Visitor Guidance at Bürkliplatz: Milani Optimizes ZSG Wayfinding System
For the Lake Zurich Navigation Company (ZSG), Milani developed an optimized signage concept and clear wayfinding system that not only improves orientation but also streamlines operational processes.
Orientation Instead of Confusion
Long lines, lots of questions, little clarity: the main pier of the Lake Zurich Navigation Company at Zurich’s Bürkliplatz had become a bottleneck, especially in the summer months. As part of Zurich’s public transport system, the pier is a high-traffic hub with a very diverse audience: commuters, day-trippers, and international tourists. A technical failure of the central departure display triggered the redesign. ZSG brought Milani on board as a strategic design partner to create simple yet effective solutions that guide visitor flows more efficiently and ease the workload for staff.
Together with the ZSG team, we analyzed the entire customer journey, from arrival at the square to ticket purchase and boarding. The goal: a signage and wayfinding system that works intuitively for both locals and multilingual tourists, without lengthy explanations.
Design with impact: more clarity, less stress
The first implemented measures are already showing results: a color-coded overview map, clearly structured pathways, and newly positioned information points significantly improve orientation. The number of recurring questions has dropped noticeably, staff are relieved, and overall operations feel calmer and more structured.
The new signage concept enhances the entire Lake Zurich cruise experience. For ZSG, it represents a real gain in efficiency and a prime example of how thoughtful design, even with simple means, can have a powerful impact. The next phases are already in planning and will further improve visitor guidance.
