Stations, particularly main transfer hubs, are often large and pose issues for navigating. Underground stations have the additional difficulty that above ground landmarks are not visible. Simple and understandable directions are required for users, particularly for those who may not speak the local language, are illiterate or may need more straightforward information.
WHAT
Colours could be used in floor design, in the walls or in the signage system. It has the added benefit of potentially making transfers for commuters faster, as colour coded guides are often quicker to comprehend than text.
INDICATE TRAIN OCCUPANCY
Managing people flow
‘People Flow & Allowing Users to Feel in Control’
WHY
Understanding the occupancy level of the arriving vehicle is useful for a passenger to know what to expect.
WHAT
Harnessing data available from vehicles can provide information on the train occupancy, nudging passengers to less crowded areas of the vehicle. This results in a smoother boarding and alighting process and for passengers to perceive being more in charge of their journey.
SIGNAGE TO DIRECT TO STAIRS AS ALTERNATIVE TO ESCALATORS
Managing people flows
‘People Flow & Wayfinding’
WHY
A healthy option for some, quicker for others, users may follow the crowd to the escalators when stairs might also be available as a suitable option.
WHAT
For shorter vertical distances, stairs provide an option for those who are able to bypass crowds on escalators. Signs can also be supplemented by campaigns promoting a healthy lifestyle and the impact of taking the stairs as an alternative.
EVEN THE DISTRIBUTION OF PASSENGERS
Managing people flows
‘Wayfinding & People Flow’
WHY
Passengers might not be able to see the full length of the platform and thus do not use it efficiently.
WHAT
Floor markings indicating that passengers should move away from the entry point can be used. They can guide passengers to use the entire boarding zone available and help to avoid crowds. Another solution is to nudge passengers by putting services or retail options that attract them farther from the entry point.