Whether planning a journey or responding to disruption, passengers increasingly rely on clear, responsive digital tools.
RailSmart Dynamic Route Map (DRM) plays a critical role in helping operators communicate clearly with passengers, enabling them to quickly understand services, network changes, and the impact of disruptions.
As passenger expectations around real-time information continue to evolve, the technology providing it must evolve with them. RailSmart DRM has received a series of enhancements designed to support an even clearer, more intuitive passenger experience.
A map that better reflects the real network
Traditional schematic rail maps can make it harder for passengers to understand the network and judge the true distance between stations. This can be particularly challenging for tourists or those unfamiliar with the area.
Through collaboration with the rail industry, the design capabilities within RailSmart DRM have expanded to support alternative map designs, providing a clearer and more intuitive view of the network. the Office of Rail and Road, and build a safer and more resilient rail network.
How it works
- More closely reflects the geographic distance between stations
- Improved sense of scale across the network
- Visual style more aligned with other modern digital mapping tools, creating a more familiar interface
Benefit to passengers
- Easier to understand how stations and routes relate to each other
- A clearer sense of distance between stations, particularly helpful for tourists or unfamiliar passengers
- Faster understanding when viewing the network or responding to disruption
See it live on Greater Anglia’s website.
Bringing the map closer to the passenger: zoom-to-location
Passengers often open a map with a simple goal: “What’s happening near me?”
The new zoom-to-location capability allows the map, with the passenger’s permission, to detect their location and identify the operator’s nearest station, bringing the most relevant part of the network into view instantly.
How it works
- Device geolocation used to identify the operator’s nearest station to the passenger
- Automatic zoom to a defined geographic radius
- Even more impactful if the map is embedded within the operator’s app
Benefit to passengers
- Smoother experience with no need to scroll across the map
- Passengers can instantly see the nearest station and nearby disruption information
- Supports quick, on-the-go travel decisions, particularly during disruption
Supporting better communication with passengers
Through enhancements like zoom-to-location and geographically representative map design, RailSmart DRM is helping operators deliver route maps that are faster, clearer and more relevant to the passenger in the moment.
By continuing to evolve the technology, RailSmart DRM helps operators to:
- Build passenger trust and confidence
- Support improved passenger satisfaction
- Deliver clearer communication, especially during disruption
Learn more about RailSmart DRM and discover how you can enhance the passenger experience.
