Public Transport Insight Management
Overview
Public Transport Insight Management (PTIM) systems use software tools to automate core business processes for public transport operators. PTIM is modelled on bus transport operations in various counties in the UK with the provision to adapt the workflows to the country of implementation. PTIM includes several applications that cover conducting surveys, ground-up route definition from a GIS network, definition of schedules, regular timetables along with coverage for exceptions, route fares at multiple service levels, tendering process, contract management with private operators, training for operators, SLA monitoring and interfaces to collaborating systems such as transport planners, roadside displays and fare collection systems. Covering 1.125 services, 3.735 routes and 46.100 trips annually, ARS and Surtronic have firmly embedded this solution among public transport operators.
Solution advantages
Efficient system operation
Automated system provides higher efficiency, requires less human input, and is more accurate than other methods of operation. The system features comprehensive operational reports at multiple granularities providing no-stones-unturned information on the operations for the authorities. Operators have access to various performance reports that help validate as well as optimize their operations.
Optimized core processes
System improvements help the public transport operators, whilst also improving the information stream towards the commuters. From tendering for contracts, contract definition, SLA tracking and closure, PTIMS is comprehensive in its features for managing private operators who implement the transport operations in specified regions.
Solution flexibility
The applications available with PTIMS support a ground-up implementation of public or private transport service from the point of feasibility surveys to MIS reports on operations. PTIMS offers specialized transport operations management for schools ensuring additional safety guards that apply to children and dissemination of critical information to parents and teachers. It provides application interfaces through which standard or custom travel plans along with concessions can be defined. Augmenting the feature, there are provisions to define traveling cards, printing and issuing of cards.
Modularity
The system provides options to integrate rail timetables to optimize the bus timetables for better multi-mode connectivity. It also has features by which train timetables can be created just as bus timetables following a very similar workflow. PTIMS has built-in GIS data for map presentation along with the provision for integrating additional photographic details to assist operators. Routes are defined on top of a road network with relevant background layers that ease the process.
Case study
PTIM in use in Hertfordshire, UK
The system was implemented as an integrated software package and GIS that manages all aspects of public transport data and services. The system stores and maintains data regarding the public transport buses and is a platform for adding or making changes to the public transport information. It is in use since 2004 as a single integrated database (Oracle). The ‘open’ database architecture allows clients and subsidiaries to add on their own systems. Centralization of data promotes increased efficiency and sharing. Information categories are divided into well-defined modules, which cater the needs of the various authorities pertaining to the transportations including preparation of bus tenders and providing passengers with travel information.
