New York MTA Signage & Map Redesign

2024

(collaboration with Christie Sung, RISD ID)

CATEGORIES

graphic design
uiux design
physical prorotyping
engineering

MEDIUMS

ARDUINO BOARD
PIN LED
MASONITE
ALUMINUM SHEET

PROGRAMS

ADOBE ILLUSTRATOR
ADOBE PHOTOSHOP

THE CONTEXT

Despite its status as one of the busiest cities of the world, New York City's subway system, one of the oldest and longest, faces challenges due to its age and continuous expansions. The diverse architectural styles and signage, resulting from numerous renovations, add to its complexity. Frequent maintenance and service updates further complicate navigation for both residents and the influx of global visitors.

Massimo Vignelli, Unimark (1967)

a graphic design project
abstracted, not geographically accurate

Michael Hertz Associates (1997)

the model of the current NYC subway map
confusing for those not familiar with the system

Work & Co (2021)

the most recent redesign
“loved more by designers than New Yorkers”

THE APPROACH

redesign aims to align with the current NYC subway design identity while prioritizing simplicity and readability in order to ensure that commuters can quickly and easily decipher the map

THE CHALLENGES

readability: emphasize simplicity by highlighting essential details and removing unnecessary or extraneous information
intuitive: reduce complexity by splitting information into two distinct maps (1) (2) in order to make interpretation more straightforward
live information: utilize LED technology to dynamically display real-time updates on service changes and disruptions
low cost: offer realistically applicable solutions that provide significant improvements with minimal financial investment
inclusivity: feature visual cues to accommodate varying levels of familiarity with technology, English, and the NYC subway

full-scale LED screen maps (1):
placed in and outside the stations, these full scale maps employ dynamic functionality to convey live information on line operations, service disruptions, and schedule-specific details by illuminating or dimming certain lines, stations, and accessibility signs

platform-level pin LED maps (2):
installed at train platforms, these zoomed-in maps display only relevant lines and destinations available at each platform; lightbox blinks to indicate the upcoming station stops for the incoming train, addressing the challenge of multiple train lines departing from the same platform and offering intuitive visual cue for commuters to identify their desired destination while boarding the train

THE OUTCOME

This redesign of MTA's NYC subway wayfinding system aims to enhance navigation for New York’s complex subway network. By integrating illuminated LED maps as a crucial elements, the proposed signage offers real-time updates and guidance tailored to users' locations and destinations. With a focus on digestibility and accessibility, the LED maps streamline information dissemination and address the needs of subway users from all backgrounds: from tourists to technology-averse daily commuters. Comprising a full scale (1) and platform-level (2) view, the maps dynamically indicate operational lines and stations, minimizing confusion. This approach provides essential updates in easy visual form, filling the gap left by online sources and inaudible announcements, improving the overall subway experience for everyone.

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Kaish.