Group 2's final design prototype represents an amalgamation of the three designs explored during Phase II. After considering the feedback provided from our peers, the final feature set was chosen to ensure that each identified user group could benefit from the app's services. Those that provided feedback noted the simplicity of Prototype I, the geo-location capabilities of Prototype II and how Prototype III caters to novices. Ackerman describes the social-technical gap as the "divide between what we know we
must support socially and what we can support technically" (2). In order to shrink the social-technical gap, Group 2 formed a final prototype that combined the strengths of each prototype, in order to best serve the anticipated user groups.
The main features include:
1. Trip planning by address/location. 2. Geo-located service identification. 3. Customization via saved routes. 4. A full view of timetables optimized for mobile viewing. 5. A section devoted to visitors.
User Flow I: Trip Planning Task
Relevant User Groups: The Urban Dweller The Visitor The Student Here, users are able to plan their trip with the app. Users enter the start of their trip and the destination. There is autocomplete, so the app provides possible addresses. This prevents users from entering invalid address and cross-streets. Then, available routes are provided. The user can choose which route to travel based on their own preferences. Then, details are provided about transfers, fare, and travel time. Users can see the next departure with a map of the route provided.
User Flow II: Geo-location Task
Relevant User Groups: The Urban Dweller The Visitor The Student The Commuter
This provides information relative to the user's current location. A map is shown with the user symbolized by a flashing pin and the closest SEPTA stations. Information on the available routes is provided, as well as the next departure.
User Flow III: View Schedules
Relevant User Groups: The Urban Dweller The Visitor The Student The Commuter
This capability allows users to see schedules for various SEPTA services. The user chooses which service they want to see, in this example the subway. Then, they choose the route. The user then chooses the beginning and ending
User Flow IV: Saved Routes
Relevant User Groups: The Urban Dweller The Commuter
The saved routes are shown in the first menu, with their search name, start and destination. Each route provides information regarding transfers, fare and travel time. The next departure is shown with the map of the route. The approaching SEPTA service flashes when it's arrival is in less than a minute.
User Flow V: The Visitor
Relevant User Groups: The Visitor The Student
The Visitor menu provides SEPTA information for visitors to Philadelphia, or those that are not familiar with using SEPTA. The information provided includes fare information for the various SEPTA services, maps, information regarding geo-location and planning trips. There is also a help menu to troubleshoot problems with the app or with SEPTA travel.