Signage

In signage a pictogram is the image used to convey the message of the sign. In statutory signage pictograms follow a very specific set of colour, shape and sizing rules. In UK and EU signs the width of a sign's pictogram is set at 80% the height of the area it is printed to. In the US, a pictogram that identifies a room or space (such as the gender pictogram on a restroom signs), must follow specific rules. Other pictograms that must comply with rules are the four "Symbols of Accessibility" specified in the ADA Accessibility Guidelines. See the article *ADA Signs

In the US, the pictogram described above would have to be located within a six inch high clear field, with raised characters and braille located beneath the field.

According to the book "Discovery-Based Retail," signage falls into three groups: decorative, adding eye-pleasing color; informational; or directional, providing guidance.

Signs have very specific shapes. These shapes on signs send messages to the audience and form a set of rules that should be followed when developing signage. The particular shapes may vary among different parts of the world.

In contrast, a circular sign is an instruction that must be followed. Both the mandatory and the prohibition signs provide instructions that cannot be ignored.

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