Morgagni and Grison – EAST OR WEST 2019

Description

The study examined how schematic transit map design affects passengers’ route decisions on the southern RER D line in Paris after a service change created two competing routes between Juvisy and Corbeil‑Essonnes. Using full‑size printed maps, 256 regular Île‑de‑France users planned ten journeys each across eight map variations manipulating angle, orientation, perceived directness, route length (20%/40% increases) and station complexity. Hypotheses predicted preference for the shorter eastern route and stronger effects from combined or larger distortions. Results showed participants generally favored the eastern (shorter) route; Vertical, Directness and 20% ratio conditions increased eastern choices versus control, while familiar users were less influenced by the larger 40% change. Composite modifications (Directness+20% and especially Directness+20%+complex Juvisy) produced more errors and atypical choice patterns, shifting transfers toward Viry‑Châtillon when Juvisy looked complex. The study concludes that modest map redesigns can nudge passenger behavior, whereas excessive complexity or large distortions may confuse users; further work will address spatiotemporal cues and user knowledge.