Redesigning Public Transit: Improving User Experience in the Spokane Transit Connect App
Faculty Mentor
Meg Lybbert
Presentation Type
Poster
Start Date
4-14-2026 2:00 PM
End Date
4-14-2026 4:00 PM
Location
PUB NCR
Primary Discipline of Presentation
Design
Abstract
This project presents a user experience (UX) redesign of the Spokane Transit Authority (STA) bus application with the goal of making public transportation navigation clearer, simpler, and less stressful for everyday riders. The redesign focuses on creating a cozy, welcoming interface that helps users quickly access routes, reminders, and travel information without feeling overwhelmed by unnecessary features. The project was inspired by personal experience using the STA Connect app and observations from other riders who rely on public transportation in their daily routines. Research included reviewing several transit apps, analyzing user feedback and app store reviews, and identifying common usability challenges. From this research, the redesign prioritizes clear navigation, simplified information hierarchy, and visual elements that make important information easier to understand at a glance. Using UX design methods such as planning and discovery, comparative research, empathy mapping, and iterative prototyping, the project developed a new interface that highlights essential tools like route information, expanded map views, and reminders that notify users when it is time to leave for the bus stop based on walking distance. Additional concepts explored include real-time bus tracking, offline functionality, and contextual alerts for weather or traffic conditions. Overall, this project demonstrates how thoughtful UX design can improve everyday civic technologies and support more accessible public transit experiences.
Recommended Citation
Ramirez Castro, Ashley, "Redesigning Public Transit: Improving User Experience in the Spokane Transit Connect App" (2026). 2026 Symposium. 7.
https://dc.ewu.edu/srcw_2026/ps_2026/p3_2026/7
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Redesigning Public Transit: Improving User Experience in the Spokane Transit Connect App
PUB NCR
This project presents a user experience (UX) redesign of the Spokane Transit Authority (STA) bus application with the goal of making public transportation navigation clearer, simpler, and less stressful for everyday riders. The redesign focuses on creating a cozy, welcoming interface that helps users quickly access routes, reminders, and travel information without feeling overwhelmed by unnecessary features. The project was inspired by personal experience using the STA Connect app and observations from other riders who rely on public transportation in their daily routines. Research included reviewing several transit apps, analyzing user feedback and app store reviews, and identifying common usability challenges. From this research, the redesign prioritizes clear navigation, simplified information hierarchy, and visual elements that make important information easier to understand at a glance. Using UX design methods such as planning and discovery, comparative research, empathy mapping, and iterative prototyping, the project developed a new interface that highlights essential tools like route information, expanded map views, and reminders that notify users when it is time to leave for the bus stop based on walking distance. Additional concepts explored include real-time bus tracking, offline functionality, and contextual alerts for weather or traffic conditions. Overall, this project demonstrates how thoughtful UX design can improve everyday civic technologies and support more accessible public transit experiences.
