Innovation around the table for Schweizerische Südostbahn
On behalf of Schweizerische Südostbahnen (SOB), Milani developed innovative solutions around the passenger train tables to improve the travel experience in 1st class and accompanied the project from concept to implementation in the pilot phase.
Enhancing the travel experience in 1st class
Whether in 1st or 2nd class, the Swiss Southeastern Railway (SOB) wants to offer all passengers a pleasant and comfortable journey. Many passengers appreciate the special comfort of 1st class with its extra space and quieter atmosphere. They make a disproportionately high contribution to transport revenue and travel an average of 30 percent longer distances than 2nd class passengers. SOB has therefore launched the "1st Class Project" with the aim of analyzing the needs of 1st class passengers and developing targeted measures to further improve the travel experience and comfort.
Innovative table concepts: prototyping from cardboard models to 1:1 mock-ups
Milani analyzed the needs of 1st class passengers: from business travelers, tourists leisure travelers. A key finding was that the number of business travelers has increased, passengers were spending more time on the train and their needs have shifted on certain routes.
As a result, Milani developed several multi-functional concept ideas to redefine the travel experience around the table and at the same time meet the different needs of all target groups. For example, there are larger table tops to satisfy the desire for better working space. At the same time, Milani developed various design and communication approaches that turn the tables into entertainment objects and enhance the travel experience with multimedia.
In close collaboration with SOB, Milani further developed selected solutions, transformed them into various prototypes and tested them: from cardboard models to physical 1:1 models. The focus was not only on function, but also on form. The look and feel of the new tables had to be based on the design language of the existing tables. Milani developed a table design that blends harmoniously into the overall appearance of the trains and supported SOB in the concrete implementation for the pilot project phase.
Pilot project with folding work tables
SOB is currently testing certain elements of tnew foldable work tables in two Traverso trains. The tables have a holder for a smartphone or tablet and are equipped with an inductive (wireless) charging option for the smartphone. At the same time, SOB is conducting a survey via a QR code link to ask passengers about their impressions of the tables and at the same time learn more about their travel purposes and satisfaction. This data, together with other evaluations, will provide SOB with a solid basis for making decisions on how to further develop the offers and services in 1st class.
