ONCE YOU BUS, YOU CAN'T STOP
These stops are crafted to be easy to read and seamlessly integrated into the TFI brand. However, I can't help but feel they lack the vibrancy and personality that our public transport system deserves.
Transport for Ireland has an opportunity to inject more character into their signage by leveraging their distinctive rounded square logo. The TFI brand is undeniably simple, but that simplicity can sometimes lead to confusion about what belongs to them. A logo tucked away in the corner isn’t enough; we need to create a cohesive brand identity that resonates with commuters and enhances their experience.
While the new bus stops fulfill the necessity for a unified public bus service brand, the allure of public transport lies in the joy it brings. Transport design should be informative, clear, and consistent—but it doesn’t have to sacrifice personality. My goal is to add a touch of delight to the bus experience, encouraging more people to embrace public transport. To boost brand recognition, Transport for Ireland should consider making greater use of its cloverleaf motif, similar to how Transport for London employs its Roundel.
Here are some key design considerations that could enhance the user experience:
1. Prominence of Information: Users' first question is often, “Is this a bus stop?” Therefore, the word “BUS” should take center stage.
2. Icon Representation: Incorporate a double-decker bus icon at stops primarily serviced by these vehicles to enhance recognition.
3. Hierarchy of Information: The name of a bus stop holds less significance than that of a train station; while the name should be included, it doesn’t need to dominate the design.
4. Stop Number Priority: The stop number is essential for accessing real-time information, so this should be positioned as close to the user as possible.
5. Bilingual Compliance: Use “Stad” instead of “Stop” to comply with the Official Languages Act, ensuring adherence to government guidelines.
6. Route Number Clarity: Limit route numbers to three per line to maintain readability and clarity.
7. Route Variation Distinction: Capitalize route variation letters (e.g., 29A) for better differentiation, as uppercase letters are more distinctive.
8.Operator Information Reassessment: Consider eliminating the operator’s name from bus stops, as this information may not be valuable to the average bus user.
By prioritising these elements, we can create a more engaging and user-friendly experience that reflects the spirit of Dublin’s public transport system.
This new design then lends itself to being rolled out across the transport system, creating a holistic and cohesive design language that reassures passengers that this is Public transport and they can rely on it
