Wright – THE BEAUTY OF TRANSPORT – THE TIMETABLES THEYRE A-CHANGING 2013

Description

The author notes that most public transport timetables are functional but visually uninspiring—examples from Southern Railway, Stagecoach and Southeastern convey necessary route and validity information yet fail to attract non-regular users. Despite digital journey planners, printed timetables remain valuable as offline backups for commuters and occasional travellers and represent a useful marketing channel to promote services, leisure trips and ticket offers. Eye-catching design increases the chance people will pick up and read timetables, creating commercial opportunities. South West Trains is highlighted for its illustrated timetable covers, which have grown more detailed and engaging over the years—the 2013 series especially praised. The author admits being drawn to a rack of these attractive leaflets, reading the contained adverts, and being persuaded to plan a visit to Kew Gardens using a 2-for-1 offer. The post argues that appealing design is both good practice and good business, and calls for more creative timetables.