Real-time information refers to schedules that have been updated with the latest trip information. Predicting when your bus or train will depart relies on data from sources such as routing and the Global Positioning System (GPS). These predictions are used by our customer information systems and shared with app developers. Real-time travel tools can help you plan and adjust your trips for the best travel experience.
OC Transpo has a variety of real-time travel tools to help you plan trips reliably:
All travel tools look for and indicate the best prediction for departures based on data sources, such as:
When reliable real-time data is available, our travel tools indicate real-time departures. On screens, this is usually marked by an asterisk. On the OC Transpo app, the time is marked in green. When a trip departs exactly at its scheduled time, it will appear as a scheduled departure.
When there is no real-time data available for a route, trip, or stop, the travel tools will provide the scheduled departure time. (Example: When a request has been made before the trip has started).
There are a number of other scenarios in which providing real-time information is limited:
OC Transpo is committed to ensuring that you receive accurate, relevant, and timely information regarding service disruptions for all parts of the system.
We are working to fill vacant bus operator positions and increase training sessions throughout the year. Our priority is to reduce any effects on service as we aim to reduce the number of trips that are not delivered or arrive late. We expect service reliability to increase as new bus operator trainees graduate and are booked to work.
There has also been a recent investment in a generational update to our control/dispatch system for operations. All of our buses are equipped with a system that indicates the status and real-time location of in-service buses. This updated system will ultimately lead to more reliable information for customers.
OC Transpo continues to consider new methods of publishing data to expand options to customers:
The solutions will need to bring together all published data in a way that all customers can easily understand and access via their preferred channels.