[Field-Homework 3] Efficient City

https://youtu.be/6nsqNpJurEY

I. Introduction

This video explores the color code system used by Hong Kong MTR, which is not only a decoration but additionally a means of efficiency. The video’s central theme is to discover the distinctive color usage of different MTR lines. It also discusses the reasons behind using a color code system and how colors facilitate passengers’ navigation.

II. Components

The video includes original footage, photographic stills, and on-screen texts that narrate the critical information, with background music, Aruarian Dance by Nujabes (slowed down version), that sets a calming and reflective mood for the video.

III. Research Method

The research for this video was conducted using secondary sources, such as information about the color scheme and color codes of different MTR stations and the reasons behind using a color scheme. I used multiple sources, such as government reports, news articles, and video reports. The research aimed to explore the significance of the MTR color code system that sheds light on how small design elements can significantly impact urban transportation and people’s daily lives.

My research findings revealed that it is a well-thought-out and meticulously planned strategy. Each line has a distinctive color, and each station has a corresponding color code used throughout the station’s interior and exterior. This uniformity helps commuters identify stations and navigate the system quickly and efficiently, even if unfamiliar with the local language. Additionally, the color codes are also used for advertising and marketing purposes. For instance, MTR Corporation collaborates with businesses to decorate the stations with banners and posters that match the station’s color codes, creating a cohesive and immersive advertising experience.

IV. Video Production

To produce the video, I began by creating a storyboard that outlined the shots I wanted to capture and the message I wanted to convey. For example, I roughly drew the scenes I aimed to capture while filming, alongside notes describing the lasting time, animation, etc. I found this storyboard quite helpful as it serves as a guideline for my filming and video-making process.

Figure 1. Storyboard

I then scouted various MTR stations along different lines, including but not limited to Island Line, East Rail Line, and Tuen Ma Line, looking for distinctive color schemes and architectural features that would help illustrate the significance of the color code system. I captured original video footage and photographic stills of the stations’ interiors during filming, focusing on iconic station names and their corresponding color codes. I also made sure to film the different lines during peak hours to showcase how the color code system helps commuters navigate the stations quickly and efficiently.

Figure 2. Footages and stills

After filming, I used a video-making app to edit the footage, adding on-screen text to help explain the significance of the color code system. Finally, I selected Aruarian Dance by Nujabes as the background music for its calming and reflective mood, complementing the video’s overall theme.

V. Limitations

One limitation of this video essay is that it only explores the MTR color code system in Hong Kong. It would be interesting to compare this system with other cities and analyze their similarities and differences. Additionally, the video only focused on a few stations and lines due to time constraints. A more comprehensive analysis of the entire MTR system could provide more insights into the color code system’s impact on the city’s transportation network and urban life.

VI. Future Research

Future research could explore the role of other design elements in Hong Kong’s transportation system, such as signage, lighting, and wayfinding systems. It would also be interesting to investigate the impact of the MTR color code system on commuters with disabilities and how it could be improved to serve their needs better.

References:

1. Danthine, Matthieu. “The Colours of Hong Kong’s MTR.” YouTube, uploaded by Matthieu Danthine, 22 Sept. 2015, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ynr9q4_ONM.
2. “Hong Kong MTR – The Comprehensive Guide.” Hong Kong Traveller, https://www.hong-kong-traveller.com/hong-kong-mtr.html#:~:text=The%20lines%20are%20color%20coded,underground%20systems%20in%20the%20world.
3. “MTR Colour Coding.” Invisible Designs, Medium, 2 Sept. 2017, https://medium.com/invisibledesigns/mtr-colour-coding-d6ca5c5f018e.
4. “MTR’s Colourful Stations.” Cathay Pacific, 12 Apr. 2018, https://www.cathaypacific.com/cx/en_HK/inspiration/hong-kong/mtrs-colourful-stations.html.
5. MTR Corporation. Business Overview 2015. MTR Corporation, 2015, https://www.mtr.com.hk/archive/corporate/en/publications/images/business_overview_e.pdf.
6. “MTR System Map.” MTR Corporation, https://www.mtr.com.hk/en/customer/services/routemap_index.html.
7. Siu, Phila. “Why Every Hong Kong MTR Station Is a Different Colour – the Reason May Surprise You.” South China Morning Post, 3 Jan. 2017, https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/travel-leisure/article/2051751/why-every-hong-kong-mtr-station-different-colour-reason-may.
8. “The Different Colours of Hong Kong MTR Stations.” Smith & Sinclair, 25 Sept. 2018, https://hk.smithandsinclair.com/blogs/news/the-different-colours-of-hong-kong-mtr-stations.
9. “The Story Behind Hong Kong’s Colourful MTR Stations.” South China Morning Post, 9 Sept. 2021, https://www.scmp.com/video/hong-kong/3194342/story-behind-hong-kongs-colourful-mtr-stations.
10. Wong, Rhymin. “MTR Colours.” Librarhyme, 28 Apr. 2015, https://librarhyme.blogspot.com/2015/04/mtr-colours.html.

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