Mobility systems: what are the challenges posed by opening to competition?

Faced with new challenges due to the opening up of rail transport services to competition, the shift away from carbon-based transport and the increasing complexity of transport pricing, mobility authorities need to rethink their digital tools and associated services to ensure the right to mobility for everyone, everywhere, within and between regions. For Selma Harri, Business to Government Development Manager for SNCF Connect & Tech, having a multi-vendor, multi-channel, customisable and robust platform is the key to connected and integrated travel.

Selma Harri reminds us that, "by 2031, all regional mobility authorities will have to take over responsibility for distributing all transport tickets, whether train, coach or other forms of public or shared transport."
 

With the opening up to competition, a two-fold challenge is emerging that requires centralising multimodal distribution, while meeting the growing expectations of users for simplified services tailored to their needs. "Travellers want access to a comprehensive travel offer, all in a single application. In this context, increasing the number of tools in step with travel options is neither viable for mobility authorities, nor satisfactory for users. Local authorities must therefore rely on interoperable solutions, capable of managing a variety of services while ensuring an optimal user experience," continues Selma Harri.

To meet these needs, SNCF Connect & Tech has designed a white-label interoperable mobility platform, offering access to all passenger information, route planning, ticket distribution (sales & after-sales), ticket delivery (standardised barcode, NFC) and payment services. "This SaaS solution is based on a modular architecture and a robust, scalable infrastructure, integrating the full breadth and depth of offers for mobility authorities and users," explains Selma Harri, adding that the platform is thus able to offer centralised, personalised transport management.

The advantages of such a tool are:
 

• Enhanced interoperability: transport tickets are used in a streamlined, consistent way, whatever the operator or mode of transport, available in NFC or 2D barcode format. This dual solution guarantees compatibility with different ticketing systems, and facilitates fare agreements between mobility authorities.
   
• An optimal user experience: an application and website that offer personalised routes and fares, thanks to a gateway between passenger information and the online store. 
   
• A 100% white-label customisable solution: colours, logos and fare offers can be adapted to the brand identity, transport policy and specific needs of each mobility authority.