Graphemes as a structural element of the design of subway schemes

The focal point of this study pertains to the role of fundamental structural and compositional elements of infodesign of transport schemes, which collectively influence the viewer's perception of visual language. These elements have been delineated as 'graphemes'. The analytical framework encompasses their structural components, the functional role they play in navigation, the aesthetic principles that govern the organization of scheme space, and the cultural-semiotic significance that reflects local identity. A particular focus of the study is the interaction of graphemes with the user, exploring how their shape and composition influence information perception, emotional response, and navigation facilitation within the context of urban transport systems. The objective of this study is to explore the role of 'graphemes' in the design of transport schemes, and to attempt to develop a methodology of approaches to the introduction of certain symbols or signs into the design of metro schemes, taking into account their cultural, functional and aesthetic criteria, expressed in our own interpretation of the St. Petersburg metro scheme based on this approach. The research was conducted using the following methods: information design, semiotics and psychology. These methods included prototyping, comparative analysis, case study and narrative method. The results of the study confirm that the integration of graphemes increases the intuitiveness of the systems and their cultural adaptation strengthens the identity of the urban environment. Using the author's interpretation of the St Petersburg metro scheme as an example, it is shown how local symbols (e.g. historic buildings) can be organically integrated into the design. The following necessary steps for further research are highlighted as prospects: testing the proposed solutions through sociological surveys of passengers to assess their practical effectiveness; developing flexible methods for scaling 'graphemes', taking into account the expansion of transport networks and changes in the urban context.

grapheme, navigation system, subway, subway scheme, sign, infodesign, infographics, prägnanz, design semiotics, symbol