Case

Creating a physical mock-up of The Hague's new TINA tram.

We value the role of physical mock-ups in the design process, catering to diverse user needs. These tangible representations are invaluable for communicating user experience concepts and gaining insights. Used alongside virtual reality and visualisations, they provide a comprehensive perspective on product engagement.

Our goal was to bring the TINA tram design to life through a 1:1 mock-up, engaging different user groups and stakeholders. Beyond serving as a practical tool for testing accessibility, ergonomics, and functionalities, the project aimed for a holistic experience, incorporating real materials, graphics, and brand elements directly into the mock-up, showcased in a specially designed showroom.

Stadler Rail, with 80 years of experience, tailored the TINA tram to meet The Hague’s public transportation needs, prioritising increased seating capacity, panoramic windows, and improved accessibility.

Case Information

Client

Stadler Rail

Scope

  1. Product design
  2. CMF design
  3. Game engine development
  4. Virtual reality development
  5. Prototyping

Web

Design for user testing

The 22-meter-long, 2.65-meter-wide mock-up included a driver's cabin and passenger compartment with wheelchair-accessible areas. It featured a platform to simulate real-life situations. Meeting standards within the mock-up was crucial for accurate testing.

The design process aimed to closely simulate the tram's elements, colours, and materials, optimising it for user testing. The open passenger compartment allowed for shared spaces during tests, ensuring realistic scenarios.

“A 1:1 physical mock-up allows for proper tangible evaluation of the user journey for all user groups; it is an irreplaceable tool.”
Antti Mäkelä, Head of Strategy & Design

Building philosophy

Our modular construction allowed for assembly in Helsinki, with final detailing in The Hague. Attention to structural strength was paramount, using a hidden plywood grid and carefully selected materials.

Vinyl wrapping finalised the geometry, imitating colours and glossiness, and adding graphic elements for brand and product communication.

Locals actively participated in the process, offering insights on touchpoints like handrail placement and flooring colour.

Engaging
the locals

As The Hague expands, its operator HTM aimed to evaluate the user journey across diverse groups. Residents were invited to experience the mock-up within an HTM site, where specific design aspects were presented for feedback.

Topics like handrail placement, flooring colour, and stop button design were showcased with alternative options, gathering valuable insights for integration into the design process.

Results

  1. Enabling tangible user journey evaluation for all user groups
  2. Engaging the local residents

Are you interested?

Antti Mäkelä

Head of Strategy & Products,
Partner
+358 50 547 4912

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