Technology In Transportation: Changing Life

Advancement in technology has touched every aspect of our life. Information technologies and software evolutions have made the job easier in almost all business—service oriented or product oriented. Taxis are no exception to that.  Information in business refers as substitute for actual inventory and hence, overall cost of goods. So when it comes to taxi service, the complete and faster information can be obtained, processed and make best decisions for the betterment of agencies’ transportation system. Technologies have made life easier to both sides of taxi industry—existing or potential passengers and taxi drivers.

Potential passengers wait on the curbside and hail incoming taxis but they may pass without noticing or due to pre-occupancy (already booked). The passenger might go to taxi stands for the empty taxi that may be at a distance from your home.

In modern times, most taxis are registered with taxi companies. These companies have their own website, mobile apps and telephone services that allow users to book a ride. No more are the days waiting for a ride and no more for drivers to wait for their potential passengers.  Just a call or tap of fingers and you have your ride waiting at your door.

Taxis were one of the first industries, besides police forces, to use two-way radio operations. This paved way for expanding and enlarging the market which they were attempting to serve. But it had one flaw and that was the use of single frequency to broadcast while requesting for the taxi. Any individual driver regardless of Taxi Company, who was available within few blocks, would arrive to pick the passengers and earn the fare.

Further advancement in radio technology removed this flaw by directing the call to single driver and with GPS technology, the dispatch team would know which and where each vehicle is located. Dispatch team can monitor taxis and record data like speed, locations, status, etc. This will allow dispatchers to take appropriate actions if unexpected happen or some irregularities occur. For any night time driving, this will help to provide safety and security for both driver and passengers.

Not just location of the driver and passengers, GPS technology can aid in reaching the potential passengers and their destination through shortest path possible. GPS and mapping technologies show which path to take as a shortest route. With added real time traffic monitoring system, drivers can search for shortest route with minimal traffic.

Having GPS, the potential passengers would know when the taxi will arrive at their doorstep and get ready accordingly. Users can know where the taxi is parked and get in and reach their destination without having to raise their arm. You find yourself at an unknown part of the city or you were at late night party or gatherings. Instead of waiting for public transport or for friend to pick you up, you can just call or tap your mobile app for the taxi and the vehicle will locate you easily with GPS service.

Payment systems have also seen cashless environment. And with online payment system, you may not need to worry about having not enough cash or negotiating the cash before and after reaching your destination. Your fare has been already fixed while booking the ride.

Technology has created an ease in transportation means. Every booking from taxis to airline are done through internet. You can get a ride in any time of the day or even in the middle of the night.