Irish public transport data intelligence company CitySwift is using AI to improve the networks of two UK bus companies.
Transdev Blazefield handles bus services across Manchester, Lancashire, North Yorkshire and West Yorkshire, and Trent Barton operates local and regional bus services in Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Staffordshire
CitySwift improves the performance of public transport networks using AI-powered analytics, simulations and optimisations. Through its performance optimisation software, Transdev Blazefield hopes to future-proof its bus network by using CitySwift’s intelligent data options. Transdev will be able to create a resilient, data-driven bus network that responds to passenger needs by optimising reliability and resources thanks to an intelligent data hub that provides access to high-quality network performance insights, optimal service recommendations and predictive analytics.
“For the first time, thanks to CitySwift’s platform, we have a single source of truth for our bus network data,” said Paul Turner, commercial director at Transdev Blazefield (www.transdevbus.co.uk). “Having access to reliable data unlocks our team’s ability to quickly make decisions, ultimately enabling us to deliver a better service to our passengers.”
Trent Barton aims to employ CitySwift’s technology to speed up network optimisation to provide a better user experience and gain precise insights that enable it to identify exactly what’s occurring within the network. The CitySwift platform collects, filters and enhances data from hundreds of sources to give authorities and operators a reliable single source of truth.
“Embracing data-driven decision making is reforming the way we plan our bus services, ensuring we’re meeting our customers top priority – punctuality,” said Tom Morgan, managing director at Trent Barton (www.trentbarton.co.uk). “From optimising routes and schedules to enhancing customer experience, having access to intelligent data insights unlocks more efficient, reliable and customer-centric bus services for all. CitySwift’s platform will also help us identify delays and hotspots on our network, which our local authority partners are keen to prioritise us through, giving bus customers a clear advantage over the car.”
Based in Galway, Ireland, CitySwift was founded by Alan Farrelly and Brian O’Rourke in 2016. It collaborates with public sector transport authorities and private bus operators to eliminate obstacles in accessing and interpreting transport data. The focus of these partnerships is on attaining accurate data across the network, which enables both organisations to implement a data-driven approach targeted at shifting passengers from private vehicles to more environmentally friendly public transport choices.
“We are delighted to begin working with both Transdev Blazefield and Trent Barton to help optimise their transport services,” said Farrelly. “Both of these organisations are committed to ensuring their customers are engaging with the most efficient public transport possible. As we continue to grow, providing our services across the UK, we are continuously investing by improving our cutting edge technology.”
CitySwift (www.cityswift.com) opened its first UK office this year in London and announced an additional partnership with Transport North East. Transdev and Trent Barton now join National Express, Transport for Wales and Metroline in using CitySwift’s technology to improve bus punctuality and increase passenger satisfaction. Additionally, in February this year CitySwift announced the close of its latest funding round of €7m led by Gresham House Venture, as the company scales for growth globally.
