Do you want to chat on the train but don't want to feel awkward starting a conversation? A QUT researcher has developed an app for that - Train Yarn.
Train Yarn is a free mobile phone application that allows commuters on the Brisbane rail network to connect online in real time.
Tiago Camacho, from QUT's Urban Informatics Research Lab, is launching a trial and evaluation of the app on starting Wednesday July 2 and is inviting Brisbane train commuters to download the app and join the conversation.
"We know that riding the train is not the most exciting thing to do and can be boring. This app takes advantage of the diversity of fellow commuters in order to spice up the journey," he said.
"Many people use social media on their smart phones mainly to escape the isolating environment inside the train, but our idea is that maybe we can use technology to connect people who are on the same train."
Mr Camacho said just because passengers usually politely ignore one another on the train for reasons of social etiquette, did not mean they would not enjoy socialising if given an appropriate opportunity.
"Research has shown that while most people think they would rather sit in solitary than talk with a stranger, when tested, people who conversed with someone had a more positive experience than those who kept to themselves," he said.
"My research is inspired by the popular Chat Roulette website that establishes serendipitous links between people. I want to test the waters and find out whether technology can help to create a more connected commuter community."
But for the app to work effectively people need to join the conversation.
"We want people to test the app for the next few weeks during the peak hour rush to and from work and then tell us what they think," he said.
He said the app offered users two options, one to connect one-on-one with other commuters and the other to join a group chat.
"For whatever the reason, whether it is public transport etiquette, shyness or disinterest, most people don't chat with random strangers on the train. This research will investigate whether people who reconsider a commuter chat would actually enjoy it."
The app works by using a technique known as geofencing which restricts the use of the application to a certain area - in this case the Brisbane train network.
To evaluate the trial effectively, Mr Camacho asks volunteers to use the app during the peak hour weekday rush (6am-8am and 4pm-6pm). Participants taking part on the research will be entering a draw to win 1 of 3 $150 vouchers.
If you'd like to participate in the trial, or seek more information, visit http://pt-ux.com
RELATED STORIES
Australians' giving rises $30 million but number of givers falls
Elephants pave way for new intel on Australian shoppers
WOW factor: online games addiction a cause of poor mental health?
Media contact:
Sandra Hutchinson, QUT Media (Tue, Wed, Fri), 07 3138 9449 or media@qut.edu.au
After hours, Rose Trapnell, 0407 585 901
