On 3 June, ITS UK organised a workshop with the Department for Transport to understand the role that data could play in supporting the travelling public to make more seamless journeys across different modes.

With an Integrated National Transport Strategy and Transport Data Action Plan on the horizon, it was a great opportunity to bring together the transport technology sector to work out where gaps, standards, or a lack of sharing were holding back data from being used to its full potential.

The workshop asked attendees to look at a given multi-modal journey made by one of DfT’s user personas (often describing a journey that had not gone as well as it could have) and to ask: what data would have helped make the journey better, and how?

Below is an overview of some of the discussions we heard around the room.

The challenges

It was clear that – whilst the transport network produces a huge amount of usable data – there were areas where gaps, inconsistencies, or a lack of user-centric design were limiting effectiveness.

‘Ghost buses’, inaccurate timetables, and a lack of integration were all mentioned as undermining user trust, and data gaps such as occupancy levels, accessibility features, interchange locations and times, and origin-destination (OD) data were highlighted as barriers.

Other challenges raised around the room included how we ensure integration between different journey planning apps and ticketing systems. It was clear that no journey is the same, and no transport user is either, so providing intuitive interfaces and personalised recommendations was seen as essential for enhancing the user experience.

This was particularly important for inclusive mobility, where data on wheelchair accessibility, parking facilities, and staff availability must be more comprehensive and user-friendly.

Potential solutions

Whilst there was an acknowledgement of the complexity of the technological and commercial environments, there were some clear insights into what could be done. Standardising data sets, increasing the opportunity for crowdsourced data, and the greater use of AI tools to provide tailored recommendations were all mentioned.

Supporting infrastructure, including IT systems and the 5G network, as well as offering an ‘open by default’ approach to data from public sector bodies, were seen as measures that could be implemented in the short term.

Working together

A common theme was that better use of data relied on multiple organisations across both the public and private sectors. Whether it was the Department for Transport working with local, combined, or transport authorities, or businesses working with government (at all levels), no one organisation was going to find the solution alone. A collaborative effort emerged as the best way forward.

And, in a tough economic environment, understanding how the sector can do more with less was seen as pivotal.

Conclusion

As we look ahead, it’s clear that smarter use of data holds the key to unlocking seamless, multi-modal journeys. Real progress will depend not only on technological innovation but on collaboration, standardised access, and putting users first.

Thank you to all who attended and took part in the workshop.