The built environment is the environment that we create around ourselves. Signs are a part of that.
Seth Godin recently posted this sign on his blog:
It was seen at LaGuardia Airport.
He then asked a few pertinent questions, dissecting the signs intent. Finally, he suggested the following reword:
Hi. To keep this terminal clean, it’s closed to visitors from midnight until 4 a.m. every night. Ticketed passengers are always welcome.
Which one do you prefer?
Which one is clearer?
Which one speaks to you with empathy?
Dan Pink would call the reword: emotionally intelligent signage.