierarchy, labels, and symbols

There’s a classic joke about the man standing in front of the shopping centre map, pointing at the little dot and turning to his wife: “I don’t know how they do it, but somehow they know exactly where I am.” It’s funny because it captures that small moment of reassurance—someone, somewhere, has anticipated your confusion and made it easier.

Reading a map isn’t the same for everyone

People come with different skills, experiences, and needs. Some are confident with spatial layouts. Others may struggle with abstract representations or face language and literacy barriers. Many users find maps difficult to interpret—especially when under stress. We’ve all seen someone slowly rotating a map while turning on the spot, trying to match it to the world around them. That’s a clear sign the system is asking too much.

A good map still has value, but it should never be the only navigational aid. Inclusive design means assuming a wide range of comfort levels and supporting users with layered information—like directional signs, intuitive layout, and helpful landmarks. When a map is used, it should use colour, contrast, icons, and a logical layout to make meaning clear without needing a manual.

Why fixed maps still matter—even with GPS

Almost everyone carries a phone. But relying on personal devices to find your way isn’t always practical—or possible. GPS struggles indoors, Wi-Fi can be patchy, and not everyone is confident using digital tools in unfamiliar environments. Static, location-specific maps are always there, always accurate in context, and don’t depend on battery life or signal strength. They’re shared reference points that support everyone—whether they’re using a phone or not.

Another strength of fixed maps is control. They allow the space owner to decide exactly what users see, when and where they need it. That means no advertising clutter, no irrelevant businesses, no pop-ups or search results competing for attention. Just the essential information, tailored for that location and that moment. It’s a curated experience, not a feed.

Designing a map is a specialist skill

Map design isn’t just another graphic design job. It’s a specialised discipline that requires a structured, systematic approach. You need to understand what information users need, exactly when they need it. Most graphic designers aren’t trained to think this way. They may excel at visual identity or layout design, but wayfinding requires a different mindset—one that balances clarity, sequencing, timing, and cognitive load. Good maps are designed with intent, not just styled to look good.

Landmarks help people make sense of space

In environments where many areas look alike—like hospital wings or campus buildings—maps need more than just shapes and labels. Including visible landmarks like sculptures, water features, or distinctive trees improves understanding. These visual cues help people relate what they see on the map to what they see in front of them.

Clarity beats completeness

A common mistake in map design is trying to show everything at once. More information doesn’t make a map more useful. In fact, it usually makes it harder to use. The best maps are edited with purpose. They highlight what matters, suppress what doesn’t, and leave enough breathing room for the brain to process.

Different users may need different maps. That’s not a problem—it’s a strength. Maps tailored to specific moments or audiences are more effective than one generic version that serves no one well.

That dot still matters

A good map does more than show you where things are. It shows you where you are—and that you’ve got this. It supports confidence, reduces reliance on staff, and improves the overall experience.

Digital tools have their place. But there’s still power in a well-positioned, well-designed map. A moment of clarity. A sense of control. A quiet way of saying, you’re on track.