Transport Equality App
Users of the transport network are varied. Their physical, sight, sound or cognitive variations place different demands on all aspects of the transport journey. Although the vehicle experience forms largest majority of time of any journey, it is the shift between transport modes that can raise the most accessibility issues for disabled travellers.
The Equality Act
The Equality Act 2010 ensures companies that provide public transport services, such as buses, trains and taxis cannot discriminate against Disabled people and requires them to take steps to make their services accessible for disabled people.
Although disabled people have the ability to act upon their rights, the process tends to be more reactive than proactive. Accessibility issues are acted upon by operators when issues are identified, often when already caused prejudice or harm. At this time, it may be too late and financial or legal implications may be in process.
To identify issues and make ‘reasonable adjustments’, transport operators will appoint accessibility consultants to audit their facility. A process that can be costly, timely and often lacking the user involvement of the disabled community. The Equality App intends to disrupt the way disabled people can influence and interact with this auditing process to ensure their voice is heard before it’s too late.
Where a physical feature puts a disabled person at a substantial disadvantage in relation to a relevant matter in comparison with persons who are not disabled, to take such steps as it is reasonable to have to take to avoid the disadvantage
Features
Comparing ways of collecting data
The Analogue method (existing)
– Measuring tape, written check-lists and camera are common for collecting data
– A written report, spreadsheet or action plan used to present data
– Limited use of accurate digital instruments or computer calculations to determine if an issue is compliant with latest government regulations.
– No means for digitally capturing data in a consistent format or at any usable scale.
The Future method (digital)
– Audits can be carried out by anybody using a smart phone
– Information is captured and stored digitally. Results can be shared with wider audience
– Efficiency of data collection is quicker and easier. Data capture is in universal format across all users
– Inbuilt sensors for light, lidar, noise, gradient can be utilized
