Reading Buses is the first operator to utilise a new technical innovation that sees its drivers use ticket machines to enter vehicle inspection reports.
It is a result of integration between system suppliers Ticketer and Freeway and is seen by the operator as an important step in managing its fleet and compliance.
Upon entry by the driver, the inspection data updates the central fleet maintenance system in real time, eliminating subsequent manual entry of reports. With data received automatically from Ticketer’s machines, defects are immediately flagged on Freeway for appropriate action.
Says Head of Engineering and Innovation John Bickerton: “Although there are smartphone apps for pre-check inspections, we were concerned about extending the use of mobile devices to drivers when they already had a data entry terminal for ticketing.
“With Freeway now able to receive inspection reports wirelessly from ticket machines, we no longer have the administrative burden of reviewing defect cards manually.
“We have instant, accurate data on the system before the bus leaves the depot. It means that we can improve workshop scheduling and deal with any issues immediately, minimising operational disruption.”
