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One of the main issues many urban areas face is the increasing growth in vehicle ownership, greatly impacting traffic levels. The challenge of sustainability, in this respect, is focused on shifting the demand for mobility from personal cars to mass transportation, in which case buses and other forms of public transport form key elements of a more sustainable and efficient public transit system. Real-time passenger information systems and integrated LED signs, as well as passenger counting systems are essential in order to get from point A to point B. Studies consistently show that these transit information systems play major roles in improving the user experience, in addition to providing critical data to the transit agency, especially in busy cities where people rely heavily on buses and other forms of mass transit.

One of the main things public transit providers should realize about passenger information systems, is that there is distinctive need for visual, as well as audible, information to be transmitted to the ridership through integrated LED signs, and passenger information systems, especially now that people expect real-time information on demand. The onslaught of digital technology and mobile devices has resulted in a growing demand for instantaneous information delivery. Passenger counting on public transit has a significant impact on the management of services agencies need to understand user growth. Transfer station signs and bus signs assist in the coordination, as well as the many mobile apps available to riders. The value that passenger information systems offer when it comes to trip planning cannot be discounted, which is why transit agencies should seriously consider investing in these solutions as a compliment application to integrated LED signs in order to better manage their fleet and improve their services.

There are many benefits to implementing a powerful passenger information system. Most important, passenger information systems are extremely versatile tools that can be used to deliver information through a wide variety of devices and platforms. Apart from intelligent transportation or transit system, integrated LED signs and transit stop announcement boards, head signs, annunciators, and other on-board devices, these systems can also feed information to telephone IVR services, SMS text services, web enabled devices, and transfer stations signs.

This control over information enables agencies to increase ridership. This is also true for riders challenged with disabilities, since knowing transit schedules and having stops automatically announced make an important deciding factor as they choose between transit options. Intelligent passenger information systems rely on accurate data gathered through different sources, like mobile data terminals and automated vehicle location updates, to ensure that real-time information is passed on to passengers.

Transign has been providing the transit industry with high-quality, long-lasting transit signage for almost 6 decades, and now bring about innovation in transportation signage with our LED Destinator EnCompass replace with Series. Harnessing the power of technology, our LED Destinator EnCompass™ uses hands-free control options which change all interior and exterior signage according to the change to geolocation of the bus. The driver is then able to comfortably attend to roads, stops and onboard passengers without the distraction of having to change messages periodically. Travel is thus safer.

Technology is the harbinger of change, and we believe in using it to revolutionize the way the transit industry operates. Travelers and Transit companies stand to gain from our advancements through automation and focus on passenger, operator and vehicle safety.

Get the LED Destinator EnCompass™ edge

Affordable and Efficient
The LED Destinator EnCompass™ system is affordable and will allow you to offer passengers enhanced services through better communication throughout the bus, as well as messaging directly to their PDA or cell phone. Such efficiency will result in increased ridership and better revenues. Configurable via a secure web interface with pre-set routes, interest points, and landmarks, these transit signs will allow you to display custom messages at each desired geolocation trigger point. Route updates are also applied automatically to each device wirelessly at chosen intervals. The optional 3G/cellular dispatch system can remotely assign message updates, detours, and stop changes, and provides instant communication between drivers and dispatch operations.

Safe and efficient
Safety is at the core of this technology. As messaging is driven by automation, drivers can focus on their core task – driving. Without the distraction and botheration of having to change messages periodically. Driving gets safer even as your transit agency acquires the good reputation of delivering accurate messaging and transporting passengers safely. Efficiently too, as passengers get real time route information and fewer service interruptions caused by equipment failure or human error.

Superior travel experience

With this system, travel will become a pleasure for your passengers. The destination/route information is clear, accurate and timely. It enables the synchronization of interior messages, next stop announcements and more. Agencies now have an opportunity to generate additional revenue through merchant advertising in the vicinity of each bus stop, triggered by its geolocation. Other exciting features include an Automated Voice Announcement, Passenger Counting and GPS/AVL Tracking

In keeping with the times

The transportation industry today has new and effective means for displaying information that is essential for the daily traveler. New technology innovations have added to the entire traveling experience and have made it more passenger-oriented with advanced passenger information systems
For more than 55 years we have provided the transit industry with high quality, durable destination signs, complimented by a reputation of superior customer service and support. Transign was founded by James Youngblood in 1959 with a commitment to “Quality Products backed by Quality Customer Service” and rapidly became the established market leader in a variety of innovative products for the transit industry.

Who are the Millennials?

The largest and the most diverse generation in American history, the Millennial Generation are those born between 1982 and 2003.

How are Millennials influencing the transit world?

• According to US PIRG’s report, “A New Direction: Our Changing Relationship with Driving and the Implications for America’s Future.”
• This generation finds public transportation the best for digital socializing
• They work as they travel, a trend noted by 40% of those polled.
• Reasons and motivations for transportation choices are pragmatic, with 46% stating that a need to save money drives their decisions; 46% also note convenience, 44% want to exercise, and 35% say they live in a community where it just makes more sense to use transit. With the car ownership rate for people between the ages of 18 – 34 down over 30% compared to generations past Millennials tend to use the most convenient mode of transportation available to them at any given time.

