Metrolinx
Elevating Canada’s largest transit network with dynamic wayfindingThis project focuses on developing a unified digital wayfinding system, using dynamic information and real time updates to make navigation easy and convenient for users across the region.
Category: Wayfinding & Signage
Current problems The user experience of riders not being put first was the main issue identified with current signage, as they often prioritized advertisements and unnecessary information. Designs were also inconsistent between transit agencies and often not up to latest standards.
Design principlesWayfinding should assist the user’s journey one step at a time without making assumptions about their prior knowledge of the transit system. It also must acknowledge transit as a region-wide system and work seamlessly no matter what transit agency is being used.
Colour and typographyNew colours were chosen for streetcars to help differentiate between routes. Helvetica was chosen as the primary typeface for its clarity and uniformity with existing wayfinding standards.
Modal icons
Currently, transit is primarily identified through operator logos, which can cause confusion when transferring across municipal borders. Thus, I created a distinct icon for each transit type so that different modes can be identified anywhere on the network.
Line icons
Currently, streetcar routes mimic bus routes, and LRT icons are grouped with subway icons, despite having different service levels.
These new icons better differentiate streetcar and LRT as separate modes and help distinguish each line from one another.
ModulesDigital wayfinding displays are made up of separate modules that can be animated to communicated complex information.
Regional transit map
This redesigned map contextualizes these new icons in a unified regional transit system. It includes existing as well as under construction and proposed lines/stations.
Next vehicle informationThese displays show arrival times by counting down in minutes. I designed a layout that prioritizes important information while leaving space for advertising, service alerts, and announcements.
Dynamic line mapsNext vehicle information screens can be combined with a line map to show all stops along a route as well as service suspensions and live positions of trains.
Departure boardsA different layout is used for services with scheduled departures. These can also be combined with a line map to show upcoming stations and transfers along the route.
Vehicle next stop screens
Displays upcoming stops, arrival times, and transit connections along a route. Subway vehicle screens dynamically change once approaching a stop, and information is provided for which side the doors will open. This information should also be relayed with audio announcements.
Real-time updates
Service alerts, announcements, emergencies, and closures can be displayed in real-time across a variety of formats.
Design guidelines I developed a design guidelines document to allow for consistency and adaptation as the transit network across the GTHA expands.
The document is available for download here.