Before the two ways, show the answer to the next question.
Entrance, line interchange and platform do not need the same information. Designing the message for each point makes the passenger’s path more understandable.
Why is this application important?
A passenger in a subway station is often on the move and has little time to read a long text. At an interchange station, the selection of the appropriate line, direction and platform is done consecutively. Metro signage contributes to this experience when it delivers the message at the decision point with consistent names.
The timetable, map and service-change notice serve different purposes. Combining all of them on one crowded page can hide the most important message. The operating plan should define which information takes priority at the entrance, at a route-change point and beside the platform.
From idea to usable implementation
Coordinate directions and destination names throughout the route
The line name, terminus and interchange location must be consistent across the map, display and physical signs. Line color is a supporting cue and should appear with the name or number. An unfamiliar passenger should not have to rely on color alone. During route review, identify outdated names or inconsistent abbreviations and align them with the operator’s approved reference.
Separate the schedule from the current estimate
If a page receives schedule and current data, their meaning must be easy to distinguish. Account for data time and source-validity status in the design. Presenting an old estimate as a confirmed time can mislead the audience. The operator should define status names, data-delay conditions and the presentation of alternative information in advance.
Connect the service change message to the passenger’s decision
The notice should clarify the scope and effect of the change and direct the audience to the approved guidance. The location of the show is important; It is better for a person to see the relevant information before reaching the decision point. The copy of the page and the staff manual should be consistent about the name of the place and the time of the credit. After the change is finished, check the output of the old message.
Scenario: Interchange station with two lines
At the entrance, the display shows the main routes and related status. Before the branching of the corridors, the name of the line and the direction are illuminated, and next to the platform, the information of the same service is prioritized. In a service change exercise, the team walks the route from the passenger’s point of view and sees if the notification is seen before the route is selected. Any discrepancies between names or versions will be referred to the designated authority.
Match the message with the point of travel
| Point | The main need | Review required |
|---|---|---|
| Station entrance | Recognizing the path and related changes | Priority and readability of notice |
| Exchange lines | Choice of line and direction | Matching names and signs |
| Next to the platform | Related motion information | Novelty and the meaning of time |
How to evaluate the result?
In the route view, record the place to stop for questions, wrong choice of direction and differences in perception of the situation. Check the current data with the authorized authority and document the result of the service change exercise. To draw conclusions about the flow of passengers, congestion conditions and time differences should also be included in the evaluation method.
This scenario in SignagePlus
Metro information app, route guide and SignagePlus message management are used to design station information. The data scenario, the release destinations and the service change procedure should be coordinated with the reference user and evaluated in the real environment.
Common questions
Is the line color sufficient for guidance?
Color helps with identification, but name or number and clear direction are also needed. Test the design with unfamiliar people and different viewing conditions.
Should all stations have the same page?
Identity and naming rules should be common; But the role of station, line interchange and installation location need appropriate content.