Bridge is a platform that provides wheelchair-accessible information about various venues and real-time accessible ride-hailing services for enhancing mobility impaired people’s fair social activity opportunities in public spaces.
Bridge
TIME
May 2022 - Aug 2022 (14 Weeks)
ROLE
UX Research and Visual Design
TOOLS
Figma, Adobe Photoshop
Solo
TEAM
Regardless of physical or mental condition, equal opportunity in social systems should by available to everyone. Every individual deserves this opportunity under any circumstances, and one of the essential factors to enjoy a fair experience is unrestricted mobility. By having an on-demand accessible vehicle system such as a regular accessible ride-hailing service, people with disabilities can independently move around more frequently without obstacles.
Project Opportunity
In order to provide appropriate information and ride services to enhance mobility-impaired people's access, we first need to understand their obstacles.
The Problem
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Social Structure
Since disabled people are a minority, most of the social system has been primarily structured for able-bodied people.
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Limit Information
Disabled people always face difficulties when they search for accessible services they need in their daily lives. Information barriers occur due to the lack of resources.
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Lack of Specified Service
Disabled-specific services are lacking in our society. Most daily activities-based apps are for abled people, providing accommodation for the disabled as additional features.
Wheelchair users face significant obstacles, including inaccessible transportation, poorly designed buildings, and social stigma, which collectively hinder their mobility and quality of life.
Research
wheelchair users reported difficulty finding accurate accessibility information about venues online, leading to challenges in planning visits.
72%
30-45
Minutes
Wheelchair users experience longer average wait times for an accessible taxi compared to non-disabled passengers.
Many individuals have encountered negative experiences with ride-hailing services, such as drivers refusing entry into the vehicle. Additionally, some venues are inaccessible when socializing with friends, leading to embarrassment and frustration.
User Interview
Estelle H.
Graduate School Student / 35yrs
“I feel embarrassed and upset when I cannot enter the destination with friends or family due to inaccessibility.”
Sharon K.
Senior Program Manager / 37yrs
"Some booking applications don't accurately provide accessible information. It would be helpful if wheelchair users could report back about the venue."
David Y.
College Student / 23yrs
“I wish there were a particular platform for wheelchair users. Especially, we can use a ride service without any concerns and enjoy more outdoor activities.”
User Persona
The goal is providing fair daily outdoor activity opportunities for mobility-impaired people and connect them to society more.
Goal
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Reserve A Real-time accessible Ride
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Provide Accessible Information
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Share Accessibility Experience
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Business Owners' Engagement
The Solution
Users can save their wheelchair information and health conditions for assistance. Drivers can check their profiles in advance to assist them correctly and efficiently.
Wheelchair information profile
Users can grasp the level of accessibility for each category to to their search location at a glance and obtain detailed information for their convenience.
Searching accessibility information
Provide detailed and accessible information level with categorization for easy navigation.
Can reserve a ride directly from the search result.
Possibly find accessibility level for each category and see the detailed information, images, and reviews.
Write reviews & Information update request
Users can write reviews and request accessibility updates if repairs or improvements are needed for better accommodations.
Users can request updates on accessibility information for specific categories.
Check real-time updates on accessibility information.
Since the role and importance of user accessibility are different for each category, users have the ability to rate their satisfaction with accessibility using sliders, promoting engagement and enabling them to express their feelings effectively. Each category is presented with a level indicator, represented by sliders instead of numerical values, allowing users to quickly assess the level at a glance.
Rating system
Users can select their preferred vehicle based on their wheelchair type and reserve a ride. They can also communicate directly with the driver to request any necessary assistance.
Reserve a ride
I designed the information architecture to create a smooth and logical flow for users navigating the platform. The main focus is on two essential parts: finding accessibility information and reserving an accessible ride. By prioritizing these key tasks, the platform aligns with how users naturally interact, making their experience as intuitive and effortless as possible.
Sitemap
Userflow
User Journey Map
I conducted user testing with the initial frame ideation to determine how easily users can navigate and find the information they need.
Through user testing, I discovered that users need detailed accessibility information for each category, such as entrances, elevators, restrooms, ramps, stairs, lifts, and parking, to quickly find the information they need at a glance.
User Testing
Visual Design
The logo design embodies the arch of a bridge, symbolizing connectivity and progress. The bottom section depicts the dynamic movement of wheelchair wheels, representing inclusivity and accessibility. Together, these elements convey a message of empowerment, bridging gaps and facilitating smooth transitions for all individuals, regardless of mobility.
Logo Design
The primary color chosen for the platform is a vibrant orange, aimed at offering users a delightful and pleasant experience during their interactions. Additionally, deep blue hues have been incorporated to convey a sense of reliability, signaling to users that the platform provides trustworthy and dependable resources.
