TransLink’s Innovation and Technology Forum last week appears to have discovered ‘emerging technology’
March 29, 2012
TransLink’s new CEO Neil Scales, pictured, says the Queensland-based public transport authority has discovered how emerging technologies could create a better public transport experience for customers in the 21st Century.
Speaking at last week’s TransLink Transport Innovation and Technology Forum, Scales says real time travel information, mobile journey planning applications and Wi-Fi on trains are just some of the innovative technologies the authority’s customers are asking for.
“As public transport professionals, we have a responsibility to embrace and promote technological innovation in our industry or risk being left behind,” Scales says.
“We’re all interested to learn how we can harness new and emerging technologies to create an even better public transport experience for customers.”
Scales says the conference’s keynote speaker Dr Paul Chan came from one of the world’s largest public transport providers, MTR Hong Kong.
“Dr Chan discussed how to utilise the capability of current smart ticketing systems, such as Go Card, to promote more business opportunities,” Scales says.
“He was a pioneer in the design and subsequent implementation of the Octopus card system, currently operating in Hong Kong.
“Dr Chan has also worked as a consultant for many years in other Asian Pacific regions, including mainland China, so his experience in public transport technology is second to none.”
The second annual TransLink Innovation and Technology Forum – in conjunction with event partner Deloitte – was held on Friday, March 23, attended by 150 local, national and international public transport industry representatives.