Some Factors to Consider

Map illustrating use of AVL by Ottumwa Transit Authority (from Rural ITS Best Practices)

Use of AVL by Ottumwa Transit Authority.
(Source: Rural ITS Best Practices)

Adequate Resources

Capacity for data transmission and storage.
Staff resources to analyze data and maintain and manage AVL system.

Integration

Interoperability with existing and planned technologies.
Flexibility for changes in fleet size.
Component of regional ITS architecture.

Implementation

Testing technology on a subset of vehicles.
Contracting for adequate training of all staff.

AVL systems are core technology only for large rural agencies (30 or more vehicles) and medium-sized agencies (10-30 vehicles) that operate demand-response service. These agencies can spread the cost of the AVL system over a larger fleet size and are most likely to benefit from the increased systems planning and fleet management capabilities provided by AVL. Adding AVL to existing CADS or GIS systems greatly expands the capabilities of these technologies.

AVL systems are available at a wide range of costs and levels of sophistication to satisfy the budget constraints and needs of most agencies. Agencies with limited technical capacity and basic AVL needs may wish to consider off-the-shelf or even web-based systems. Agencies interested in integrating existing ITS systems or desiring specialized features can contract a vendor to install customized, integrated systems.