companion

A third-party advocacy service that supports underserved commuters—pregnant women, children, the elderly, and the disabled. companion relies on a simple visual vocabulary to communicate specific needs while traveling. proposed as an interim solution to commuter apathy and subway inaccessibility, companion advocates for those who need it most.

senior thesis at parsons school of design

target issues

the apathetic social climate of the New York city subway
for some riders, it is difficult to access a seat, space, and assistance

objectives

generate empathy among commuters
advocate for underserved riders
equalize access to seats, space, and assistance

questions

are commuters able and willing to change their behavior?  
will advocacy for underserved commuters result in stigmatization?
can a visual system act as an agent of change?

solution

companion: A third-party advocacy service that supports commuters who need specific and reliable accommodations. companion provides the following assets for qualifying, underserved persons

assets

resource box: a comprehensive resource kit to secure subway accomodations
print advertising: in-subway advertisements to educate commuters about companion
website & app: access to program information and membership