How can the user experience at train platforms in Germany be improved through user-centered design?
Topic Explanation
The topic I have chosen for this research course—and potentially for my master’s thesis—focuses on the User Experience (UX) of train stations, with a particular emphasis on train platforms and the ways in which users interact with these spaces. My goal is to better understand how design, infrastructure, and user behaviour intersect in this specific environment, and how these factors influence the overall experience of passengers.
The geographical focus of my research will be Germany, as this is the country I know best and where I have gathered the most personal experience as a regular train user.
Personal Motivation
My motivation for choosing this topic stems partly from my own observations and sometimes rather unpleasant experiences on train platforms throughout Germany. Issues such as unclear signage, confusing platform layouts, overcrowding and a general lack of comfort have made me think about how these environments could be improved from a user-centered perspective. At the same time, my interest is also academic and professional. During my bachelor’s studies in Nuremberg, I briefly touched on the idea of examining train stations through the lens of user experience design. However, at that time I only had the chance to scratch the surface of the topic. Now, through this research course and the upcoming master’s thesis, I see an opportunity to develop this initial idea into a structured and in-depth study. Ultimately, my aim is to identify key challenges and opportunities in the design of train platforms that could contribute to a more intuitive, inclusive and pleasant user experience. One that meets the diverse needs of passengers and enhances the overall perception of rail travel in Germany.
Main questions
The main research question of this project is: “How can the user experience at train platforms in Germany be improved through user-centered design?” Since this is a complex and multi-layered topic, it requires breaking down into smaller guiding questions, in order to build a strong foundation. The first sub-question concerns the scope and focus area of the project. Train stations are multifaceted environments, so I need to decide which specific aspects of the station experience to examine more closely. Should the focus be on way finding, comfort, accessibility, safety or emotional experience? I also must determine how many regions or stations can realistically be analyzed without losing depth and focus. The next major question centers on the users themselves and their pain points. What are the biggest challenges travelers face while using train platforms and what needs to change for them to have a more positive and stress-free experience? To answer this, I will need to identify and engage with different user groups like commuters, tourists, elderly passengers or people with disabilities. Each of whom may have very different expectations and problems that require distinct solutions. Once these foundational questions are clarified, the project can move toward developing potential design solutions. This involves not only generating ideas to address the identified issues but also exploring how to communicate these solutions effectively. This could happen through visualizations, prototypes or user scenarios that make the improvements tangible and easy to understand.
Problems and solutions
One major issue I have repeatedly noticed as a train passenger is the lack of sufficient signage and clear indications at stations. When traveling, I want to be as well-informed as possible so I can plan my journey accurately, avoid missing connections and move through the station without unnecessary stress. However, the information provided is often limited or unclear, making smooth and uninterrupted travel harder than it should be. For example, having clear indications of the train’s exact position before it arrives would be extremely helpful. This would allow passengers to wait at the correct spot rather than having to reposition themselves or even run once, the train arrives. Additionally, better communication about where specific sections of the train will be located, such as areas for wheelchairs, bicycles or heavy luggage, would make boarding much easier. Currently, these zones are usually marked only on the train itself, which prevents passengers from preparing in advance.
Clearer platform markings and communication would not only improve the boarding and exiting process but also make it faster and more efficient. As a result, this could contribute to better punctuality for German trains and reduce the overall stress and chaos often experienced on platforms.
Figure 1: own photographs.
This is just one problem I have personally encountered and would like to see addressed. However, further research and especially input from other passengers will be necessary to gain a broader and more inclusive understanding of the challenges faced by different user groups. For this reason, the issues and possible solutions will be re-evaluated later in the project as more data becomes available.
Relevance
The relevance of this topic lies in the essential role train stations play in ensuring that rail travel functions efficiently and reliably. Train stations and their platforms are the central points of the railway network. If they fail to operate properly, the entire system suffers. Malfunctions, poor design or inadequate maintenance can lead to delays, cancellations and frustration among passengers. These issues not only disrupt daily commuting and long-distance travel but also discourage people from choosing the train as a preferred mode of transportation. In comparison to cars or airplanes, traveling by train is significantly more environmentally friendly. Rail transport produces lower carbon emissions, consumes less energy and can transport large numbers of people efficiently (NSW Government, 2025). For these reasons, trains should be placed at the heart of sustainable mobility strategies for the future. However, this can only happen if the infrastructure that supports train travel, particularly stations and platforms, is reliable, comfortable and accessible to all users. Unfortunately, train travel today is still often associated with problems such as frequent delays, outdated facilities and a lack of convenience. Many travellers therefore continue to use cars or planes, even for short distances, because these options seem faster or more dependable. To change this perception, we must rethink how train stations are designed and managed. Improving the user experience at stations could have a significant impact on how people perceive train travel overall. A more efficient and enjoyable station environment could increase public trust and encourage more people to travel by train. In this way, enhancing train stations and platforms is not just about improving transport operations. It is about investing in a more sustainable, connected and environmentally responsible future of travel.
Expected challenges
While working on this important and complex topic, I expect to face several challenges, such as a lack of information, difficulties finding suitable participants for surveys, uncertainty about where to begin and the risk of feeling overwhelmed by the many possible directions the project could take. To handle these challenges, I plan to work according to a clear and structured concept to stay focused and avoid getting sidetracked.
Next steps
To achieve that, my research will start broadly, allowing me to gain a general understanding of the topic and identify the range of available sources. As the project progresses, I will gradually narrow my focus to filter out the most relevant findings and build a clear direction. During the first few weeks, I aim to conduct general research to grasp the topic more deeply. Once that foundation is set, I will identify gaps in knowledge and look for ways to fill them. A possible way to do that, that I can already define as a useful way for gathering unexpected and new information, could be conducting surveys or interviews in my surroundings or at train stations. With that information, I hope to then define specific pain points and problem that I can afterwards take as a base to develop practical and testable solutions.
Reference
NSW Government. (2025). Sydney Trains environment and sustainability. Von Transport for NSW: https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/environment-and-safety/sydney-trains-environment-and-sustainability/why-rail-travel-a abgerufen
