EGD is a profession that embraces many design disciplines including graphic design, architecture, interior design, landscape design and industrial design. EGD develops systems for informing circulation and egress, as well as a means to communicate brand, and reinforce the sense of place.

An effective EGD system functions as an integral element of the built environment, and is holistic and intuitive in nature. It flows with the building’s spatial grammar, while responding simultaneously to multiple user groups. It engages identity graphics, sign programs, exhibit and interpretive design, information design such as orientation maps, as well as memorial and donor recognition programs. It capitalizes on architectural features, and works in tandem with the interior color palette and materials.