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Expanding on Google Maps' Step Free Directions

Project Type

Feature function

My Role

Product Designer

Tools

Figma

Contributions

User journey mapping

Ideation

High-fidelity Prototype

Interaction Design

Duration

September 2023 to June 2024

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Quick Start

How can we make Google Maps more accessible and inclusive?

I optimized Google Maps' step-free routes feature through improved iconography, and by making step-free route options available when picking the preferred mode of transit. In addition, reporting roadblocks, obstructions are made easier.

The Challenge

Wheelchair users are often left out of conversations or consideration when it comes to public transit and traveling.

What if an elevator is out of order? What if there are no elevators? What if there is construction or a roadblock and you cannot traverse the obstruction in the same way as an able-bodied person?

Product Preview

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The Process

I conducted two forms of research. I conducted secondary research by reading various different articles that gave me statistics about wheelchair users, accessibility and overall feelings on the state of transit accessibility. 

I was also able to connect with the owner of Abilities Expo and survey a handful of wheelchair users about how they felt about using public transit and Google Maps in their respective cities.

Flow 1: Finding Step Free Routes

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Flow II: Navigating Inclines on Routes

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Flow III: Reporting Obstructions on Routes

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The Solution

I came up with three different flows that improved the experience for wheelchair users on Google Maps. Improvements include

  • Making wheelchair accessible routes more obvious an accessible upon inputting directions

  • Recommending wheelchair accessible routes, taking difference in inclines into consideration​

  • ​Reporting roadblocks, accidents or delays for transit directions

 

These three improvements majorly change the way a mother, traveler or wheelchair user navigates both Google Maps and the city that they are in. 

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Major Takeaways and Next Steps

  • Next steps are to recruit participants to conduct a usability study to determine what further improvements can be implemented to the design

  • To improve transit accessibility, let your elected officials know. If you are a fellow New Yorker, then call the governor's office and express

  • Accessibility is not an issue that can be solved through a technical means. This is something that requires action from the ground up. As someone who lives in NYC, Congestion Pricing would have helped fund many accessibility upgrades through the NYC Subway System. With its implementation now in indefinitely suspended by Governor Kathy Hochul, it's important to contact your elected officials and Governor Hochul's office to let your voice be known that you want congestion pricing implemented. 

If you would like to check out this project, a link to the prototype can be found here.

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