The new strategy was officially unveiled by UK transport Minister Jo Johnson and Rail Delivery Group CEO, Paul Plummer. The objective of the initiative is to bring technology and rail companies together to create more seamless, hassle-free journeys for British commuters.
The integration of new technology will also relay better information for passengers in relation to services and potential delays. This efficient utilization of data will also enable rail firms to plan ahead more effectively and will allow them to predict and fix issues before they arise, creating in turn a more reliable railway.
The UK government in collaboration with the Rail Delivery Group which is the representative body for the rail industry has published a joint report entitled as the ‘Rail Data Action Plan' – which outlines in detail the obligations and deadlines for delivering on these ambitions which will be overseen by an industry-led taskforce.
Transport Minister Jo Johnson welcomed the new applications and said they would revolutionize the rail industry. She said, "This will speed the development of travel apps that provide passengers with helpful information about their journeys."
Her sentiments were echoed by Chief Executive of the Rail Delivery Group, Paul Plummer. He said, "Digital technology in rail already means more timely information and less time spent waiting, helping to put customers in charge, and as part of the rail industry's plan to change and improve we want to use technology to give customers more and more control."
In addition to this, the government and rail industry will explore what incentives could be introduced to drive further innovation and data sharing, on top of that already planned.