Challenge

Agencies often provide service patterns where vehicles travel into a central area (Inbound) and then return in the opposite direction (Outbound), rather than running a circular loop. Without built-in support for these patterns, route configurations may not fully reflect real-world operations. This makes it harder to:

• Model directional service accurately
• Share precise routing data with riders and partners
• Maintain consistency in GTFS datasets for compliance and planning

Impact

Accurate route representation is essential for:

• Clear rider communications and direction-specific trips
• Efficient scheduling and resource allocation
• Reliable performance tracking by direction
• Integration with downstream systems using GTFS and GTFS-RT

Solution

Support for In/Out routes enables agencies to design, publish, and maintain directional service patterns within the same workflow used for loop routes.

1. Create Distinct Inbound and Outbound Routes

• What it does: Allows configuration of one-way routes for each direction of travel
• Why it matters: Represents service patterns accurately, improving clarity for planners and operators

2. GTFS-Compliant Outputs

• What it does: Ensures GTFS Static files represent In/Out routes correctly
• Why it matters: Maintains compatibility with trip planners, mapping tools, and regulatory reporting

3. Accurate Real-Time Feeds

• What it does: Generates GTFS-RT feeds that align with directional routing
• Why it matters: Keeps riders and downstream applications informed with consistent, accurate real-time data

Workflow

Who uses it: Administrators and schedulers configuring fixed route service
When they use it: During service design, seasonal adjustments, or when creating new routes
What changes in their day:

• Ability to create and manage Inbound and Outbound routes in one interface
• Automatic generation of accurate GTFS files for external partners
• Consistent real-time tracking and display for riders

Impact Summary

• Flexible configuration for both loop and directional routes
• Clear and accurate data for riders and planning tools
• GTFS and GTFS-RT outputs that reflect operational reality
• Better alignment between planning and live service information
• Improved support for agencies with multiple route patterns

Get Support

Email support@transloc.com
Support Phone: 1 (888) 959-3120 x3
Regular Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM ET, Monday – Friday