When we think about inefficiencies in hospitals, we often consider staff shortages, outdated equipment, or administrative bottlenecks. But one hidden and costly problem affects nearly every hospital: poor wayfinding.

A confusing wayfinding system—signs, maps, and directions that are unclear or inconsistent—does not just cause frustration. It costs hospitals hundreds of thousands of dollars per year in lost productivity, inefficiencies, and wasted staff time.

In a landmark 1990 study, researcher Craig Zimring analyzed the financial and human costs of poor wayfinding at Emory University Hospital. His findings were eye-opening:

• Annual cost of poor wayfinding: $220,000+ per year

• Lost staff time due to giving directions: Over 4,500 hours per year

• Cost per hospital bed per year: $448

• Amount spent annually on wayfinding problems was greater than the cost of fixing them

But this was in 1990; 35 years ago!