Research Techniques - Technology in The Wild

Technology in The Wild

This is a Short 5 minute video compressed in to one minute for analysis of a 2 part pedestrian crossing at the top of Harcourt Street. 

What I am observing the use of technology in the wild which in this case is the pedestrian light system.

Observations

1.  Crossing the road with a red pedestrian light
2. Foot traffic to the small island is quiet large for the footprint of the island itself
3. No pedestrian crossing or signals to cross the luas tracks
4. Pedestrians move around the luas and on to the road to move across tracks
5. Garda car backs on to a busy junction
6. Again more people cross with a red pedestrian light
7. Cyclist breaks a read light
8. lady runs across the road as the pedestrian lights go red
9. Pedestrians traverse immobile traffic while inner lane moves freely
10. Pedestrian dash as luas comes up Harcourt street
11. Father leads son across the road at a red light
12. Awkward look from 2 solicitors 

Reflection

It is so interesting to see how intended users actually use, circumvent or do not use the technology as it has been intended for them. This also shows the value in follow up investigations to see is the intended outcome from the installation of technology in the wild meetings its needs and expectations on both sides, from an implementation perspective and a users perspective. 

There is a plethora of development opportunity here and scope for additional observation. While the technology is serving its purpose it is not being utilised to its full potential. 

What you dont see in the video is the context,  the interaction and involvement of the luas stop to the right of the screen and bus stop to the left of the screen. Both play a big part in what we are witnessing, with pedestrians and professionals rushing for their mode of transport, also the timing of 8.30am when people are now rushing to beat the rush, traffic and make it to work for 9am.

I will present my finding in University this evening and I may update this post or add another one. I am looking forward to seeing my classmates observations over the week and the analysis done.