Cartledge – SEEING HOW THEY RUN 1995

Description

This multi-page article, published in the March 1996 issue of the Information Design Association’s (IDeAs) newsletter, offers a comprehensive historical perspective on public transport information design. Authored by John Cartledge, Assistant Secretary of the London Regional Passengers Committee, it encapsulates insights from his February 1995 IDA address. Spanning five visually rich pages, the document features numerous examples of bus maps—including London’s ‘squircle’ innovation—detailed timetables, and explanatory illustrations, providing concrete context for the challenges discussed. Drawing on various studies and reports from the 1980s and 90s, it delivers a trustworthy and academically informed critique of information shortcomings, low investment, and the unique design requirements for bus networks. This piece remains a valuable historical resource for understanding the foundational issues and ongoing relevance of clear, accessible public transport communication.