PREFACE:While observing various subway stations, we noticed that the subways are very impersonal. People ignore each other, there is nothing to help pass the time while waiting for the trains, and the overall experience leaves the rider with the feeling that subway travel is a necessary evil.
Graffiti as a Metaphor:
Nevertheless, subway riders have been attempting to add their personal touch to the subways for years - through graffiti.
And then it dawned on us...
Using graffiti as a metaphor, we examined how a passenger could add his/her personal touch and share that with other riders. It is important that tourists and everyday commuters would share in a similar experience, allowing them to personalize and enhance the experience of those around them.
Five Goals:
1) Give people a feeling of ownership of their subway.
2) Give people a creative outlet.
3) Let people have a little fun while they are waiting for the train.
4) Allow New Yorkers and visitors a chance to see the faces and ideas of the subway community.
5) Incorporate our ideas into the existing "look and feel" of the MTA.
To accomplish these goals, we propose...
First, let's look at a current MetroCard vending machine
The current user interface is clean, easy to read, and matches with the current MTA signage design. The new interface design would keep all of those elements.
However, the whole process could be streamlined. For example, if you stick your old MetroCard in, isn't it obvious that you want to refill it?
If you stick your ATM card in, isn't it obvious that you want to pay with your ATM card?
NEXT: The new MTAG booth and interface