This paper, a summary of a document created for a Master of Arts degree in Interior Design at Northern Illinois University, Dekalb, Illinois, discusses research on "wayfinding" and the need for designers and planners to recognize its importance in order to provide more user-friendly environments. Orientation is the first step in successful wayfinding. Through images, names and meanings, the concept of a sense of place can be grasped. Cognitive mapping is the process that enables individuals to mentally organize or comprehend stimuli; cognitive maps are formed by information from the environment which is obtained from the five senses. Research in urban planning, environmental psychology, sociology, architecture, interior design, and environmental graphic design has proven that wayfinding is not only a complex process, but a critical design issue involving several disciplines. Designers must be able to communicate different types of information to different types of users. Elements of an effective wayfinding system include: (1) spaces that are visually distinctive; (2) points of reference; (3) a building layout that is easy to understand and remember; (4) memorable landmarks; (5) signs, symbols, directories, and maps; (5) staff who are well-trained in giving instructions. A description of the presentation of the one-person show done to fulfill requirements of the Master of Arts degree concludes the paper. (Contains 21 references.) (AEF)