English

Technology is the vital intermediary between information and the people. Technology provides passengers with the information required to have a successful and seamless trip. The current technology used by SEPTA for informational purposes include printed schedules, a smartphone app, websites, and the passenger information system  (the electronic boards displaying information). These three technologies are used to relay information to the passengers, so they can ride SEPTA more easily. The first form of technology used by SEPTA was the printed schedule. While these were popular in the past, passengers are less willing to carry around a copy today due to the rise of newer technology. As technology evolved, the printed schedules were put on the internet. The internet helped SEPTA improve their information channels and allow it to grow. Passengers were now able to access information remotely, as opposed to just being able to pick up a printed schedule at a station.

Another information technology available is the SEPTA application. This application can be used on your smartphones and tablets. However, people may not have access to the internet from their connected devices when underground for the subway, making it difficult to use the app. Some passengers do not posses connected devices, and those who do may not have the SEPTA app. At the moment, there is a very limited scope for real-time tracking because the printed schedules and the app are not equipped with it, neither are the stations. Real-time tracking is very important, especially to those who are on tight or planned schedules, or caught in  unforeseen events, such as storms, and outages.

Passenger Information Systems are a staple at airports, and have become increasingly common at train stations. They readily provide important information to passengers, and update frequently to reflect any changes. Currently, SEPTA only deploys Passenger Information Systems on the Regional Rail. This is used, mainly for travel to the suburbs and areas around the Greater Philadelphia region.

These technologies are popular and well-suited for SEPTA because they provide detailed and fast information passengers. The same technologies are utilized by most transit systems. Although most of the information is static, it allows the passenger to view specific information for their trip, and prepare for their journey. Overall, the technologies work well, but there is still room for improvement.