CIC Floor Maps + Wayfinding
The Challenge: Clarify navigation of CIC spaces, improve visual + material quality of maps, improve + maintain accuracy
My Process: Map research, feature development, material experimentation and testing
Stakeholders: Operations teams, CIC clients and guests
Methods + Tools: Illustrator
Results: More accurate and beautiful floor maps supported by flexible wayfinding standards
CICās unique space designs and floor plans are beautiful and engaging, but can be a bit confusing to new visitors. As Graphic Design Lead, I set out to beautify the maps and improve the user experience of navigating the space.
CICās floor plans start as AutoCad files, which I processed in Illustrator; simplifying, labelling, and color coding for various teams. After this first phase, the maps were ready to be converted to the public facing lobby version.
Outdated 16th floor map
In my Creative Design Lead role, I inherited an incomplete and inconsistent set of such maps, which didnāt communicate all the necessary info or match brand standards. The biggest issue was that they failed to conceptualize CIC as an ecosystem that exists across multiple floors of a building.
Mockup presented as part of a map update proposal
In Philadelphia for example, there were 4 floors at launch, with two more added later. Clients are often encouraged to explore other floors and make connections, but how were they to know which floors were related to CIC?
Current 16th floor map
A āmini mapā stack feature was added to clarify CIC floors in the building and note the floor guests are currently on. I also updated colors to match brand colors, added CIC staff contact info, and created a color key for space types.
CIC Providence 3rd floor map
I also explored new material types to upgrade map presentation. Plexiglass printed on both sides to create a dimensional quality became a cost-effective option that still provided a clean, finished look.
Along with the maps, I developed new vinyl wayfinding standards in partnership with an operations colleague on the Philly team.
These waypoints were applied at key intersections and corners throughout the space, making navigation clearer, cleaner, and more helpful, while still being inexpensive and easy to apply. These features were key, as CIC adjusts spaces dynamically based on usage and customer demands.
Both the maps and wayfinding use a comprehensive icon set I developed and maintained, often creating new icons for operations teams by request.