CAD/AVL: three main functions

The CAD/AVL or Computer-Aided Dispatch / Automatic Vehicle Location is a comprehensive, intelligent tool, useful to passengers, drivers and operators alike.

It has three main day-to-day functions:

• Providing real-time passenger information
• To facilitate driving and the driver's job  
• Support operators in supervising operations

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Function n°1: Communicate real-time passenger information

In the current landscape, real-time passenger information has emerged as a critical challenge for transport operators as it serves as a key factor in attracting and retaining new passengers. In today's interconnected world, travelers heavily rely on their smartphones and expect instant access to accurate and timely information regarding their journeys.

The ability to provide reliable and up-to-date information about schedules, delays, disruptions, and connections is paramount for travelers. Transport operators who can deliver this information in real time gain a significant competitive advantage. By offering a seamless and hassle-free experience, they can entice new travelers and cultivate customer loyalty by delivering a high level of service that meets their expectations.

Real-time information delivered directly to smartphones

Real-time passenger information is seamlessly transmitted through the passenger information system, which is an essential component of the CAD/AVL system.

The on-board application installed in buses or coaches continuously collects and transmits various data, including geolocation, congestion levels, and delays, to the central system. This real-time information is then distributed to passengers through their preferred mobile devices. Additionally, screens installed at stops or inside the vehicle can also display the relevant information.

Passengers are empowered with the ability to track the real-time location of their bus and access accurate waiting times directly on their mobile devices. Advanced solutions like Pysae even offer push notifications to notify passengers in case of any traffic disruptions, ensuring they stay informed throughout their journey.

With CAD/AVL, travellers can :

• Plan their journeys with confidence
• Know traffic conditions in real time
• Receive alerts in the event of disruptions or itinerary changes
• Adapt their journey in the event of delays or cancellations
  

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Function n°2: Facilitating driving and the driver's job

Transport operators face a major challenge in attracting and retaining drivers due to a severe personnel shortage. Digital solutions like CAD/AVL can help address this issue by creating an appealing working environment and attracting new drivers.

A driving assistance tool for drivers

Thanks to a geolocation system, CAD/AVL provides drivers with real-time information about their position on the line and their adherence to the timetable. Advanced solutions like Pysae even offer GPS guidance tailored to their specific service. This aids in quick onboarding and helps drivers navigate their routes, especially for new drivers. Furthermore, the in-vehicle application facilitates constant communication between drivers and operations managers, eliminating the feeling of isolation in the field.

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Function 3: Supporting operators in supervising their operations

The operations manager's objective is to guarantee a high level of service for passengers, while respecting the contractual commitments established with the local authority (such as ridership, punctuality, services offered, etc.).

To achieve this objective, it must ensure that its operations and the lines it runs are organized efficiently. This means optimizing routes, schedules and available resources to maximize the efficiency of the transport network.

It is therefore crucial for the operations manager to equip himself with a CAD/AVL solution. This system enables him or her to have an on-the-ground vision and make informed decisions based on concrete data.

Reliable data and data capture for improved operations supervision

Using the information transmitted by the on-board application and the geolocation tool, operators can track the position of their vehicles in real time, and know what's happening on all their lines and vehicles. In the event of an anomaly or incident, they are automatically alerted and can contact drivers to resolve the problem.

With a CAD/AVL, the operator is also able to handle requests for information and customer complaints. The tool tells him where the buses are at any given time, enabling him to alert passengers in the event of a problem.

As Anne Raynal, Director of Operations at COOP Voyageurs 30 and a Pysae customer, explains: "the tool enables us to analyze the punctuality of our lines and improve stop times, better inform our customers about everyday hazards and respond more easily to passenger complaints".

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<p class="paragraph-73">Pysae, a leading provider of SaaS solutions for managing operations in the public transport sector, offers continuous support to its customers. We provide them with dependable and precise data on their operations, enhanced GPS navigation for bus drivers, and real-time information to enhance passenger experience.</p>
<a href="https://web.pysae.com/en/schedule-a-demo?utm_source=Website&utm_medium=Blog" class="button_success_p_plain w-button" style="margin-top: 15px">Book a demo</a>
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