September 2007

Common Technology Combinations

Daily Operations

Combined with Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), AVL optimizes dispatching and allows each vehicle to service more passengers. Agencies often realize reductions in nonrevenue miles, passenger wait times, and fleet size. AVL is utilized by Transit Signal Priority (TSP) systems through the detection of specific transit vehicles as they approach select intersections.

Safety and Security

AVL data displayed on a GIS map facilitates incident response.

Systems Planning and Fleet Management

AVL data can be used for systems planning and fleet management. When this data are combined with bus stop and facility inventory data, they can be mapped on GIS. These data can also be linked to Automatic Passenger Counters (APC) to gather ridership information by location and time. The data can be used for planning routes, schedules, and facility and fleet requirements.

Traveler Information

When linked to an electronic traveler information infrastructure, an AVL system will provide information on expected arrival times.

Electronic Fare Payment

An AVL system will collect fare information by location and trigger electronic fare boxes to accept different payment amounts across fare zones.