Implications of System Usability on Intermodal Facility Design

摘要

Ensuring good design of intermodal transportation facilities is critical for effective and satisfactory operation. Passenger use of the facilities is often hindered by inadequate space, a poor layout, or lack of signage. This project aims to improve the design of transportation facilities by first understanding how passengers use the facilities. A cognitive model was created for three common airport tasks: departing, transferring, and arriving at an airport. The model, which defines the physical and cognitive steps required for a passenger to complete each task, was validated using focus groups. Researchers then visited 10 airports to assess the ability of a passenger to complete the tasks using those exact steps at each facility. The results of the model, focus groups, and airport visits were used to develop a number of design guidelines addressing multiple aspects within a facility, including signage, facility layout, and user tasks and processes.