From idea to concrete solution – in record time
QRTECH leads the way with a smart PoC solution for Västtrafik.

From idea to concrete solution – in record time
QRTECH leads the way with a smart PoC solution for Västtrafik.

How do you create location and real-time information for trains, ferries, and replacement transport services when much of the infrastructure was never designed to support it in the first place? That was the challenge Västtrafik brought to QRTECH. In just a few weeks, we delivered a working PoC that connects information, systems, and customer channels.

Västtrafik needed a cost-effective solution to provide passengers with better real-time information – whether they were travelling by train, ferry, or temporary replacement buses. The goal was both to determine whether a ticket was valid and to show where the vehicle was located, together with its forecasted arrival, in Västtrafik’s digital channels.

One of the challenges was that vehicles equipped with built-in location data had no connection to the specific service they were actually operating. Without this link, it was impossible to provide accurate arrival information or calculate the correct ticket price based on zone.

When it came to replacement services, there was no onboard location data at all, since these services are often operated by hired vehicles without built-in technology. In other words, it was a large and complex problem with no obvious solution.

Three vehicle types – one generic solution

QRTECH quickly assembled a vertical team with all the necessary expertise – from UX to cloud integration – and tackled the challenge in three parallel tracks: train, ferry, and replacement transport.

In a short period of time, we developed three separate PoCs that were then brought together. The result is an independent, cross-functional web app in which drivers, onboard staff, and operational traffic management can connect vehicles to the correct service. The app then sends location data and service information to all relevant systems within Västtrafik – from ticket machines to information displays.

“The solution is extremely cost-effective compared with building similar functionality into existing hardware,”
says Jari Tammisto, who was responsible for the project at Västtrafik.

Fast delivery, strong results

By combining our deep technical breadth with an agile way of working, we were able to develop a fully functioning solution in a very short time – with high quality and full integration. It is a clear example of what we mean by “connecting competencies vertically” by putting the right function in the right place – and why that matters for both customers and passengers.

Improved experience – from day one

The new solution creates value on several levels:
Passengers get accurate real-time information and the correct ticket price regardless of mode of transport, including when travelling on replacement vehicles. Drivers get better support in their daily work. Operational traffic management gains control over replacement services that lack onboard systems. Västtrafik gets access to more data for follow-up and continuous improvement.

“The response from the organisation has been very positive,” says Jari. “This is a solution that makes a real difference.”

The concept paves the way for a future vehicle strategy

This prototype work makes the business value tangible and creates a clear roadmap for how to develop and work cross-functionally in a simple and efficient way with central capabilities that are normally built into various complex onboard systems. In short, it is a simplified, modern, centralised, and generic solution – independent of vehicle type.

Västtrafik is responsible for public transport in the Västra Götaland region, Sweden. Every day, over 444,000 customers choose to travel with our buses, trains, trams and boats. By developing and offering sustainable trips and smart services, we want to be the obvious choice when you travel. In this way, Västtrafik contributes to provide a foundation for sustainable growth in Västra Götaland. An attractive and competitive region.

Vasttrafik.se