The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority has endorsed Transit App as “the best app for transit riders in the Greater Boston Area,” according to a Tuesday press release.
Transit App unanimously won the endorsement from a MBTA selection committee after a contest for the best MBTA app began in July 2016, the release stated.
Transit App’s features include real-time schedules, service alerts, offline mobile service, departure alarms and system maps, according to the release. The app will also offer real-time trip planning later this month.
“The contest to become the MBTA’s endorsed app was announced … seven years after the MBTA became a world leader in open data by releasing real-time data to 3rd party developers,” the release stated. “In the years since, dozens of apps have been built on this data with diverse features and functionality. The MBTA decided to endorse and partner with the best of these apps in order to create a better transit experience for its riders.”
Jake Sion, the director of strategy and development for the app, said the MBTA came to the realization that having too many transit app choices was not helping the riders.
“They figured instead of saying to riders, ‘Here are 100 different apps you can use,’ they would say, ‘Here are a 100 different apps you can use, but we recommend this one,’” Sion said.
When users first open Transit App, they will see nearby transit lines and upcoming departures in “big text and bright colors,” Sion said.
“This is why the MBTA chose us, because this is the feature that most people need day in and day out,” Sion said. “We have created a very intuitive app that makes riding transit just a little bit easier, and we are excited to see how Boston reacts.”
MBTA Acting General Manager Brian Shortsleeve said in the release that Transit App enhances customer experience through its practicality and convenience.
“Transit App’s nearby departure times, push notifications for alerts, and step-by-step directions make it incredibly user-friendly,” Shortsleeve said. “Partnering with Transit App also ensures that our customers will have an easy and convenient way to provide feedback which helps the MBTA continue to improve its service.”
Transit App assists in the MBTA’s efforts to improve customer interface and satisfaction, the release stated. Other efforts include the performance dashboard that tracks reliability, ridership and finances of public transportation services, and a survey that measures customer satisfaction.
“Technology will continue to play a key role in the MBTA’s decision making towards improving customer satisfaction,” the release stated.
Boston residents said the app could prove advantageous in commuting since it provides quick access to public transportation information.
Alex Powell, 38, of Brighton, said the app is evidence of technological development in the city, and it could ease him in planning trips.
“I see a distinct advantage,” he said. “When the apps started coming out, there was a problem with things running on time, and technology has improved, and this app can really help you plan your trip.”
Michael Izzo, 50, of Brighton, said the app is beneficial and eases mobility.
“It’s great,” he said. “It really helps. This is the 21st century; we should have it. It helps the commute in the morning.”
Ruth Green, 38, of Brighton, said the app is practical and accurate, and doesn’t confuse riders as much as other apps do.
“The app helps tell me where I am and what bus routes are nearby,” she said. “But the most important part is, it tells me when the bus is coming, and it’s pretty accurate.”
As a person with a disability I have questions for Jake Sion!! How can I reach him?
All My Best!!
Terry~~