Chinatown Connect
Disciplines:
Project lead, Interface designer, Content Strategist
Deliverables:
Creative Intervention, Web Interface
Setting:
User-Centered Design Solutions
Project Intent
Vancouver’s Chinatown has long served as a cultural hub and landmark for the city’s Chinese community, preserving a rich history and heritage while attracting tourists as a renowned sightseeing destination. However, the neighborhood is now facing significant challenges. Gentrification is reshaping the area, leading to the displacement of Chinese businesses and diminishing the cultural essence of Chinatown.
During a survey conducted in the neighborhood, it was observed that many information plaques explaining landmarks and street art were smeared and difficult to read. Additionally, the audio guide contact provided on these plaques was outdated. The descriptions of cultural and historical sites were fragmented and scattered, making it challenging for visitors to access cohesive and meaningful information about the area.
User Personas
Emily, 28 New resident
A young adult born and raised in Vancouver, recently moved to the Chinatown neighborhood. With a deep curiosity about her surroundings, she seeks to stay informed about the latest events in the area while immersing herself in the rich culture and history of the community.
Kelly, 59 Business Owner
Kelly has owned a souvenir shop in Chinatown for over 24 years. Since COVID-19, she has experienced reduced foot traffic and a corresponding decline in revenue. Eager to adapt, she wants to promote her business online but struggles with the challenges of navigating new technology.
Ethan, 31 Tourist
Ethan, a tourist from US, has a passion for exploring Chinatowns in every city he visits. While exploring Vancouver’s Chinatown, he found the information about landmarks to be confusing. Only a few places provided introductions, and these were fragmented and lacked clear directions on how to navigate from one landmark to the next.
Solutions
Street Signs Renewal
A newly installed floor-embedded, sequenced street sign system offers tourists all the essential information they need.
Informative Web Platform
A web-based information platform featuring time-sensitive updates consolidates all business and event information.
Accessible Audio Guide
A multilingual audio guide accessible via phone is to accommodate seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those without access to smartphones.
Interconnected Information System
All three interventions are linked, forming an integrated and comprehensive guide to Chinatown's culture, news, businesses, and events. This system ensures a cohesive and accessible experience for all users.
Intervention: Street Signs Reinstallation
Addressing Issues with the Existing:
1. Inefficient communication between user groups
2. Insufficient information for historical landmarks
3. Difficulties in accessing information
Intervention: Info Web Page
Intervention: Dial System
Addressing Issues with the Existing:
1.Lack of audio option for self-guided tour
2.Inaccessible to people vision difficulties
3.Inaccessible to user who prefer audio or without smart phone
User Scenarios
Typography and Color Palatte
