Designing an Interpretation Panel
16/08/2009
Interpretation panels provide facts and additional information about an attraction for visitors.
To work well, interpretation boards need to be clear, simple, well laid out and blend in well with their surroundings. If you are thinking of investing in an interpretation board for your visitor attraction, you’ll need to consider the board’s design and content carefully, as well as the sign itself.
Content
Before thinking about the imagery for the panel, think about your audience. This will affect the style, tone and content that you select for the interpretation panel. Depending on who your target visitors are, you could choose styles such as:
- Storyboard
- Conversational
- Academic
- Funny
- Basic language
Sourcing Content
In order to make the best possible interpretation panel, it may help you to enlist the advice and input of other organisations such as the local council, schools, charities, libraries, historical societies and other specialist groups.
Design
For the graphics and layout of the board, it may be wise to consult a professional designer. Remember to keep things simple and only include necessary information. You don’t want the panel to be cluttered or garish.
A professional designer will also be able to advise you on:
- Text size
- Colour
- Font
Additionally, a graphic designer could have access to a bank of images that you could use for your interpretation panel, which will save you lots of research time and possibly money.
Fitzpatrick Woolmer is a leading provider of creative sign and design solutions, including interpretation boards and panels, for public and open spaces, With in-house graphic design capabilities, and on-site timber, metal and recycled plastic workshops, we provide solutions to meet all outdoor communication requirements.
