Yusrina, Ihara and Sunaga – WHEN MULTIPLE ROUTE MAP DESIGNS ARE USED BY THE SAME BUS COMPANY – CAUSE, USABILITY TESTING AND IMPLICATIONS 2024

Description

Forthcoming in the esteemed Information Design Journal 29(2) in November 2024, “When multiple route map designs are used by the same bus company: Cause, usability testing, and implications” offers a vital look into a common urban challenge. Authored by Ilma Yusrina, Hisayasu Ihara, and Shoji Sunaga, this document provides a concise, text-only abstract of an in-depth, three-part study. The research employs a rigorous mixed-methods approach, encompassing observations, interviews with map creators, comprehensive usability testing, and user research. While this abstract is textual, the full paper will likely feature illustrative imagery of the 24 distinct map designs identified within one bus company. Highlighting the negative impact of design inconsistencies and a strong user preference for unified designs, this significant work offers critical, trustworthy insights for information designers, urban planners, and transport authorities aiming to improve passenger comprehension and system reliability.