Mobility platforms and data analytics can add value to transit infrastructure upgrades

Local government officials need to expand their definition of infrastructure, says Konstantin Spasov, vice president of business development at Modeshift. The firm provides account-based fare collection solutions that help transit agencies modernize their urban fare and data collection infrastructure. The company offers tools that enable transit systems to upgrade their end-user technology. The firm’s offerings help agencies improve efficiency and provide sustainable service.

He says infrastructure includes much more than just roads and pavement repairs. “Data analytics tools and mobility platforms added to existing systems can make a huge difference when it comes to planning and operations. These platforms are in high demand right now, especially as cities establish new sustainability goals.” He adds that it’s not necessary to scrap everything and start fresh. Instead, planners just need to think of ways to improve and build on existing transit and other operations.

There is one thing government officials can do to get the most out of these types of infrastructure investments, Spasov tells Co-op Solutions. “It is important to take inventory of current systems and think about how data analytics tools and mobility platforms can improve the overall efficiency of existing systems.”

Spasov says infrastructure teams are relying more on legal and consulting services that focus on helping state and local governments comply with federal funding requirements. “These services ensure that state and local organizations are compliant with requirements for federal grant funding related to transportation and infrastructure projects. With constant regulatory updates, these services are critical to ensure agencies are viable candidates for government funding, which is critical right now as public transit agencies are facing a fiscal cliff.”

What’s more, according to Spasov, data mining software and services are in high demand right now as local governments work to meet the needs of their constituents. “These products create opportunities to analyze large data sets of constituent feedback regarding infrastructure issues, which is an essential step for local government agencies to take as they work to properly allocate resources. Data analysis is also an essential part of any smart city.”

Using technology to save time is crucial, Spasov believes. “Any new software platforms that assist in reducing the time in the procurement review and approval process for infrastructure projects will dramatically reduce employees’ efforts in sifting through thousands of available products.”

Cities and counties have some new ways to procure infrastructure products and services, Spasov explains. He sees software as a service (SaaS) as a potential solution. SaaS allows users to connect to and use cloud-based apps through the internet. “With SaaS offerings and other business models on the rise, organizations should consider buying infrastructure products and services that can be purchased on a monthly basis, with no upfront capital investment. By investing in subscription-based models, local governments can access the latest technology and integrate it with existing infrastructure while lowering upfront costs and improving scalability to keep up with the needs of their constituents and see real results.”

To read the complete article, visit American City & County.