Read about the new First Bus ticket machine and app updates here, and find out what RGU student's think about it.
First Bus have introduced a new ticket machine and updated app in an aim to make it easier for its customers and drivers.
A QR code newly introduced to customers’ mobile apps and paper ticket aims to bring simplicity to getting on a bus. Customers now have to scan it on the machine next to the driver that have newly been introduced on buses around Aberdeen. If successful, a green light appears when the ticket is accepted.
However, many have argued that the previous system was working and that the change could potentially delay the speed of getting on a bus. In a survey of 10 Journalism students at RGU, 7 said they had not faced any problems with the new system, with a further two stating that it doesn’t change the time to get on the bus.
This coming after many people had reported issues of Apple and Android pay being activated and interfering with the scanning on mobile apps. Daniel Laird commercial manager of First Bus Aberdeen stated that: “We are working with our app developers at the moment for a resolution; we hope to get this rolled out in the next month or so.”
This method aims to keep tickets secure and allows the bus drivers to gain more data about how often services are used which will, in time, allow them to make improvements to their services.
Mr Laird also stated that First Bus are currently working on some exciting projects in relation to paying schemes on the bus. He stated that: “I can’t give too many details just yet, but the new ticket machines will allow us to accept more methods of payment which means customers won’t need to find the correct change to travel.”
With news of “exciting projects” and the updated system it is evident that First Bus are continuing to improve their services and that the system will be fixed in upcoming months. If you would like to find out more about their service updates follow First Bus on twitter @FirstBusnews.