technology: we all want it, but at what cost
TRANSCRIPT
Rob Thompson Manager of Grants, Capital Projects and Procurements
Technology: We All Want It, But At What Cost
Small Operator Perspective
• 12 Paratransit Vehicles • 44 Fixed Route Buses • Approx 1.3M Passengers Annually • Contracted Operations & Maintenance • Small Agency staff – 7
WestCAT
• Lessen burden on staff • Can Solve issue – help resolve complaints • Enhance Reporting Capabilities
• NTD • Monthly Reports
• Customer Service
What can Technology do for us?
• Automated Paratransit Scheduling • Time saver?
• Mobile Data Terminals (MDT’s) • Promise, but implementation hurdles
• Voice Annunciation System • ADA compliance • Stand alone system • Triggered by driver
• First generation AVL system • Neighborhood complaints (speeding) • Record of data – not Real Time
WestCAT – early Technology
• Electronic Fareboxes • Electronic tickets
• Scheduling Software • To relieve burden on staff • Initial installation
Technology Advances – 2008-10
Schedules - Excel
• Real Time Departure System
• Upgraded AVL & Voice Annunciation system
• Part of Regional 511 Real Time System
• Adds more layers to the Scheduling process
Next Generation Technology
AVL / Real Time Software
• Holidays • School • BART strikes / Bridge Closures
Updating
• Ties Real Time AVL system to Headsigns, Voice Annunciator and Farebox
• Server Issues • Communication Issues • Updates • Headsigns Incompatibility across fleet
Single Point log in – Benefits vs. Constraints
• Reporting Software • Using technology to tie data together
Last piece of the technology puzzle?
• Saving Staff time • Do you have the right staff
• Technology can complicate things – Updates to software
• Who does updates – You or the Vendor? • You may never fulfill your expectations • Technology can change overnight
Will Technology help?