Station portfolio
NS Stations
Station Development Plan
Station portfolio
Interactive PDF > eBook > Web-based
about this project
From 2014 to 2020, I worked annually on the Station Development Plan (OPS), which became known as the Station Portfolio in 2018. It was an intensive and inspiring project that combined data, technology, design, and teamwork. The publication was used internally by NS Stations to provide insight into the performance and opportunities of all stations, and formed the basis for analysis, policy, and strategy.
From PDF to web publishing
- 2014: Interactive PDF (navigation only)
- This was followed by interactive maps and extensive benchmark modules
- 2017: switch to ePub – NS Stations worked extensively with iPads at the time
- From 2018: secure online publication for internal use
Content & data
Each year, the 50 largest stations were covered. In 2015, 2017, and from 2018 onward, the 357 smaller stations were also covered. The PDF for the smaller stations in 2015? A whopping 1,152 pages. Everything about passenger numbers, station experience, retail, and chain amenities like bicycle parking – clearly organized by station and theme.
Slimme workflows
All data was imported from Excel via XML into Illustrator and InDesign. The benchmark modules included matrix and monitor graphs for visually comparing station performance. I did draw all the station maps by hand, but even there, all the information (such as passenger numbers, footfall, experience, amenities, and revenue) was linked to the data source. From 2017 onwards, everything was converted from InDesign to HTML using a plug-in. So, much of the process was automated – except for the actual drawing.
Together with a strong team
We did this together with Architect Ruud Groot and the Asset Development team of NS Stations – a close-knit team with whom we worked every year with great pleasure and focus.
