Commuter Pattern Analysis

Commuting is a strange activity, almost robotic and mindless - yet a shared and necessary experience of the modern world. Though no one should have to endure it I usually think that analysis and definition will help the process in some wise.

The mob(ility): The mob, the masses, the commuters.

Stream: The flow of the mob along predetermined paths of travel, usually designated as the shortest possible route from point A to point B.

Fighting the Current: Moving in contrary directions from the mob.

Flit: Moving from one stream to another if it seems like it allows the opportunity to overtake and advance along the line. Results from mob members travelling at different speeds.

In-line: Being trapped in a set area of the stream and unable to flit.

Boulder: A particularly slow or obstructive member of the mob. Usually groks or carriers of the TripTrap.

TripTrap: A pull along suitcase. Pick it up!!

Dead Terminal: The point where you try your ticket at an automated terminal and it doesn't work. You then become a boulder.

Ghost Terminal: A perfectly fine and working terminal that one commuter ignores, resulting in a back log of mob who would rather cue behind a terminal they know will work - rather than try a dead terminal and risk becoming a boulder.

Grok: A grokel, a tourist or daydreaming gimp.

In the tube: Not referring to the mode of transport but referencing Donnie Darko and the projection of the future path. The path one commuter takes is so regular and dependable it is as if they are following a time tube. To be in the tube is to follow the same path to work at the same time each day. Deviating from the tube is likely to cause confusion, becoming aware of the tube is likely to result in a form of confusing deja-vu where one is uncertain whether one is travelling to work or simply remembering a previous journey.