Linh Dao (Industrial Design)
Linh Dao
SHAPE: shape-shift the CTA’s train navigation system
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is a vital resource for millions of residents and visitors who rely on public transportation in the City of Chicago. Sadly, many individuals with color blindness struggle to navigate the city due to the reliance on color-coded navigation systems. The National Institute of Health reveals that color blindness affects approximately 5% to 10% of the US population, with 270,000 people in Chicago living with color blindness. But that doesn't mean they should be left behind. To address this issue, a new system called SHAPE has been developed to enhance the effectiveness of the CTA's wayfinding system for the colorblind community.
SHAPE stands for Straightforward, Home, Appealing/Aesthetic, Perceptible, and Eventful. It is a visual system of enhanced CTA’s color coding and supplementary geometric forms that reduces the reliance on color wayfinding for people with color blindness. By implementing assistive infographic communications and making necessary adjustments to the existing CTA navigation system, SHAPE will provide a seamless navigation system that accommodates individuals with color blindness, and make the CTA a more inclusive and user-friendly experience for everyone.
