Public transport plays an important role in the lives of Singaporeans. It is their first choice of people here when it comes to the mode of transportation for daily activities. With the growing population and rapid digitalisation, the government and transport operators are investing in emerging technologies to make the public transport system even more reliable, comfortable, efficient, and affordable with fewer breakdowns and better services.
Harnessing the power of big data and analytics in the Singaporean public transport network can provide multiple benefits, such as intelligent ticketing systems, real-time monitoring, better forecasting, improved waiting times, and higher commuter convenience.
To improve the country’s transit system, SMRT Ventures, the corporate venture arm of SMRT public transport operator, has recently invested in Swiftly Inc. Swiftly uses big data, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and Internet of Things to transform urban transportation systems. Founded in 2015, Swiftly has successful partnerships with over 80 transport networks in Western Europe, Asia, and North America.
Swiftly has created a big data platform to analyze data of daily ridership and transport operations. Its big data platform has helped many transit companies to improve arrival predictions, infrastructure planning projects, and more. The company also helps rail transit networks to integrate with other modes of transportation for better rider experience. On the other hand, SMRT is a leading multi-modal transport services provider in Singapore. It serves millions of passengers daily by offering safe and reliable mass rapid transit services, bus services, and taxi services.
Mr. Seah Moon Ming, SMRT Chairman, believes that continuous improvement and transformation are the keys to success. He said, “We will continue to invest in People and Technology. Kaizen and continuous improvement efforts will also be deepened at the individual, system, and company levels.” By investing in Swiftly’s big data platform, SMRT will be able to introduce innovative train technologies and new models in urban transportation. By partnering with SMRT, Swiftly will be able to accelerate its growth in the Asia region.
Conclusion
The integration of big data analytics and other emerging technologies in transit networks can improve predictions, promote reliability, and increase operational efficiency. Big data platforms can connect every element of the public transport ecosystem and deliver critical real-time information. SMRT’s investment in Swiftly has helped to accelerate the process of integrating big data technology into the Singaporean public transportation system. This is a small yet significant step by SMRT toward actualizing the Smart Nation Vision of Singapore.
