Authors:
Linda Bogren, Daniel Fallman, Catharina Henje,
Umeå Institute of Design, Umeå University, Sweden.

Abstract:
This paper describes a commissioned, user-centered inclusive design case study where an exceptionally heterogeneous group of users have been involved in all phases. With the overall aim of seeking to make public transport more accessible, this project has specifically focused on information issues relating to train stations. The objective has been to design and implement a fully functional prototype of an information terminal that can provide accessible information to as wide a group of users as possible. To fulfill this goal, we have taken a user-centered path, working with two groups of users. First, a heterogeneous group of users took active part in the early phases of the project, allowing us to quickly assess new design ideas and mock-up prototypes; provide entirely new design ideas in a participatory manner; as well as help us abandon some of our own preconceptions. A second, similarly heterogeneous user group, more formally tested and evaluated a finalized prototype of the system in situ at a real train station, in real time, and using real train information. Following the results of this evaluation, we have proposed a number of improvements to the system.

Keywords:
Inclusive design, design for all, accessibility, user involvement, heterogeneous users, information, travel, public transport, train

Citation:
Bogren, L., Fallman, D., Henje, C. (2009) User-centered Inclusive Design: Making Public Transport Accessible, Proceedings of Include 2009, International Conference on Inclusive Design, Royal College of Art, London, UK, 5-8 April.

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