The SmartBus program utilizes integration technology from Visual Defence to combine an automatic vehicle locating (AVL) system, passenger counting, traffic control system and the city's scheduling software. The SmartBus program enables the buses to precisely report their location and passenger loads through transit signals along the routes. The buses are fitted with an infrared device that sends signals to the city's traffic control system to give the buses priority depending on passenger loads and how far the bus is behind schedule.

"The wealth of information produced by Visual Defence is giving Mississauga transit a greater level of analysis and understanding of our bus system, allowing us to improve the reliability and efficiency of our service," says Fermin Pico, director of services for Mississauga transit "The technology has already started to pay off in more timely service and increasing ridership. Further system adjustments and enhancements will continue to deliver greater ride satisfaction to our customers."

Future enhancements include the integration of the AVL system with the customer website to allow users to view a "racetrack" image of where the buses are on route and receive real-time "next bus" information.

"Collecting several distinct data streams together into a cohesive and usable common management system has given Mississauga Transit the tools it needs to streamline and improve their operations, resulting in increased ridership, greater customer satisfaction and better ROI," says Dagan Sadeh, CEO of Visual Defence. "The real world impact of Visual Defence's integration expertise is making public transit in Mississauga a viable alternative to commuting by car."