UP: Steam

iOS and web application for Union Pacific rail fans. Fans can use this application to view photos and videos of the historic steam locomotives as well as real time GPS location and schedules of upcoming stops.

Challenge

As a part of Union Pacific's 150th anniversary celebration two special trains pulled by steam engines would make stops around the country. We needed a way to generate excitement and publish the ever changing schedule so people could visit the train when it stopped in their town.

Solution

The solution came in the form of a twitter feed, native mobile app and webpage. I was involved throughout the design phase offering advice on heuristics and best practices. I conducted usability testing on iPad and iPhone devices to determine whether the main functions of the site were easily understood and able to be completed by users. After the completion of the usability study I shared the findings with the business and development teams and we worked together to make the necessary changes to the application.

Result

Rail fans went crazy for these events and showed up in frenzied excitement to see the steam engines roll through their towns!

Tools & Methods Used

• Usability Testing

• Heuristic Principles

Artifacts

• https://www.up.com/heritage/steam/