In short they want a free and convenient lifestyle, and technology to help them become more efficient.

How should Transit related businesses react to Millennials?

Advancements in technology and multiple choices of transportation methods are catering to this vast and flexible demographic. Businesses that understand the importance of convenience and build upon their technology base while also realizing that Millennials are a lifestyle (not a demographic) and are the ones with a healthy future. Moving forward, that needs to be catered to for success.

Current Moves in the Transit destination Sign business

Connected devices

The bus stop sign is a LED display installed at bus stops that provide arrival times of approaching buses to waiting passengers. Details may include line number, destination, and arrival time. Some bus stop display models are also able to display additional messages and full matrix graphics. An optional button-activated audio voice announcement system is also available. The bus stop displays can also be integrated with a fleet management system and updated in real time. Connection options include both wired and wireless communication.

Integrated Passenger Information Systems

This system is designed to provide passengers with information on weather and route change etc. They allow passengers to monitor and plan schedules and to communicate and report issues to management.
LED Bus Signs (interior and exterior)

Interior facing LED signs communicate to existing passengers hazard alerts and inclement weather warnings. Also safety practices and regulations with driver interaction or distraction. Exterior facing bus signs communicate with waiting passengers and potential clients, also with other drivers, pedestrians, and potentially law enforcement agencies. An emergency button/panic switch “silent alarm” activates the exterior signs to read EMERGENCY CALL 911 and can alert dispatch operations and emergency services.

Integrated Safety Systems

Integrated safety systems provide a comprehensive capture of safety events on transit vehicles giving agencies faster insights into risk and better tools to protect passengers and the public.

Smartphone Devices

Intelligent Transportation Systems with GPS that track and monitor buses display real-time vehicle location and allow passengers to plan their trips and wait times accordingly. Real-time information such as this satisfies Millennial’s technology demands. Not only do public transport companies need to meet this consumer demand, but are also competing with UBER’s availability and smartphone application, so signage companies need to keep up with this dynamism.
WiFi and GPS systems

Millennials are driving the transit signage industry with key behavioral showings like Wi-Fi requirement for their laptops and mobile phones as they work during their commute. There is also an increase in ridership and pedestrian traffic amongst their generation calling for energetic and purposeful transit signage.

Contact Transign for your destination sign

For more than 55 years Transign has provided the transit industry with high quality, durable destination signs backed by superior customer service. Founded by James Youngblood in 1959 with a commitment to “Quality Products supported by Quality Customer Service.” Transign rapidly became the established market leader in a variety of innovative products for the transit industry.

Areas of Expertise

• Interior and exterior LED destination and passenger information signs.
• Automated voice announcements.
• Geo-location tracking and message delivery.
• Smart device passenger information applications.
• Passenger counting solutions.
• Dynamic reporting tools

Though passenger safety regulations’ controlled by FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) and APTA (American Public Transportation Association) have mandated maximum occupancy, proper installation and safety techniques for equipment, and appropriate communication of passenger safety regulations, passenger safety on America’s public Transit is still lacking on many fronts.

Public Transit: Fraught with dangers

• Very poor communication of passenger safety rules.
• Stationary signs are crowded, unnoticed, and ineffective.
• Drivers have many other responsibilities, and cannot relay safety information or stop information to each passenger without causing other hazards.

As a result of these inadequacies implementing automated systems are becoming the standard way to deal with increased passenger expectations and the rise in traffic, congestion, and other road vulnerabilities.

These systems are wide ranged and comprehensive to include Intelligent Transit Systems, Integrated Passenger Information Systems, LED Bus Signs, Automated voice announcements, visible indicators and sensors for pedestrians “pedestrian safety” and LED Stop Signs.

What are Intelligent Transit Systems (ITS)?

• GPS-guided and automated they function to reduce driver distraction.
• Alert drivers and dispatch to maintenance, safety, or equipment issues.

How can LED bus signs enhance your passengers’ safety and overall experience?

Integrated Passenger Information Systems

• Display schedule, weather, and route changes.
• Allow passengers to monitor and plan schedules.
• Allow passengers to communicate and report issues to management.

LED bus signs (interior and exterior)

• Interior facing to communicate to existing passengers.
• Can include hazard alerts and inclement weather warnings.
• Communicates safety practices and regulations with driver interaction or distraction.

Exterior facing to communicate with waiting passengers and potential clients

Also communicates with other drivers, pedestrians, and potential law enforcement
An emergency button/panic switch “silent alarm” activates the exterior signs to read EMERGENCY CALL 911 and can alert dispatch operations and emergency services.

Automated voice announcements (AVA)

• Ensures all communication is easily seen and or/heard.
• Ensures disabled, blind, and elderly passengers receive full communication.
• Automated by GPS or other specific triggers with little or no driver involvement

External indicators and sensors for pedestrians “pedestrian safety”

• Can announce and flash to pedestrians to avoid bus traffic.
• Can alert driver to pedestrians in vehicle route.
• Activated by turn signal.

