Map Design in Subway Stations through Passengers' Wayfinding Behavior Perspective

Abstract

This empirical study of behavioural observation with a verbal report attempts to understand the process of map-reading for purposes of wayfinding in a subway station at Taipei in Taiwan. Subjects were required to find the shortest way in reaching an exit via three manners - without a map, aided by 2D, and 3D maps. The results indicated that the design of underground space maps should support a direction and floor wayfinding strategy, plus the selection of a suitable angle of vision. Important considerations include marking the nearest exit, marking the scale, intensifying wall performance, and clarifying the discrimination of different floors and areas.