Bangkok's Kasetsart University (KU) has installed the country's first mobile phone lane specifically designed for pedestrians that can't bear to put down their smartphone. The initiative was proposed by students and has been installed as a 500-meter-long two-lane footpath with separate lanes for phone users and non-users.
The lane is sponsored by Toyota Thailand and was implemented on a trial basis for the month of November 2015. Students conceived of the plan as a means to avoiding other students in the habit of walking slowly because they are enthralled in their smartphones.
The initiative is sure to be successful during rush hour, when students have most complained about being late for class due to those walking slowly while using their phones.
The clever campaign is an ideal way for Toyota Thailand to insert themselves naturally into the student experience.
Mobile Phone Lane Footpaths
A Thailand University Has a Section of Sidewalk for Smartphone Users
Trend Themes
1. Mobile Phone Lane - Creating designated lanes for phone users can improve pedestrian safety and efficiency in crowded areas.
2. Smartphone Addiction - The increasing dependence on smartphones presents opportunities for innovative solutions that help users balance their smartphone usage with their surroundings.
3. Sponsored Initiatives - Collaborations between companies and educational institutions provide potential for creating impactful campaigns that benefit both parties.
Industry Implications
1. Urban Planning - Urban planners can explore the implementation of designated areas or lanes for phone users to enhance pedestrian flow in busy cities.
2. Mobile Technology - Developers can create apps or features that remind users to stay aware of their surroundings while using their smartphones.
3. Marketing and Advertising - Brands can find innovative ways to engage with their target audience by sponsoring initiatives that address common challenges faced by consumers.