Duke University Medical Center

A comprehensive wayfinding and identification signage program for the renovation and expansion of a world-class emergency department.

fd2s provided programming, documentation, and contract administration services for wayfinding and identification signage at the expansion and renovation of the Medical Center’s Emergency Department. The project doubled the size of the existing ED and added an integrated Pediatric ED to the facility.

Previous projects for DUMC have included a comprehensive analysis of the wayfinding program at the Medical Center’s multi-building Duke Clinic facility, and then handling the implementation of a broad range of modifications and improvements recommended by this analysis. This included an innovative system of directional landmarks that incorporate images reflecting the history, values, and mission of the institution.

fd2s also conducted a brief on-site study of the user experience associated with the institution’s Patient Rapid Transit system, which is a two-track underground rail line that transports patients, visitors, and staff between the hospital, clinics, and parking facilities. After observing users, experiencing the system firsthand, and interviewing Medical Center staff, fd2s made a series of concrete recommendations regarding potential improvements in the areas of facilities, operations, and user education.