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Reimagining Taxi Services for the Elderly in Shanghai

Date
July – September 2023

Project Type
Service & UI Design / Solo

Tools
Figma

Location
Shangahi 

The elderly population in Shanghai has struggled to adapt as modern technology has made familiar amenities less accessible. Widespread adoption of ride-hailing apps and overcrowding on public transit have greatly increased the difficulty of traveling beyond a one-kilometer radius of elderly homes. To address this challenge, I have developed a comprehensive system and service that take into account the needs and preferences of the elderly, effectively bridging the gap between taxi drivers and this demographic. This innovative solution allows seniors to effortlessly request a taxi with a simple click while waiting at a bus stop, eliminating the need for them to navigate new technologies or processes. I have also developed a UI mock-up for taxi drivers who are part of this system to take orders.

02 | Research 

There are 2.64 million people aged 70 and above live in Shanghai. As S hanghai modernizes, the elderly may struggle to adapt. Relying solely on traditional transportation can make their daily lives less convenient.

Taxis in Shanghai

The elderly want to travel long distances for social and exploration reasons, yet studies show only 20% of them are able to independently use ride-hailing apps. Instead, elderly people prefer traditional taxis. However, preference for ride-hailing apps by other demographics has led to decreased demand and income for traditional taxi drivers and fewer taxis on the roads for elderly people to use.

Public Transit in Shanghai

Elderly people mainly rely on public transit or walking alone, which can be unsafe or tiring. Without public transit, traveling beyond the first kilometer from home becomes difficult.

Conclusion 

To solve the “first kilometer travel” problem, the elderly need a more convenient, comfortable, and safe way to travel beyong one kilometer

03 | Interview

I interviewed seniors, middle-aged adults, and app developers to gain insights into elderly travel and technology habits.

Memory

The elderly often rely on younger family members for software guidance. They focus on memorizing steps instead of understanding software functionality.

Language

Users speaking informal Mandarin with local accents can lead to errors with voice recognition technology.

Decision Making

The elderly often rely on familiar transportation options such as taxis and buses and may be wary of new information and people.

Family

The elderly are open to new experiences, but sometimes their children prevent them from going out alone due to safety concerns.

Motor skills

The combination of declining motor skills and unfamiliarity with app interfaces creates challenges in using technology.

05 | Problem Statement

How might we create a system that allows seniors to call a car with just one click, without having to learn anything new?

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Existing roadside ride-hailing system in Shanghai needs users to scan a QR code with an app, which requires using a smartphone.

08 | Solution  

A companion app for taxi drivers streamlines ride orders and enhances the system's overall comprehensiveness.

Drivers can see distance and estimated arrival times for all available orders.

After finishing rides, drivers enter order prices and take photos as proof (future versions may connect to the taxi meter directly).

Daily income statistics help drivers track their earnings. This system offers lower commissions compared to taxi and ride-hailing companies.

10 | Service Blueprint