IRCTC App Design
An App for Indian Railway
Problem Statement:
Users of the IRCTC app face significant challenges in quickly finding trains from their destinations or nearby stations. This difficulty often leads to confusion and inconvenience during trip planning. Furthermore, many users need a more integrated solution for booking cabs or autos when they arrive at their destination, requiring them to rely on third-party apps.
Research & User Insights:
To understand user behaviours and pain points, I conducted a series of user interviews, surveys, and analysed app reviews.
Key Insights:
Difficulty in Train Search: Users reported that finding trains from their exact destination or nearby stations was cumbersome. They wanted better filtering and search options based on real-time location and alternative stations.
Last-Mile Connectivity: Many users were concerned about their transportation options once they arrived at their destination. They expressed a need for an integrated solution for booking cabs or autos that syncs with train arrival times.
Complex UI: The current UI was cluttered and overwhelming, especially for first-time users and elderly people.
Goals:
Simplify the process of finding trains from a user’s destination and nearby stations.
Enable users to seamlessly book a cab or auto based on the train's estimated arrival time.
Improve the overall user interface (UI) for a more intuitive experience.
Proposed Solutions:
Enhanced Train Search Functionality:
Smart Search Bar: Users can input either their exact location or a broader area (e.g., city name) to get train options from nearby stations within a 10-15 km radius.
Auto-Detect Nearby Stations: The app uses GPS to automatically show nearby stations and available trains in real-time, along with travel times and platform details.
Customizable Filters: Users can filter by factors such as fastest train, cheapest fare, number of stops, and ticket availability.
Integrated Last-Mile Transport Booking:
Cab/Auto Booking: Once the user selects their train, they can pre-book a cab or auto to match the train’s arrival time.
Smart Syncing: The system syncs with the train’s ETA and adjusts the booking time dynamically in case of delays or reschedules.
Fare Comparison: Users can compare fares across multiple providers (Ola, Uber, or local auto services) and choose the most convenient option.
Simplified User Interface:
Streamlined Dashboard: A clean and simple home screen with quick access to train search, cab booking, ticket status, and recent journeys.
Easy Navigation: A tabbed layout with clear icons and labels for major actions like "Search Trains," "Book Transport," and "Check Status."
The redesign of the IRCTC app successfully addressed key user pain points by simplifying the train search process and integrating last-mile connectivity. Future improvements could include expanding transportation options to include bike-sharing and integrating a fare calculator for added convenience.
This case study highlights the importance of user-centered design in creating solutions that address real-world challenges, enhancing the overall travel experience for app users.