Priority Passenger – Facilitation on Public Transport
Brakar is the premier public transport authority in the Buskerud region, in Norway. They administer 350 buses, and always aim to accommodate their passengers’ needs.
Case Study Details
- ClientBrakar
- LocationDrammen and Oslo, Norway
- Year2021
The Challenge
Brakar recognised that boarding the right bus presents a challenge for blind and visually impaired passengers. As there are several bus lines sharing the same stops, this passenger group sometimes has trouble differentiating between the different lines, as well as the sound of a bus and other vehicles. It could also be difficult for the bus driver to spot them along a busy road as many do not use a white cane, or are accompanied by a guide dog.
Brakar aims to meet the expectations of the visually impaired/blind to travel freely and safely – like everyone else. As a result, Brakar contacted Kogenta to find a sustainable solution that would benefit both passengers and drivers.
While working on this specific case we saw how the solution is highly scalable and will be able to provide the same value for people with other disabilities, as well as passengers who might need more time to board and disembark.
Comfort and Safety
After close communication with Brakar, representatives from the Norwegian Association for the Blind (Blindeforbundet) and the bus operators, mapping out the desired features, Kogenta started the development of a technological platform.
We are currently at the physical testing stage, making sure the technology performs as intended, while getting invaluable feedback from participating stakeholders and Priority Passengers.
This technology can be implemented into public transport provider company’s applications, and will then be a part of an elevated service for their customers.
The software will allow the passenger to choose which line he or she wants to travel with. When they are at the bus stop of the selected bus line, the software will detect them and a message will be sent to the applicable bus drivers screen, letting them know at which stop the Priority Passenger awaits. The passenger will then be able to enjoy a more comfortable and worry-free journey.
Being able to navigate the physical world aided by digital solutions will impart the opportunity to expand travel possibilities for all Priority Passengers.
“We had been searching for a partner to realise the idea for a long time, and when we met Kogenta it was a perfect match. Together we are now testing a solution we believe will make everyday life so much better for the blind and visually impaired when travelling on public transportation.”
