Technological  advances happening before our eyes and changing our everyday life.  The public transportation industry is no exception. Public Transit agencies are continuously looking for ways to improve their riders experience. Just recently in Panama city, the "Bay Town Trolley" has launched a "virtual trip planner" that gives bus riders the opportunity to view a detailed description of their upcoming trip and what routes to take. Previously, riders were relying on route brochures and from talking to bus drivers or riders.

Unfortunately, brochures are not always readily available and other alternatives can be inconvenient. In order, for riders to use the virtual trip planner they must have a mobile device.Riders simply input their trip on their phone and learn what buses they have to get on. It gives them the option of just entering the name of a location without having to include a specific street address.  The description includes the nearest bus stop location, route transfer information and total estimated travel time. 

Bay Town Trolley worked with the Florida Department of Transportation to develop the trip planner. As well as made data about the system accessible to Google and Bing, like coordinates for all stops. 

Future enhancements include adding a GPS feature that would allow bus riders to see on their mobile phones exactly where the bus they are waiting for is located.

Technology will continue to bring many changes. Customers are now looking for real life information for all their services and products. CoachCrafters understands the importance the technology role plays in public transit. This is why we also offer our clients an online client center with updated information regarding their projects. Learn more about our client center at www.coachcrafters.com