Room
Renumbering
Method to Implement
A new room numbering system can be implemented and the old number system
New Room Numbers
retained.
While Retaining Old
Numbers
The new room number system is put in place on the wall at the side of the door
as a part of a new sign program. The old room number can be put on a small sign
(i.e. 1" X 4") mounted on the top of the door frame on the hinge side. With this
approach, when a new corrected room numbering scheme is put in place, the old
room number designation is not effected. The old room number on the plaque that
is attached to the door frame retains the old number for as long as necessary. The
new room number is then in place for the public and the wayfinding system.
While this approach may address the concerns of those who do not want to
change numbers, it does introduce two systems into a building. Typically the new
system will get adapted by people in a matter of just a couple of weeks. Then a
decision will need to be made regarding what departments will stay using the old
system.
Although engineering may want to remain with the old system, it is not
recommended. There are ways for engineering to make room number revisions
while maintaining the integrity of their databases. For example, Computer
Aided Facility Management (CAFM) systems can include programs for old
room numbers/new room numbers that will electronically solve such concerns,
without much effort. Inputting the revisions in CAFM can also be included in the
replacement signage contract.
Criteria for Room
The following is a guideline for a door/room numbering system and a proposed
Numbering
outline method to implement and/or updating the system. These are intended only
as guidelines and a starting point for further study of a proposed room numbering
system.
General Wayfinding
Building layout and shape play a significant role in the development of a room
Considerations
number system that functions correctly.
Review a site plan identifying the building entrances and access usage. Evaluate
the building floor plan and identify main features, primary entrance, exits, hallways,
elevators and determine major paths of travel. When determining the paths of
travel, also identify where these paths of travel originate.
Identify major and secondary corridors, waiting rooms, office suites, service and
activity rooms, open office areas, and mechanical /utility rooms & spaces.
Determine major, secondary & tertiary destinations such as clinics, reception
areas, offices, nursing stations, pharmacy, rest rooms, etc. Note locations of
vertical circulation elements (elevators, stairs).
Survey and make note of the building structural "grid", beams, columns, windows,
shear walls, etc. Note corridor alignments and other architectural elements like
atriums, courtyards, etc.
Note patterning in building construction ... Do walls tend to follow a pattern of
placement? Do walls follow a pattern from floor to floor? Are corridors in the same
location from floor to floor? Are certain rooms in the same location on each floor?
And, also identify where existing room numbers do function correctly and may not
require any revisions.
02/2005
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