• Smart cities using digital intelligence stand to improve quality of
  life, making happier and more productive citizens
• Connected transport networks create city-wide networks that enable
  greater efficiency, safer commuter experiences and broader smart city
  applications

SYDNEY–(BUSINESS WIRE)–BAI Communications, a global leader in communications infrastructure,
today published the results of its global survey, ‘The Continuous
Connectivity Research Report’ to understand how a digitally
connected public transport system can impact citizens lives and
expectations around a city.

The research study, which surveyed over 2,500 rail commuters in five
global cities, revealed that transport systems already play a vital role
in creating smart, world-class cities, with 83% of respondents stating
that innovative transport systems are a feature of a smart city and
almost half (45%) believe a city can’t be considered world-class unless
it has good digital connectivity.

“Everyday tens of millions of people worldwide use public transport;
this critical infrastructure is the backbone of cities and more than
ever citizens are expecting digital innovations that improve their
commute. Digital connectivity is changing our ideas of what makes a city
‘world class’ and regardless of where they are in the world, people want
to live in a city that allows them to work and live better, and
technology is emerging as a key enabler to help citizens reach this
aspiration,” said James Woodhams, Chief Strategy Officer, BAI
Communications.

“The modern commuter isn’t just looking to get from A to B, they are
expecting more from transport networks and want technology to enrich
their journeys. A smart-city commuter will use digital connectivity to
work smarter, live better and reduce stress to create more mindful
trips.”

Continuous connectivity on the public transport system can deliver
significant gains in productivity and liveability, as city dwellers are
able to work more effectively on their commute journeys. Respondents
stated that they could use their travel time to complete work so they
spent less hours in an office (56%), offer the potential for career
improvement (46%) and they would be open to location and housing changes
(45%).

“Imagine the commute experience of a citizen choosing to live in the
outer suburbs but still working in the city. On any given day, they can
stream a video tutorial on the morning commute while downloading a
presentation. Then, they can leave the office early to take a conference
call on the train so they’re home for dinner, arriving relaxed and
happy; this is all made possible with a connected public transport
network,” said Mr Woodhams.

“As we look to improve services and create modern, data-driven cities
that enrich the lives of citizens, seamless digital connectivity is the
foundation needed to achieve this goal.”

Connected transport systems create city-wide networks that enable
greater efficiency, safer commuter experiences and broader smart city
applications. Commuter expectations of their rail network are
increasing, and many of these expectations require continuous
connectivity to enable innovative technology solutions. These
applications include sensors, Machine2Machine learning, Big Data, cloud
computing or other emerging technologies and we are already seeing how
this approach can deliver connected, data-driven transport systems to
unlock new value for both operators and passengers.

Other notable findings from the study included:

Innovative transport systems are a defining feature of smart,
world-class cities

• 99% of rail users expect public transport to do more than just get
  them from A to B.
• 81% of users believe advances in transport-related technology is
  already increasing their use, or changing the way they use public
  transport.
• 83% of rail users think innovative transport systems are features of a
  smart city.

Commuters require continuous connectivity to realise the benefits of
living in a smart city

• 95% of rail users would be more likely to use rail if it deployed
  technology-driven solutions.
• 94% of rail users believe all rail networks should offer digital
  connectivity.

Continuous connectivity transforms cities, helping citizens to be
happier and more productive, and organisations to innovate and prosper

• 96% of rail users believe transport innovation is an important part of
  modern cities.
• 92% of commuters would benefit if they could better enjoy their
  journey if the rail network of the future evolved.
• 73% of rail users say their ideal rail journey would encompass
  logistical improvements.

Mobility Futures Consultant and Transportation Researcher, Adam Cohen
believes that urban transportation is on the verge of rapid
transformation and the convergence of shared mobility, electrification,
and automation will transform how people travel and how cities are built.

“What is clear is that public transportation, cities, and society are on
the cusp of changing rapidly and dramatically as advancements in
mobility technology converge in the marketplace,” said Adam.

“Travellers are leveraging mobile devices and data to make real-time
choices based on factors such as convenience, connection, cost, travel
time, and wait time. They are part of the ‘experience economy’,
they don’t need to take public transportation and agencies need to look
at technology solutions to make travellers want to. Technology can
improve the effectiveness of public transportation by enabling
transportation providers to know their riders’ preferences while
simultaneously enhancing rider convenience.”

For more information and to download the BAI Continuous Connectivity
Research whitepaper, click here.

About BAI Communications

BAI Communications designs, builds and operates communications
infrastructure – cellular, Wi-Fi, broadcast, radio and IP networks –
connecting communities around the world. With a heritage of over 90
years, BAI creates networks that unlock new services and revenue streams
for our customers, enabling them to deliver better connected and
enhanced experiences for people, communities and economies, every day.

With operations in Australia, Canada, Europe, Hong Kong and the USA, BAI
also owns Broadcast
Australia and has a majority stake in Transit
Wireless (New York).

Contacts

Media
Min Chow
E [email protected]
T
+61 3 9604 2753