Challenges

Journey simulator – public transport Sustainability



Background:

For many people, getting around the city by public transport is relatively simple. For others, however, it can be very challenging, with the need to consider and check obstacles and barriers before and during their journeys. For example, those with low literacy levels may find travelling by public transport too challenging because they cannot read signs and therefore struggle to find their way. Another example could be people with walking difficulties or wheelchair users who need to collect information about accessibility at various points during their journey.

At the moment, these groups may choose to use separate or private forms of transport – such as by taxi –, transport specifically for their target group, or being accompanied/driven by an acquaintance if necessary. Alternatively, they may opt to not travel at all. The Transport Authority Amsterdam aims to encourage and assist these groups to make use of public space and public transport. It is important that public transport and the public space are accessible to everyone.

We want a startup to devise a system to simulate a public transport journey via the internet, so that passengers know what they might encounter and consider how they can deal with potential obstacles and barriers before they travel. Different types of journey simulations should be available for different user groups.

The issue / assignment for startups:

Devise a journey simulator for the Amsterdam Area’s mobility network that focuses on (potential) accessibility issues encountered during journeys. The simulator needs to be kept up to date and passengers must be able to deliver feedback.

Criteria:

The startup needs to be or become fully aware of user wishes with regard to accessibility issues that can be encountered during planned journeys. They should develop the journey simulator in collaboration with user groups.

Issued by:

Vervoerregio Amsterdam (‘VRA’)

Transport Authority Amsterda