– Policy 5150: University Way finding System and Sign Standards
Date Originally Issued: October 21, 2019
Authorized by RPM 3.1 (“Responsibilities of the Rector”)
Process Owner: Associate Vice Rector for Institutional Support Services
- General
The Mesarya Technical University’s (MTU) Wayfinding System encompasses all signage and other mechanisms used to guide individuals in finding their way to various destinations throughout MTU. It was developed to ensure a cohesive visual identity that presents a sense of unity and pride among those connected to MTU, by requiring consistent design and materials, including signs. Well-defined and organized-wayfinding promotes marketing of MTU services; creating a positive image; evoking a sense of history, quality, and character; establishing gateways; and improving the streetscape. Additionally wayfinding enhances accessibility and public safety, by focusing the attention of walkers, cyclists, and drivers thereby reducing accidents. This policy describes the requirements and procedures necessary to ensure a successful and cost effective Wayfinding System.
- Design Guidelines
Wayfinding and signage standards and guidelines are posted on the Physical Plant website. MTU sign types covered by these standards and guidelines include, but are not limited to, campus entry monument, site identification, vehicular directional, welcome sign, building identifier, wall mounted letters, building directory, parking information, pedestrian orientation maps, and pedestrian/bicycle regulatory and safety. Additional sign types may be developed by the University Planning Officer as necessary.
- Authority
The University Architect and the Associate ViceRector for Institutional Support Services (ISS) will collaborate with the appropriate level of faculty, administration, staff, and building occupants in the planning, design, and construction phases of wayfinding and signage.
- Request for Exterior Signs
Departments or units wishing to request an external sign may submit a request through the “Project Request” tab on thePhysical Plant website or Planning, Design & Construction website. Criteria for approval will be based on the wayfinding and signage standards and guidelines discussed in Section 2. herein.
Freestanding building identification signs shall generally present only:
- formal building name or donor name (naming of University facilities must comply with UAP 1020 (“Honorary Naming Recognition”);
- college/school;
- department;
- executive office or established institution;
- numeric address; and/or
- building number.
Once approved, the Physical Plant Department will arrange for the fabrication and installation of signs.
4.1. Cost
The cost of building signs for new or major remodelled buildings will be charged to the applicable construction account. Changes to existing building signs requested by the administration will be charged to the appropriate account. All other name changes and/or sign requests which are initiated by a department or unit will be charged to the requestor’s department through a purchase requisition. The Purchasing Department will not process any exterior building sign purchase requisition without written approval from the University Architect or designee.
4.2. Appeals
If an exterior sign request is not approved, the decision can be appealed in writing to the Associate ViceRector for Institutional Support Services.