Rabet Technologies - رابط تكنولوجيز

How do you choose the right software for your ADA paratransit service?

Hunting down paratransit software isn't a walk in the park. Transit technology isn't universally applicable, especially when catering to individuals with disabilities. Yet, in today's paratransit software market, you're faced with distinguishing among platforms all claiming to achieve the same objectives: cost reduction, enhanced efficiency, and better rider experiences.

How can you determine which one suits you best?

The solution lies in posing several questions to yourself and your team at the outset of your journey, making your job smoother in the long haul. Using the guidelines below, you'll be equipped to leverage your existing

knowledge — your specific service requirements and goals — and transform them into inquiries you should pose to your software provider.

1. Demonstrated track record in optimization utilization:

Select a technology that enables you to publish optimal shift schedules, optimize runs the day before, and automatically adjust during execution to balance fleet productivity and service quality.

2. Offers Mobile Applications

Driver application providing:

• Real-time routing

• Pickup/drop-off information

• offline capabilities

All of which will help drivers and users to maintain service quality in areas with limited cellular connectivity.

While traditional booking methods typically involve phone calls, incorporating a smartphone application can provide an additional booking option for riders and caregivers. However, to accommodate a broader spectrum of communication preferences among riders, consider software providers that off er multiple channels such as automated calls, interactive voice response (IVR), SMS, and app-based push notifications. These channels should cover both booking and trip reminders, ensuring riders feel supported and informed throughout their journey.

Paratransit riders often require recurring bookings for regular appointments, varying vehicle accessibility needs, and may travel with personal care attendants (PCAs). To address these diverse preferences, seek software that offers detailed rider profiles, including favorite locations, companion preferences, and recurring ride schedules. Additionally, modern paratransit services must accommodate various payment methods beyond cash, such as cards and vouchers. Once implemented, utilize in-app service ratings and comments to gauge customer satisfaction and identify areas for improvement efficiently.

Recognizing that paratransit riders have varying requirements, it's crucial to offer support tailored to their individual needs for a successful operation.

Communication channel modes:

• Interactive Voice Response (IVR)

• Automated Calls

• SMS

• App-based notifications

3. What is your strategy for assessing success?

Set your plan to track the following:

A) Operational Metrics

B) Rider Feedback

C) Cost Efficiency

A) Operational Metrics:

Consider all quantitative metrics relevant to your operations: Utilization rates, on-time performance, trip and call volumes, among others. Accurate data collection is vital for ensuring ADA compliance and maximizing effi ciency. Look for a platform that continuously gathers data and off ers streamlined dashboards for easy analysis by managers and stakeholders. A robust reporting suite should enable real-time tracking of operational performance metrics on a daily and hourly basis.

B) Rider Feedback:

Not all insights can be gleaned from data alone. Incorporating rider input and qualitative feedback provides valuable insights into what works and what doesn't. Partner with experts in community engagement practices to gather meaningful feedback and improve service quality over time. Your technology partner should assist in defining feedback channels, aggregating responses, and analyzing them to inform decision-making.

C) Cost Efficiency:

If your aim is to reduce costs through software efficiency, you should see savings in various areas. Look for algorithms that automatically optimize ride plans in response to new trip requests, enhancing efficiency while maintaining service quality. Encouraging smartphone app usage for booking can alleviate call center workload significantly. Additionally, automation frees up planning and dispatching staff , allowing them to focus on value-added tasks.

How can we help you:

At Rabet Technologies, we understand the complexities involved in selecting the right steps for your paratransit services. With our expertise in the fi eld, we can assist you in navigating through the process and choosing the best software solution tailored to your specific needs. From evaluating operational metrics to gathering rider feedback and maximizing cost efficiency, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn how we can help optimize your paratransit services