Technology Overview

Dispatcher updates schedules in real time
and communicates with drivers.

Use CADS To:

Optimize vehicle dispatching and scheduling.
Reduce time between pick-ups.
Reduce call-ahead reservation time.
Automating reservations, billing, and reporting.

Computer-Aided Dispatch and Scheduling (CADS) is a widely adopted software technology used by human services transit agencies because it can rationalize operations, result in cost savings, and improve service. CADS is most often used to assist schedulers in preparing efficient vehicle schedules because it can optimize the number of trips that each vehicle can provide each day while minimizing nonrevenue miles and passenger wait times. It is often relied on by dispatchers to reroute vehicles when unexpected changes in schedule occur due to heavy traffic or altered pick-up times, or when additional service trips are needed. CADS can also facilitate reservations, billing, and reporting activities.

CADS is often used as a support tool for staff, particularly those performing reservations and scheduling; it is possible to design systems to automate reservation requests and confirmations, billing, and reporting. It is often implemented in conjunction with Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL). Using Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers and satellites, AVL tracks the real-time location of vehicles, allowing CADS to update schedules in real time.

CADS is most appropriate for human services agencies or brokerages with more than five vehicles. It is particularly useful for agencies where trip demand changes daily, for those that allow day-of-travel reservations, and for those where demand exceeds capacity (thus saving the agency from purchasing additional vehicles).