New maps for BMTC Majestic: bringing data, design and government together

What is this talk about?

Recently I worked with BMTC, WRI India and Villgro at Bengawalk to redesign the 20-year-old maps at Bengaluru's most iconic bus station, Majestic. Majestic, the heart of the city's transit system, has 300+ bus routes, 36 platforms, a railway station, and now a metro interchange. With over 3-4 lakh daily visitors, clear navigation is essential. This talk is about the process that goes into making such data accessible: categorisation and filtering of public data, working out the design system based on user research and feedback, and working with the government to help them see the value of good design for cities.

The core ideas of this talk:

1. The process behind map-making for citizens: user research and site analysis, data, design and implementation

2. India needs to invest in user-centric design to transform its cities

3. We can start small and think big— governments can invest in pilot projects in key areas before scaling to the broader city

Why is data visualisation so important for public design?

Most of the work we do at Bengawalk is about making the city of Bengaluru more accessible with design, tech and storytelling. Getting to do the data visualisation of public data —BMTC routes at Majestic Bus Station— was important because:

1. It makes the complex clear: people are now able to skim 150+ routes in seconds. Also, relationships between platforms and their directionalities in the city emerged for the first time, to the delight of both city nerds and regular commuters alike.

2. It puts us in the minds of the people: it pushed us to analyse and understand how people actually navigate, instead of designing in a vacuum. This can be especially useful for government officials to experience in order to serve the people.

3. It feels good: good design that helps you find your way can reduce unnecessary confusion and frustration. Also, it makes the space more pleasant and transparent.

These are things that the people of any city deserve.

The main sections and flow of the presentation:

1. The difference good wayfinding & signage can make

2. The process behind making the maps for BMTC Majestic:

2.1 user research and site analysis

2.2 categorising and filtering public data

2.3 working out the design system

2.4 public feedback, stakeholder feedback, and multiple iterations

2.5 on-site implementation

3. Why data visualisation so important for public design

4. How to make the government value and invest in good design for cities

Intended audience:

Government officials, urban planners, designers from any field