LED stop sign

• Can be used to increase safety for all drivers, especially school buses and paratransit vehicles without clearly marked stops.
• Can trigger automatically based on vehicle proximity to stop.
• Can visually and audibly warn passengers that the vehicle will be stopping prior to brakes being applied.

Contact Transign for your destination sign

For more than 55 years Transign has provided the transit industry with high quality, durable destination signs backed by superior customer service. Founded by James Youngblood in 1959 with a commitment to “Quality Products supported by Quality Customer Service.” Transign rapidly became the established market leader in a variety of innovative products for the transit industry.

Areas of Expertise

• Interior and exterior LED destination and passenger information signs.
• Automated voice announcements.
• Geo-location tracking and message delivery.
• Smart device passenger information applications.
• Passenger counting solutions.
• Dynamic reporting tools

As we mentioned previously in Universal Integration – Simplicity in Operation, the connected devices of an ITS (Intelligent Transportation System) work together to increase safety and efficiency by simplifying the roles of maintenance, directors, and operators. The benefit to passengers, however, goes far beyond these “bottom line” conversations and enters the realms of public safety, accessibility, and basic human needs. While all passengers benefit from good communication and a well-maintained fleet, those with disabilities require additional services and hardware in order to navigate the transportation system. By connecting multiple devices to a central Mobile Data Terminal (MDT), these additional services are relatively easy to provide, and will help to increase passenger comfort, safety, and ultimately ridership.

The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 specifies a number of required devices for each transit vehicle operating medium-to-large fixed routes—so many that bus operators have a hard time maintaining all the systems and announcements that are required. Many transit agencies are discovering the benefits of integrated software solutions and ITS to help manage these services. All connected devices, including LED Destination signs, interior passenger information displays, stop requested signs/chimes and voice announcements will operate from one central MDT to incorporate GPS and automate displayed messages and announcements.

The ADA requires a Public Address System / Passenger Information System for “vehicles in excess of 22 feet in length, used in multiple-stop, fixed-route service.”This passenger information system “shall be equipped with a public address system permitting the driver, or recorded or digitized human speech messages, to announce stops and provide other passenger information within the vehicle.” With integrated automated voice announcements, location or time based information can be easily delivered to on-board passengers or those waiting at stops. Pedestrian safety alerts, such as “bus approaching” can be enabled at busy intersections or crosswalks. While intended to offer services to the vision-impaired, voice announcements increase communication with all riders and can be used to build public relations or branding/advertisement campaigns, as well.

The ADA also specifies that “where passengers may board or alight at multiple stops at their option, vehicles in excess of 22 feet in length shall provide controls adjacent to the securement location for requesting stops and which alerts the driver that a mobility aid user wishes to disembark. Such a system shall provide auditory and visual indications that the request has been made.” By integrating Stop Request signs with the public address system, the simple chime now becomes a full Next Stop Announcement platform. Visual indicators, such as interior information signs, can display not only that a stop was requested, but specifically which stop or intersection it is approaching, assisting hearing impaired passengers in route planning and accuracy. Chime systems and other audible indicators will not only announce that a stop is approaching, but specify which stop/intersection, or other safety announcements such as “watch your step” or “exit rear”. A simple stop request system is now a public relations tool, suitable for localized marketing/advertisement, and customizable to ensure that your organization’s most impactful messages are always being heard and/or seen.

To complete the integrated onboard communication package, fleets should also incorporate their exterior destination signs. The ADA stipulates that “where destination or route information is displayed on the exterior of a vehicle, each vehicle shall have illuminated signs on the front and boarding side of the vehicle.” By using LED Destination signs, such as the LED Destinator® by Transign®, the front and side readings can be programmed to each display different messages. Most commonly, these signs display the approaching stop, and are manually controlled by the vehicle operator; however, by combining destination signs with public address systems, automated voice announcements, next stop announcements, and interior displays, there is no limit to the amount or type of information that can be delivered—and all with the safety and reliability of an automated GPS-based system.

The Transign LED EnCompass® system is designed to provide a fully automated fleet management solution by offering LED Destination Signs (for front, side, or rear), route boxes, emergency button systems, interior LED and LCD displays, next stop announcements and stop requests, and automated interior and exterior voice announcements as one customizable package. The Transign LED EnCompass® will not only satisfy your ADA compliance, but will provide a platform on which to build a personalized and customized experience for your riders. If your agency is already using a GPS-based ITS software, Transign® can offer integration-ready LED signs and other hardware solutions that will communicate with third-party MDTs via J1708/J1587 or RS232/RS485.

While ADA compliance is the minimum standard, we all strive for safer, more efficient transit systems. Back-up cameras, emergency buttons and communication tools, pedestrian safety alerts, and even inclement weather announcements are just a few of the services that connected passengers have come to expect from modern-day transit providers and operators. Since the ADA of 1990, technology has improved such that no passenger, regardless of ability, should struggle with understanding transit systems or feel unsafe while traveling. Transign remains dedicated to providing cutting-edge solutions to increase utilization of our transit systems, and to ensuring the safest and most efficient experience for passengers and operators alike.