OVERVIEW
001
Project
Overview
TTC Aware combines the functionality of a general transit app with the community-driven engagement of Reddit, all within one platform designed to make riders feel safer and more aware while using the TTC.
The app relies on user feedback to provide real-time updates on safety incidents, delays, and disruptions, offering a more reliable source of information rather than waiting for official TTC updates.
What makes this application unique is that it empowers riders to share their experiences and report issues. TTC Aware puts the power of safety directly into the hands of commuters, fostering a more connected and informed community within Toronto’s transit system.
Problem
Toronto's public transit system, the TTC, is vital for the city’s daily commute, but rising violent incidents, particularly on the subway, have made riders feel unsafe. These events, combined with the lack of real-time safety information, have led to a sense of unpredictability and risk. Passengers are often left in the dark about ongoing threats or disruptions, which makes using the subway feel unreliable and dangerous. While the TTC has tried to improve security, many riders still feel that it falls short in addressing these concerns, leaving them hesitant to rely on public transit.
Final Designs &
Solutions
Over the course of three weeks, I designed an experience that serves as a one-stop shop for Torontonians navigating the TTC. It’s an experience built to keep riders safe, informed, and connected to a supportive community.
TTC Aware Feature
Real-Time Safety and Delay Alerts for Smarter Travel
86% of users surveyed wanted real-time updates to stay informed about their travel plans and feel safer. With TTC Aware, users receive real-time alerts on safety risks and delays, helping them navigate the fastest, safest routes with confidence. By staying informed, travelers can make better decisions on the go for a smoother and more secure journey.
TTC Aware Feature
A Community of Dedicated Riders
TTC Aware is powered by the people who use it. It’s not just about getting you to your destination faster (which it helps you do) —it’s about building a safer transit experience through community input. By actively using the TTC and contributing to our forum, riders can share real-time insights on hazards, delays, and safety risks. This collective effort creates a powerful feedback loop that helps make the TTC safer for everyone, while allowing users to feel a part of a community.
TTC Aware Feature
Report an alert in under a minute
TTC Aware is designed for simplicity, making incident reporting quick and seamless. Users can submit alerts in under a minute, while the backend efficiently filters and categorizes reports by station. This ensures accurate, timely information reaches the right people, helping everyone stay informed and safe.
TTC Aware
Trustworthy and Secure
TTC Aware is a safe, reliable space for real riders. A strict code of conduct and strong safety measures ensure only accurate, relevant alerts are shared. Access is limited to Toronto users with email verification, and flagged posts help maintain trust. Together, we’re building a secure, user-driven community to improve the TTC experience.
DISCOVER
002
Discover
Phase
Conduct research and gather insights to understand user needs, challenges, and opportunities.
User Research Plan
We explored how modern commuters make decisions by conducting five in-depth interviews to understand their motivations, safety concerns, and expectations when using public transit. Insights from these interviews helped inform a survey of twelve participants, allowing us to identify key trends in how riders plan their routes and stay informed about potential disruptions or safety issues.
81%
Percentage of riders surveyed reported safety concerns.
Many expressed that these concerns significantly impacted their comfort and sense of security while using the TTC. One respondent mentioned feeling uneasy due to a recent increase in reported incidents, which made them reconsider their daily commute.
56%
Percentage of riders surveyed have experienced harassment or assault.
Many individuals reported that such experiences had a profound impact on their overall sense of safety while using the TTC. One respondent shared that an incident of harassment made them feel increasingly anxious about their daily commute, prompting them to alter their travel times and routes.
86%
Percentage of riders surveyed who wished they had real-time updates.
Many indicated that having real-time information about safety incidents at stations would significantly enhance their sense of security. One respondent noted that knowing about any ongoing issues in real-time could help them avoid potentially unsafe situations.
LOW FI & MID FI SKETCHES
003
Define
Phase
I sketched low-fidelity and mid-fidelity wireframes, refining the user flows and layout to improve navigation and usability. To validate the design, I conducted usability testing, gathering feedback to identify pain points and make necessary adjustments before moving into high-fidelity designs.
Usability testing findings & iterations
I conducted a small usability test with 4 individuals. I was looking to test clarity, completion and comprehension of the different features.
Before
User testing revealed that users wanted a clear destination arrival time.
After
To address this, I updated the copy to clearly show each routes destination arrival time.
Before
Users requested a way to give feedback on each alert to determine if the alert was still “active”
After
To address this, I added a prompt to each alert, making it easy for users to provide feedback and ensuring all alerts are accurate.
Before
The heart icon was confusing for users, and they requested a clearer symbol to indicate that they had seen the alert.
After
To address this, I added copy and the eye symbol to clarify if a user had seen the alert.
Before
Users requested copy that clearly states that any inappropriate language could result in account removal and to ensure posts are accurate.
After
To address this, I updated the post report pop-up to ensure users understand the risk of inappropriate posts.
STYLE GUIDE
004
Style
Guide
This guide represents the core principles for all design related to the TTC Aware brand. This includes interfaces, internal materials, marketing assets, and promotional materials. The goal of this deck is to highlight all of the precursor material to the design system.
FINAL DESIGN
005
Final Design &
Solution
The final design of TTC Aware offers an intuitive, user-friendly interface that enhances the experience of Toronto’s transit riders.
The app streamlines how commuters can stay informed, connect with other riders, and feel empowered to share real-time updates on safety incidents, delays, and disruptions. Extensive testing and refinement ensured a seamless, accessible, and reliable platform for users, making it easy to navigate and feel more confident while traveling on the TTC.