The Community Transport sector has struggled with finding a fit-for-purpose allocation and dispatch software platform which will present solutions for the many special requirements needed in providing accessible transport.   Inadequate technology and operating models has hindered the maximization of efficiencies in the sector which has in turn limited delivery of the potential huge social value created by the sector.  Currently the social value of Community Transport is between $14 - $40 for every dollar inputted into the industry.  With an efficient operational model and technology properly suited to the complexities of the industry, this social value would be significantly increased.

In order to address this gap in technology and develop the best possible operational system for community transport, The Community Transport Company is undertaking a research project with the National University of Singapore which will in turn inform the wider industry on best technology and practice methods for passengers, business and social value.   This will include a review of the value of a mixture of human intervention and technology in the service delivery system, and the suitability of existing models both within and outside of the Community Transport sector.

 

We will present the results of our project to answer the following questions:

 

·        Is human intervention in such a system a positive or a negative?  

·        Should operation models be changed to mirror that of Ambulances, taxis, or other transport services? 

·        Which is the best allocation and dispatch system that can be modified for Community Transport requirements?