TRANSLOC
my role
UIUX Designer,
UX Researcher
OVERVIEW
designer
Elaine Zeng
Hailin Chen
Ziyi Li
Pranali Mukkannavar
Nikitha Chendil
Our team, building on prior group research about Savannah College of Art and Design, aimed to address the challenges students face with the school bus system. To enhance the overall experience, we focused on improving and updating the existing school bus app, "Transloc." Our goal was to create a more efficient and user-friendly platform that better meets the transportation needs of students.
project brief
Before starting the design for the SCAD Bus, we frequently heard students complain about the disorganized state of the school buses. This prompted us to conduct a series of research efforts to better understand their true concerns and experiences.
the problem
The interviews with SCAD students reveal several key issues with the school bus system, mainly centered around time management and convenience. Below are the main concerns:
Commuting takes too much time, leaving less time for homework and study.
Walking or biking is often faster than waiting for the bus.
SCAD buses don’t cover all locations, limiting accessibility.
Waiting for the bus feels like a waste of time, especially during busy schedules.
The bus schedule is too rushed in the mornings, making it difficult to arrive on time for early classes.
Some students prefer alternative transport options, like scooters or walking, for flexibility and speed.
initial research
Our questionnaires and interviews identified several key issues with the SCAD bus system. Buses often don’t follow schedules or align with class times, causing long commutes. Stops and buses lack sufficient seating, and routes are unclear, making it difficult for students to navigate. Additionally, the app provides inaccurate information, including waiting times and emergency notifications.
key issues
Buses don’t follow schedules
Poor alignment with class times
Long commutes
Insufficient seating at stops and on buses
Confusing routes and unclear maps
Inaccurate waiting times and notifications
5
INSIGHTS OF CURRENT APP
Our research revealed two key insights about the SCAD bus system. First, students have no alternative but to rely on checking the school bus route for their commutes. Second, the fact that the school bus is free is a significant advantage, making it a preferred option despite its inefficiencies.
Students must check the school bus route as there are no other reliable options.
The bus being free makes it a popular choice despite the issues.
THE LIMITATIONS
The current Transloc app for the SCAD bus system has several limitations that affect usability and reliability for students. These include:
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Inaccurate bus tracking
The app often provides incorrect or delayed estimated arrival times, causing frustration for students trying to plan their commutes.
Lack of real-time notifications
There are no timely alerts for bus delays, cancellations, or emergencies, leaving students uninformed about important changes.
POOR INTEGRATION WITH CLASS PLAN
Bus schedules are not synced with class start times, resulting in students either rushing or having long waits between rides.
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UNCLEAR ROUTE INFORMATION
The app's maps and route details are confusing, making it difficult for students to understand which bus to take or where it will stop.
Lack of SEAT AVAILABILITY INFORMATION
The app does not show whether buses or stops have available seating, leading to overcrowded buses and uncomfortable waits.
INCONSISTENT UPDATES
When routes or schedules change, the app does not always reflect these updates promptly, leading to confusion and missed buses.
expectations
Students expect significant improvements to the SCAD bus service system, both in the app and the physical bus experience.
APP
Timely notifications for emergencies
More accurate information on bus locations and schedules
Better and clearer notifications, and a design that is easier to use
BUS & BUS STATIONS
More recognizable buses
Addition of more seats on buses and at stops
More stops to better accommodate their commutes.
the solution
Based on the current Transloc app, we identified areas for improvement through student feedback and focused on enhancing key functions in the user flow. By addressing concerns such as inaccurate information, lack of emergency notifications, and confusing routes, we redesigned the app to provide a smoother, more user-friendly experience. Our updates aim to better meet students’ needs and improve the overall efficiency of the SCAD bus system.
INTRODUCTION
The Transloc app enhances the SCAD bus system by aligning bus schedules with class times for improved punctuality, minimizing commuting time to boost well-being, and optimizing bus capacity to ensure equitable seating. It features color-coded buses for easier identification, clear route maps for efficient navigation, and real-time updates for accuracy. Additionally, the app provides timely notifications for emergencies and accurate waiting time estimates to enhance safety and reduce frustration.
How is our improved APP better than original one?
Improved Scheduling
Better alignment of bus schedules with class times, reducing delays and enhancing punctuality.
Enhanced Visibility
Color-coded buses and clearer route maps for easier navigation and quicker identification.
Optimized Commutes
Reduced travel time and increased efficiency, improving overall student well-being.
Real-Time Updates
Accurate, timely information and emergency notifications to build trust and reduce frustration.
mobile app
Bus schedule
Students can view the arrival times for specific bus lines and select the most convenient departure time based on their schedules.
Book the seat
After selecting their preferred bus arrival time, students can also choose their desired seat through Transloc.
broadcasting
REFLECTION
This project has underscored the impact that thoughtful design and user-centered development can have on enhancing everyday experiences. The improvements made to the school bus app not only address the immediate concerns of scheduling and seat selection but also contribute to a more seamless and enjoyable commute for students and parents alike. Moving forward, I am excited to apply the insights gained from this project to future endeavors, continuing to prioritize user needs and innovative solutions. Thanks too much for Niklas Jensen ‘s teaching.
next step
Expand User Testing: Conduct more extensive user testing with a broader range of users, including different age groups and tech-savviness levels. This can help uncover additional pain points or opportunities for improvement.
Integrate Advanced Technologies: Incorporate machine learning to analyze user behavior and preferences, offering personalized recommendations and alerts.
Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with school administrators, bus operators, and parents to ensure that the app meets all stakeholder needs and gather additional insights.