Continuous connectivity is transforming the future of transportation by allowing citizens and employers to fully participate in the digital economy — shaping the physical, social and economic geography of the world.
BAI Communications’ 2019 continuous connectivity research report asked 2,538 rail users in five global cities (Sydney, London, Hong Kong, New York, and Toronto) about their travel experiences and expectations.
It arrived at three global findings:
- Innovative transport systems are a defining feature of smart, world-class cities.
- Commuters require digital access to realize the benefits of living in a smart city.
- Continuous connectivity transforms cities, helping citizens to be happier and more productive, and organizations to innovate and prosper.
Sydneysiders made it clear that they value good connectivity while travelling – in fact, when asked what makes a city world class, they gave the highest response across all cities to ‘good digital connectivity’.
Digital connectivity is also foundational for many of the advanced technologies that are set to transform public transport in the coming years and decades, as public transport expert Adam Cohen notes: “the development and deployment of advanced algorithms, machine learning, and artificial intelligence can support the deployment of public transport innovations such as predictive demand responsive services, electrification, and automation.”
As Sydney continues its path towards digital innovation, the expectations of its transport riders are rising. This report will closely examine what Sydneysiders value most in a world-class city, and how ubiquitous connectivity can help Sydney’s public transport providers rise to meet their customers’ growing needs.
