Imagination – the Only Limit on Data

Data is all around us and the sources available grow on a daily basis. The complexity of the rail network means it not only generates vast amounts of data but is also influenced by other seemingly disconnected events. The weather, for example, can make a big difference to whether train services suffer any disruption. A concert or sporting event could lead to unusual peaks in passenger numbers. Even traffic problems or roadworks can influence how busy a rail service is. The point here is that data from multiple, varied sources can impact rail services - and having access to this data can all help operators to anticipate and respond to the day to day challenges they face in keeping train services operating smoothly.

Not only can data help with managing events or interruptions to normal service, it can also help individual customers on their end to end journeys. Access to information about connecting services or other forms of transport, such as the London Underground, trams or buses, can help customers get where they need to be on time – and that’s really the whole point of the rail network. People are not buying a train journey, they are putting their faith in a service to get them where they need to be, on time and without inordinate amounts of stress. Social media is another valuable data stream that can help monitor and manage customer expectations, giving staff the opportunity to proactively respond to customers’ needs or concerns. 

Data can help with all these things – but only if it is brought together in a cohesive manner that turns disparate pieces of data into valuable, pertinent information for the user.

Of course, it is not only real-time data that can help with the running of the rail network. Historical data can also be used to estimate the impact of events. For example, if a lorry hits a bridge under a rail line, previous similar incidents could be used to predict how long it will take for the section of the line to re-open. 

At the end of the day, the possibilities of using data are only limited by the imagination. A system that is designed to bring similar and disparate data sets together can accept inputs from anywhere. If the train operating company thinks a piece of information can help enhance customer service and experience, it can be added in. The ARRAKIS smart communications suite is designed to do exactly this. Naturally, it brings in data from Tyrell IO and Darwin, but it can accept data from any other number of sources. Once data is connected, advanced analytics, machine learning and even (in the future) artificial intelligence can be used to translate this into clearly presented, meaningful information and suggested actions to alleviate the impact of any event across the network.

Modern communication platforms can do anything in terms of what information they use, how they use it and how it is presented to help with decision making, customer experiences and other business goals. They can relay information to staff and customers based on relevance and individual preferences. With data swarming all around us, use is only limited by imaging what could be done. There is no practically no ceiling and no limit with modern computing power. Data is all around us and the technology is ready and waiting: The only question is how do you want to use it?

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