The world gets smarter - SmartBus

Whether you use public transport or not, you've probably noticed an update to the boring old bus stop in your metropolitan area? Digital signage which dynamically displays the arrival time of the next bus? You might think this is quite a simple thing to do, but take into account the accuracy provided... here's how they do it:

If a bus is running late, a GPS (global positioning system) communicates the location of the bus to the SmartBus control centre who will then link into the VicRoads traffic control system and request priority. The green light stays green for longer, letting the bus through - which means it gets to you on time.

The electronic display at the bus stop will update, letting you know exactly how many minutes until the bus arrives and vision impaired passengers can press a button for an audio message.

And still on public transport, check out the new ticketing system soon to arrive in Victoria - called MYKI. A cross between an eTag and a credit card, you purchase a MYKI (looks just like a plastic credit card) and load it up with dollars. As you get on public transport, you scan it. Then scan again as you get off. MYKI calculates the best fare for you based on your start and end points and the fare is deducted from your card.