What is Account-Based Ticketing (ABT)?
Due to the widespread adoption of contactless credit/debit cards and smartphones, transportation providers are implementing new transit ticketing systems that eliminate the need for passengers to purchase a ticket before boarding. These systems, known as Account-Based Ticketing (ABT), offer passengers the flexibility to use their mobile phone, contactless card, or another form of identification as their method of payment for transit.
ABT systems allow transportation providers to move away from traditional, closed ticket systems and the costs associated with issuing paper, smartcards, and magstripe tickets and handling cash. Instead of paying for each trip separately, riders purchase a stored value or pass on an account, which they can then use to pay for multiple trips on different transit modes or systems. Traditional fare payment systems require passengers to add value to mag-stripe cards or smartcards or purchase passes before travelling. With ABT, however, passengers simply tap their preferred fare media when boarding and fares are calculated and payment processed after the journey by the back-office.
Here are some key advantages that make ABT a promising future for transit ticketing.
For Riders
1. Better customer service
One of the key benefits of account-based ticketing is increased convenience for users. ABT allows for real-time data to be provided to riders, such as account balance and recent trip history, as well as easy account management such as reloading, blocking lost cards and viewing fare history.
2. Security
Another benefit of account-based ticketing is improved security. Because the tickets are tied to individual accounts, it is much harder for fraudulent tickets to be used. This can help to prevent ticket fraud and ensure that only legitimate ticket holders are able to attend events.
3. Dynamic Pricing
ABT also allows for dynamic pricing, meaning fares can change based on the time of day or the level of demand. This can be beneficial for both transit agencies and riders, as it can encourage riders to travel during off-peak hours, which can help reduce congestion and make public transportation more efficient.
For Operators
1. Increased revenue & flexibility
ABT allows operators to offer dynamic pricing, which means that fares can change based on the time of day or level of demand. This can encourage riders to travel during off-peak hours, which can help reduce congestion and improve the efficiency of public transportation. Operators can offer various fare options and discounts, which can attract more riders and increase revenue.
2. Improved ridership data
ABT systems allow operators to better track and manage ridership, providing valuable data that can be used to plan for future expansion or changes and improve service.
3. Reduced costs
The use of smart cards or other electronic payment methods can be more efficient than traditional paper-based systems.
4. Reduced fare evasion
ABT systems can reduce fare evasion by making it more difficult for riders to bypass the fare payment system.
5. Integrated system
ABT allows for integration across multiple transport operators, making it convenient for riders to pay for fares on different transport modes or systems.
Overall, account-based ticketing systems are a modern, convenient, and cost-effective way for public transportation agencies to manage fares and ridership. They offer greater flexibility and convenience for riders, and can help transit agencies better plan for the future and improve service.
Need help? Book a call with us and we are happy to tell you more!
