DRIVING THE INDUSTRY SINCE 1991
TRACKING PRODUCTIVITY Akin stressed it is impera-
tive to make IT a part of your team whenever considering new technology. Currently he is looking at different student tracking systems for a trial, yet he won’t make any deci- sion without consulting the key performance indicators (KPIs) he’s developed for his department. “I get various data from the
transportation management software and fleet software. From my standpoint, getting those KPIs in place and look- ing at your data, which will drive your decisions, helps out a lot. And technology really helps you track the KPIs,” Akin said. “I can definitely see a huge change in the mindset of transportation professionals, because we’re looking at tech- nology to help resolve some of
the critical issues we deal with day in and day out.” Te newly hired IT special- ist at the Pupil Transporta- tion Safety Institute (PTSI), Michael Woodworth, credits Executive Director Kathleen Furneaux for creating the new position. Since Febru- ary, Woodworth has been maintaining PTSI’s computer network and website, along with other duties. “Our ability to effectively
communicate to transportation staff on upcoming training options or changes to our curriculum has increased sub- stantially with the inception of my position here,” Woodworth said. “Prior to my arrival, there was no IT position in-house, and the website was almost never updated.” Often, school bus operations lag behind the business sector
in this area. He said one of the biggest challenges transpor- tation departments face is the lack of up-to-date technology. “It’s not uncommon for
transportation directors to be using obsolete hardware, which can prove daunting in terms of compatibility,” he continued. “Due to recent downsizing, lack of funding, and inex- perience, many directors are finding it increasingly difficult to effectively communicate their needs.” Te key is to remain open to
new technology, Woodworth advised, and to be patient with the learning process. “Although the initial switch
to something new can seem frustrating or even impossible at first, rest assured that it is being put in place to benefit you, your department, and your overall productivity,” he said. —
Working in the ‘cloud’
More student transporters are turning to cloud technology for file storage, sharing and backup. This can have have a positive effect on how IT departments interact with transportation departments, writes Eric Woolson in this month’s cover story on page 62.
Outsourcing means savings.
Routings, vehicle maintenance, school bell time management, capital investment, operator training and many other specialties.
Pupil Transportation is a complex business that includes many aspects such as routing, vehicle maintenance, school bell time management, capital investment, operator training and many other specialties. But when you get right down to it, the two most important reasons school districts and private school systems outsource their student transportation are safety and savings. By far, according to independent research, the safest way for children to get to and from school is on yellow school buses. It’s safer than walking, riding a bike, public transportation, taxis and even being dropped off and picked up by a parent. Independent research also tells us that outsourcing can save school districts 10% or more in their transportation costs.
www.atlanticexpress.com 7 North Street, Staten Island, NY 10302
busdev@atlanticexpress.com 1-800-336-3886 ext. 8073
www.stnonline.com 23
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