Jolita Mo

TRACES is an experimental mapping system that captures and visualises crowd movement, creating temporary guidance throughout the city. 

Originally inspired by the need of communication in post-disaster scenarios where electricity and networks are cut off, TRACES is a decentralised, off-grid system that provides ground lighting. 

The TRACES system is powered by solar energy, allowing it to work without central power supply. Each module functions independently and can be easily retro-fitted into any ground surface in a flexible arrangement. TRACES records footfall and visualises the most-taken route through the relative brightness of paths - harnessing the power of collective crowd decisions through an indirect but situation-relevant form of communication. TRACES can be used as a tool for crowd management and offers subtle guidance for navigating throughout spaces. 

Ultimately, TRACES paves the way for a new type of communication based on crowd behaviour and rethinks how unintentional acts can be applied in a useful way.