Redesigning the Regionwide Bus Monitor Interface

This question marked the starting point for the user-centred redesign of the bus monitors. The goal was to develop an interface that provides orientation, safety, and trust — technically feasible, compatible with new mobility services, and scalable from SMILE 24 to the whole of Schleswig-Holstein.

A look inside Schleswig-Holstein’s buses reveals the challenge: today’s information displays tend to confuse more than they help. Inconsistent designs, varying representations of the “string of pearls”, small font sizes, and low contrast make it especially difficult for people with impairments to orient themselves quickly. The presentation differs widely across transport operators — a real challenge for occasional riders and tourists alike.

Before a single pixel was designed, we began with a comprehensive context analysis:

• A benchmarking study examined the interfaces of other transport providers.

• A survey among transport companies clarified technical requirements and feasibility.

• Observation studies and interviews provided a realistic picture of in-bus usage needs.

• Expert discussions with specialists from DB and transport operators deepened our understanding of operational challenges.

• VDV guidelines and standards ensured compliance with industry norms.

All of these insights informed the design and supported one goal: creating bus monitor passenger information that reflects the state of the art while truly addressing people’s real needs.

The redesigned interface intentionally draws on familiar design patterns from smartphone and wearable ecosystems. This reference to everyday interfaces enables instant recognition and lowers the barrier to entry — especially for user groups who rely on simple, clear information.

Whether boarding, riding, or alighting, the design provides orientation — unobtrusive, yet reliable.

While we created a version ready for immediate implementation, we also planned elements for the future. These come into play once, for example, comprehensive real-time data becomes available. This vision acts as a guiding star, aligning all stakeholders toward the same direction and ensuring continuous improvement, despite current limitations and challenges.

The final usability testing was carried out with an inclusive target group. Twelve passengers with different visual impairments and cognitive limitations were invited. The usability testing was carried out directly on the bus, on the Autokraft premises. The new interface was simulated realistically using an animated video. The evaluation combined various methods: think-aloud procedure, structured observation and semi-structured interviews.

The participants were recruited via the NAH.SH private pool. The pool was founded in 2021 under the motto: Testers for local transport. Since then, it has continuously provided genuine, diverse user insights for the further development of NAH.SH services.

The new bus monitor design is modular and scalable, ready for use by transport companies throughout Schleswig-Holstein, above all Autokraft and Lübecker Stadtwerke. Adapted to the respective corporate design, but always with the same familiar layout for passengers, because true orientation comes from recognition.