Passengers are at the heart of public transport, which means it’s important for operators to ensure their transport networks are designed to suit the rider’s needs.
As such, real-time passenger information has become one of the most effective elements of intelligent transportation systems (ITS) for transit agencies to include in their operations.
But how does this work? Where can it be found? And how does it help?
How does real-time passenger information work?
Real-time passenger information (RTPI) mainly involves the display of accurate information on the arrival times of vehicles, as well as other relevant information, depending on the display.
This includes each vehicle set to arrive at the stop, the specific routes they’re taking, and how long until they arrive.
The information will also make riders aware of any delays or disruptions, as this will be adjusted in real time according to the data collected from the ITS.
The intelligent systems will be able to monitor things such as vehicle positional information, congestion, delays, vehicle speed, and much more, which all factor into the predicted arrival times.
Where can riders find real-time passenger information?
Riders can view RTPI on advanced solar-powered displays. These can be set up on the street, on-premise, on the platform, and on the vehicles.
This way, passengers will always have clear access to real-time updates on their journeys.
How can real-time passenger information improve transport operations?
RTPI can significantly enhance transit agencies and provide a more enjoyable rider experience. This leads to:
* More effective journey planning
Using RTPI can allow riders to plan their journeys more effectively as they’ll constantly have the most accurate information on the transportation network.
With preset schedules, certain things like delays or road closures can massively alter the arrival times of vehicles, and passengers will be unaware, if sticking to the predetermined schedule.
This can lead to inaccurate ideas about how long their journey will take and confusion if the vehicles don’t show up on time.
With RTPI, they’ll always know of any changes to the arrival times and can re-adjust their journeys accordingly.
* Improved awareness of journeys
RTPI also provides a way for transit agencies to keep their riders in the loop with any essential information on the services, routes, or transit agency.
This includes any important information on changes to routes, road closures, delays, and more journey-related changes.
For instance, this could mean informing riders of future closures for special events, or even reminding them of safety procedures or good practices when using public transport.
* Increased rider satisfaction and loyalty
Another way RTPI can improve transport operations is that it can increase rider satisfaction and loyalty.
There will likely be fewer complaints from passengers if they aren’t left waiting unknowingly for a vehicle to arrive. Being well-informed will provide them with a more enjoyable experience with that specific service.
As a result, they’ll be more inclined to ride with this network again, or even recommend it to other fellow passengers – therefore, increasing revenue.
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By incorporating real-time passenger information into transportation networks, transit agencies can begin improving their riders’ experience, and thus, their public transport operations as a whole.
Why not consider incorporating ITS like this?
