Product Roundup: Transportation software solutions
A look at some of the latest platforms that include real-time vehicle location, schedule optimization, and cloud-based planning.

Clever Devices

Ecolane
Ecolane’s Mobile Data Tablet seamlessly connects vehicles with Ecolane’s DRT platform and offers real-time data communication; optimizes schedules and increases productivity; vehicle location availability in real time; driver behavior monitoring, including vehicle speeds; fast and efficient dispatching; real-time manifest updates; and increased safety and customer service. The large, Android-powered touch-screen MDT mounts quickly and securely via a RAM® mount. There’s no complex wiring to install, so tablet transfers between vehicles are painless. www.ecolane.com

Optibus
The Optibus Route Planning module extends the power of Optibus’ software-as-a-service and cloud-based planning and scheduling platform, allowing for quick and simple route creation and modification. Some of the capabilities of the Route Planning module include the ability to: Plan routes from scratch, including adding routes or adjusting them, by using the algorithmic power of Optibus’ platform. View and modify routes via a modern and interactive user interface that uses the most up-to-date maps and satellite views; by drilling down into street-level pictures, users can easily see what the route and stops look like in real life from the driver’s point of view. Move from the Route Planning module to the subsequent timetable, scheduling, and rosters modules, creating a seamless workflow and ending the industry’s dependence on disparate tools. Validate routes simply and effectively; the module points out errors to prevent extra work. www.optibus.com

Clever Devices
Clever Devices’ MTRAM Suite by M.A.I.O.R is an integrated scheduling solution that simplifies and optimizes transportation planning, scheduling, rostering, daily management and data analysis to ensure creation of reliable, efficient and cost-effective services. The MTRAM Scheduling algorithm can reduce the total number of blocks and runs required to perform your service; allows you to simulate scenarios by manipulating your inputs in a virtual “sandbox” to uncover possible added efficiencies and even more significant cost savings. Other features include graphical or tabular timetable views; ability to create optimized runs; and the system considers adherence to labor agreements and agency policies. www.cleverdevices.com

Trapeze
FX with Blockbuster, Trapeze's comprehensive routing and scheduling system for fixed-route transit, increases efficiency by automating time-consuming tasks such as reducing data re-entry and data management with a single, centralized database. Offers improved service by being able to quickly adjust timetables between sign ups in response to ridership patterns; calculate run times more accurately for better timetables; and easily integrate tools that enable ridership analysis, schedule adherance and demand forecasting. Allows you to maximize return on investment by recovering the cost of your scheduling system in less than four years. www.trapezegroup.com

GIRO
HASTUS-Rail, an integrated software solution for passenger rail scheduling and operations, which helps operators plan and manage timetables, rolling stock, and on-board and other related staff assignments. The HASTUS scheduling tools have been demonstrated to generate savings of 2% to 5% over manual methods and competing systems. Ensures that yard and station capacity restrictions are respected; manage conflicts to generate robust timetables; defines temporary circulation restrictions on track segments; and manages the impact of maintenance on track availability. www.giro.ca/en
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