The STM launches a pilot project to provide access to bus and métro planned schedules

Press release


 

The STM launches a pilot project to provide access to bus and métro planned schedules


Montréal, July 14, 200
9 The Société de transport de Montréal (STM) announces that it will now offer its clientele the opportunity to test a new service that displays the planned bus schedules as well as the planned opening and closing times of the métro. This service is available via a mobile portal adapted to the majority of screens of wireless telephones featuring Internet access. Clients simply have to dial M.STM.INFO to obtain the desired information.

For clients with access to text messaging (SMS for Short Message Service), the STM is also offering the capability to obtain the schedule for the next three buses at the requested stop. To access the schedules via text messaging, clients will dial the abbreviated code 52786 (LASTM). They will then have to type the number of the bus route that they wish to take, followed by the code of the stop where they are located.

For the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr Michel Labrecque, this announcement represents only one step in the implementation of a full information service in real time. ”Our clients are increasingly connected electronically (close to 60%) and within a few years, the great majority will have a multifunction portable device. Access to text messaging (SMS) is already offered by service providers. Multimedia messaging (MMS) and Internet browsing from smartphones will become commonplace. This is why we have to provide fast access to our planned schedules and soon, to schedules in real time. This is an appreciable benefit that will facilitate the planning of trips by our clients.”

For approximately six months, the objective of this pilot project will be to evaluate clients’ interest in obtaining information on services. “Its implementation clearly illustrates the importance that the STM places on continued improvement to its customer service,” added Mr. Labrecque. “This initiative is another indication that the STM is indeed entering the 21st century of public transit.”

The STM has retained the services of LIPSO Systems Inc. for the development of the pilot site and text messaging. “Use of the mobile allows for the implementation of innovative informational and transactional services in a market that values green, efficient solutions,” explained Vivianne Gravel of LIPSO. “LIPSO is very proud to be associated with the STM.”

When planning their travel, clients will now have four ways to access schedules at their stop:
  • via telephone by calling A-U-T-O-B-U-S (514 288-6287)
  • on the Web site: www.stm.info
  • on a portable device with Web browsing capability by dialing M.STM.INFO
  • on a portable device via a text messaging service (SMS) at 52786 (LASTM)

For any other information, clients can always call the STM’s customer service at STM●INFO (514 786-4636).

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