Train Operating Companies in Britain are set to publish more real-time information to enable tech firms to develop better and more intelligent travel apps in the future. This is all under new plans announced this week by the Rail Minister Jo Johnson and Rail Delivery Group Chief Executive, Paul Plummer.

The aim of this is for closer working between rail and tech firms to bring more hassle-free journeys and better information on delays for passengers.

The government and the Rail Delivery Group have published the ‘Joint rail data action plan’ which sets out the deadlines for delivering on these ambitions.

On top of the data which is already available to passengers, more data will be released over the coming months, which will provide more timely information about train services. Information will also be available about the carriages that make each train, enabling train operators to communicate on board facilities.

What did the officials say?

Transport Minister Jo Johnson said:

This will speed the development of travel apps that provide passengers with helpful information about their journeys.

Chief Executive of the Rail Delivery Group, Paul Plummer, said:

Technology gave rise to the railway, connecting Britain, and the rail industry wants to channel this spirit to help produce cutting-edge products and services that can be exported around the world.

Digital technology in rail already means more timely information and less time spent waiting, helping to put customers in charge, and as part of the rail industry’s plan to change and improve we want to use technology to give customers more and more control.

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