Parking garages are notorious for being confusing. Double helixes and similar looking floors lead to lost cars and confused parkers. Some operators are finding a solution, such as theme garages which are becoming commonplace. Whether it's fish, planets, or movies, some garages are becoming a showplace for lively graphics and traditional art. For instance, the two largest operators in Chicago, General Parking and Standard Parking, are using all types of "reminders" to help drivers remember the floor on which they parked. Colorful, distinctive graphics not only provide a welcome feeling in the lobbies, but also make it easier to remember the floor.

Standard's patented concept of combining music with themes for each floor has been touted nationwide. Everything from cities and movies, to college and Chicago sports teams adorn the walls and serenade Standard's customers.

General has also used a myriad of graphics, from planets to types of money to a travelogue of Chicago tourist sites and its location in each elevator lobby.

The parking facilities have all the floors listed in the main lobby with the corresponding graphic. Most parkers can find their floor quickly by checking the display and remembering that they were on the "French" or "Mercury" floor.

Does it work? Psychologists indicate that persons remember concepts and words more easily than specific facts and numbers, especially when our exposure is brief. They add, that sounds bring back memories quickly and also note that smells can be the quickest in dredging up memories.

These amenities make parking a better experience by giving customers something to talk about other than high rates, dirty garages, and dented fenders.