Public transport software provider Optibus has introduced Operations, which it says is the ‘first real-time solution for public transportation depot operations’ and the newest product in Optibus’ suite of solutions for all public transport planning needs. Operations enables agencies and operators across the industry to detect and prevent service disruptions resulting from driver staffing and vehicle challenges, helping to ensure that services roll out smoothly for passengers and drivers alike.
Optibus said that whilst it takes a significant amount of time to plan a public transport network, even the most well-designed services can unravel in seconds as the result of the unexpected, such as a driver who doesn’t arrive for their shift or a late departure from the depot that disrupts on-time performance. Driver shortages in particular have caused major service delays and cancellations worldwide, the company says, with some cities seeing 10-20% of services on some lines cancelled due to driver shortages alone. The ability to smoothly and quickly handle disruptions at the depot is key to good services and good business, the firm says, since for every late or absent bus is a person who cannot arrive at work, school, or elsewhere, on time or at all.
Using cloud computing and open data, the developer says Operations improves driver and vehicle allocation by detecting potential depot disruptions in real time, dispatching automatic alerts to operators, and suggesting ways to resolve challenges. If a driver calls in sick, is late, or at risk of arriving late, Optibus says Operations can suggest the best replacement driver, based on compatibility, compliance, and cost. In line with the firm’s’ holistic vision for planning and operations, it says Operations seamlessly integrates with and syncs incoming data from other Optibus products and integrates with external operational data systems including those for HR, payroll and fleet management. By unifying driver and vehicle data, enabling real-time, flexible payroll capabilities, and supporting long-term planning, Optibus says Operations takes depot allocations to the next level, enabling users to save time and costs, eliminate last-minute chaos, and create a stellar experience for passengers and drivers.
“Our new Operations product is the digital command centre for tackling public transportation challenges as they unfold, with agility and speed,” said Amos Haggiag, Optibus CEO and co-founder. “The technology behind the Operations product empowers the public transportation industry
to deliver quality, reliable services that increase ridership, take pressure off drivers, and ensure compliance.”
