Insights into wayfinding: urban design exploration through the use of algorithmic eye-tracking software

ABSTRACT

This paper seeks to use eye-tracking emulation software to understand and forecast the human responses to signage and directional cues in Massachusetts, USA. Using eye-tracking emulation software, this study measured the unconscious visual responses people are projected to have to designs and layouts in new built environments, focusing on what makes streets most walkable. The study found differences between the way the brain takes in conventional automobile-oriented residential developments versus new urbanist layouts, with the former lacking key fixation points. The study’s discoveries explain why new urbanist layouts promote walking effortlessly and conventional automobile-oriented residential developments cannot.

KEYWORDS:

• Transportation
• walking
• safety
• biometrics

Acknowledgements

Research assistance is acknowledged from Rachel Herman, Jennifer Han, and Chastidy Vasconez.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the Devens Enterprise Commission.