Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has appointed Softwire, a prominent digital transformation consultancy, to develop the mobile ticketing and real-time journey information app for the Bee Network.
The Bee Network is Greater Manchester’s vision for a high-volume, low-fare transport system akin to London’s, aimed at transforming the way people travel across the city region and supporting its goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2038.
Softwire will be responsible for designing, developing, and deploying the app. The initial version of the app for the Bee Network is scheduled to launch in time for the commencement of TfGM’s locally controlled bus services on 24 September 2023. This app will serve as the primary means for passengers to purchase combined Bee AnyBus + Tram tickets, which are approximately 20 percent cheaper than standalone tickets.
The first version of the Bee Network app will offer the following features:
- Integration of Greater Manchester’s new bus and existing tram services in one platform.
- Access to real-time departure information to assist passengers with their journeys.
- Navigational aids displaying stops and stations on the Manchester transport network.
- The capability to purchase retail tickets across the Manchester transport network.
- In-app mobile tickets that can be used directly from passengers’ mobile devices.
Following the app’s delivery, Softwire will collaborate with TfGM to facilitate knowledge transfer, enabling the organization’s in-house teams to manage ongoing maintenance and future enhancements, building upon the app’s foundation.
Helen Humble, Head of Ticketing at TfGM, stated: “We look forward to working with Softwire to create the first version of the Bee Network mobile app, which will include the foundations on which we can continually enhance the customer experience over the coming years for the benefit of Greater Manchester.”
Alex Wolff, Director of Public Sector & Transport at Softwire, added: “We’re really excited to be helping TfGM deliver on its ambitious Bee Network vision, which will improve the lives of everyone living in, working in, and visiting Greater Manchester, while also helping the region reduce its greenhouse gas emissions from transport.”
Wolff further emphasized the importance of the user experience and Softwire’s expertise in this domain, highlighting their successful work in designing and building apps for the travel industry, including train operator LNER, which currently holds a rating of 4.9 out of 5 on the iOS App Store.
