For our transit agencies out there, have you ever been frustrated with how many steps it takes to get your route schedule from your desk to a public, published feed? Enter data pipelines: a simple way to collect, clean up, and diagram data so it can be easily used and understood. At Access Tech, we help transit agencies like the City of Sandy and City of Wilsonville improve their data processes with data pipelines.  

But what exactly is a data pipeline? According to Integrate.io, it involves taking data from different sources, making it usable, and putting it into a system where it can be analyzed. Simply put, we take data from different sources and format the information into a flowchart. Think of it as a highway for information. This is crucial for ensuring that transit schedules are accurate and reliable. If you’ve ever waited for a bus that didn’t arrive on time, you know how vital this is! 

Recently, we collaborated with Kevin Chambers, a longtime transit expert from Full Path, to address their GTFS (General Transit Feed Specification) issues. By creating a detailed data map, we pinpointed where the problems were and laid out a clear plan for improvement. Our meetings with both the vendor and agency help break down complex data processes into simple, actionable steps, allowing us to tackle these issues effectively. 

So, why does this matter to our agencies? Enhanced data pipelines lead to better route planning and improved data accuracy. This results in shorter wait times, stress free route changes, and happier riders. Once a pipeline is implemented, you should see significant reductions in delays, demonstrating how real-time data can transform transit operations. 

Ready to Transform Your Transit Operations? 

If you’re part of a transit agency looking to enhance your data processes and improve service, let’s chat! At Access Tech, we’re here to help you operate at your best.