Although the term “flexible routing” has been introduced a long time ago, the notion “microtransit” is relatively new and just started to gain popularity in 2015. Nowadays, microtransit represents on-demand robust routing that gives people a possibility to travel anywhere within the service area and make adjustments to their orders in real-time. Microtransit can refer to both private means of transportation like cabs or TNCs, and public transport. In comparison to set scheduled routes and paratransit that operates on an appointment-only basis, microtransit enables companies to provide passengers with a flexible solution.
Microtransit Services
To put it simply, imagine using an UberPOOL or Lyft Line app to schedule your ride. This is practically what microtransit is about. Customers can make a trip request from any location within a specified service area by making a call or through an online booking app. However, based on how the company is set up, there’s a probability to be picked up exclusively at the specific bus stops. In order to use vehicle fleets with maximum efficiency, companies offer a variety of options, including a dedicated or paratransit vehicle, and a bus that goes the same direction all the time.
In order to deal with the unexpected requirements, restrictions and the need for social distancing, Lethbridge Transit switched to providing microtransit service in the course of the outbreak of coronavirus disease. In such a way the company made sure that only urgent and important orders were completed in order to keep their passengers healthy, safe and secure.
The Benefits of Microtransit
Microtransit is gaining ground at a very fast pace. Accordingly, companies will be able to efficiently use their resources and decrease the number of automobiles on the roads in their areas. It’s particularly important that microtransit presents a very flexible service and lets users control their personal rides. There’s no longer a need to depend on fixed route service.
Here is a list of the top advantages that microtransit can provide your organization and customers with:
- Affordability – Microtransit is a beneficial alternative that can substitute local transport on inefficient routes or during off-peak hours.
- Expand service area-Provides companies with the access to regions that fixed route transport cannot reach.
- Flexible service– Perfectly suitable for people who work according to specific timetables that do not correspond with fixed transportation schedules.
- Cost-effective – By enabling all types of transport users to share the ride and travel by the same car, transportation agencies can make the most of their resources.
- Efficient-Minimize driver’s time en route by picking up and dropping off passengers at regular stops.
Indeed, the transit industry is extremely fast-growing. Microtransit gives transit agencies a variety of cost-cutting solutions. It can operate with maximum productivity while maintaining a high level of customer service.
