mbta redesign
the problem i was addressing
This project aimed to develop an interactive design solution to address an issue with the MBTA system. I chose to explore ways to reduce the impact of MBTA noise by creating an app that connects passengers with local Boston artists.
The problem I wanted to investigate was the loud screeching noise the MBTA trains make within the tunnels. My goal was to find a way to minimize or distract passengers from the noise, not with an engineering solution, but rather a form of interactive design.
my research question
“How to minimize the noise of the MBTA using an app that brings users and local Boston artists together”
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Passengers and Artists!
“Passengers” encompasses anyone who regularly uses the MBTA, has access to a mobile phone, and would like a distraction from the noise of the train during their commute.
“Artists” refers to local Boston artists. My initial idea was to include just local Boston musicians since music is a common distraction from noise. However, I would like to find a way to also include other types of artists.
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My original idea had been to have stations within the train cabins where people could put on headphones to listen to music or other audio, similar to a museum exhibit. However, I realized this had too many logistical issues with sanitation and limited usage.
I decided to change my idea to be entirely QR code-based so that more people could access the application through their phones. The application featured music by local Boston artists based on the MBTA line that the passenger was currently on.
My goal had been to create a way for Boston local artists to reach a larger platform of people.
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At the time of this project, I was only able to create the interface for the passenger’s experience. However, for future iterations, I had wanted to figure out how local artists could manually add their music links to the app. This would have allowed musicians to curate what passengers listened to, rather than a machine or random generator providing recommendations. Another idea for future work had been to include other forms of artists who could advertise their work.
the final prototype
When passengers scan the QR code on the flyers posted in train cabins, they will be redirected to this app on their phones.
Based on the MBTA line they are currently riding, the app will display local Boston artists from that area. Each artist's profile would include a brief bio and a link to their music on the user's preferred listening platform.
