Poor Wayfinding is Costing Hospitals Thousands of Dollars Annually


by Megan Fisher, Wednesday, September 14, 2022

Indoor Navigation: The Cost of ConfusionHow many times have you gotten lost while trying to find your way around a hospital or other healthcare facilities? Aside from wasting time for patients, visitors, and staff, poor wayfinding systems are actually costing hospitals thousands of dollars annually. 

Breaking Down the Cost of Confusion

The following chart and analysis, pulled from Craig Zimring, Ph.D.’s “The Costs of Confusion: Non-monetary and Monetary Costs of the Emory University Hospital Wayfinding System” examine a traditional, signage-based wayfinding system at Emory University Hospital, in 1990. Of course, advancements in wayfinding, particularly digital wayfinding, have begun to resolve some of the key problems affecting many wayfinding systems. And yet, the below data still represents the persistent and expensive troubles many healthcare organizations experience around wayfinding in their hospitals. 

Poor Wayfinding is Costing Hospitals Thousands of Dollars Annually

Source: Zimring, C. (1990) 'The Costs of Confusion: Non-monetary and Monetary Costs of the Emory University Hospital Wayfinding System

The Solution: Digital Wayfinding System

Navigating large and complex buildings can be confusing and costly but it doesn't have to be. Implementing a simple, human-centered digital wayfinding solution that's agile and adaptable can actually save your hospital time and money. Eyedog.US uses landmark photos to provide clear indoor pedestrian directions. Our scientifically proven technology, paired with expert implementation and adoption services, promises better, faster, and more affordable wayfinding tailored to your health system's unique needs. Interested in trying it out? Schedule a free demo to find out more about our digital wayfinding solutions & services