University of Sheffield Students’ Union Launches Digital Wayfinding System

The University of Sheffield Students’ Union (SU) has introduced a new digital wayfinding system aimed at enhancing the student experience by fostering a sense of belonging. This initiative employs advanced digital technology to simplify navigation within the Union’s complex six-story building, which accommodates a variety of facilities including cinemas, nightclubs, and student services.

Digital wayfinding utilizes interactive signage, digital displays, and mobile screens to provide real-time navigation assistance in various indoor settings. The newly implemented system at the SU is designed to help users find their way through the space, addressing the needs of over 31,000 members, particularly those who are new to the university or have mobility or language-related challenges.

Richard Copley, the project lead at the University of Sheffield Students’ Union, emphasized the importance of creating an inviting environment. “A lot of our work is about making students feel like this is their space,” he stated. “We’ve built a Students’ Union that’s busy and vibrant, but also a bit of a maze, so we wanted to make it more accessible, more discoverable, and more welcoming to everyone.”

Enhancing Navigation and Accessibility

Central to this initiative is the integration of MazeMap, a digital indoor mapping system now fully operational within the Union. This tool allows students to find step-free routes and navigate between venues and services. The availability of information in multiple languages is particularly beneficial for Sheffield’s diverse international student population, which comprises more than 10,000 students from around the world.

Preliminary testing of the platform revealed that the most direct route between two of the SU’s busiest venues included stairs, with no alternative internal path available. This discovery has led to an internal review, prompting discussions about enhancing physical accessibility in future renovations. “MazeMap helped us see the building through students’ eyes,” Copley noted. “It’s already making our spaces more usable and, in some cases, revealing barriers we hadn’t noticed.”

Future Initiatives and Student Feedback

Plans are underway to incorporate digital orientation into induction programmes for incoming students. This strategy aims to help new students virtually explore the Union, locate key services, and develop familiarity before their arrival. This is especially significant in the UK, where students typically receive final confirmation of their placements in August 2023 but do not commence university until late September 2023.

The adoption of MazeMap is a direct response to longstanding feedback regarding difficulties in navigating the building, particularly for those with physical accessibility needs. By mapping the Union in detail and validating navigation paths, the SU has gained valuable insights into areas requiring improvement. This understanding will guide both operational decisions and structural changes moving forward.

Through this innovative approach, the University of Sheffield Students’ Union is not only enhancing the student experience but also committing to a more inclusive environment that recognizes and addresses the diverse needs of its members.