KSRTC deployed Bangalore based software services company, Radiant Infosystems to develop AWATAR. Online ticket booking facility is a part of the strategy not only by KSRTC but other similar agencies across states to tackle competition from private operators who are known to provide better facilities. Further to the online system, better amenities at the bus depots and along the routes will help passengers enjoy a better ride. Coming back to online reservations, Radiant trained KSRTC's employees in using the AWATAR system. So seamless has been the transformation from the existing system that there was no need for the establishment to recruit additional members. Further, KSRTC plans to open 1000 kiosks in the rural areas of Karnataka for Awatar to be operational.
Without doubt the system should benefit the citizens who wish to travel by KSRTC. Tickets can be booked even one month in advance allowing passengers to plan their travel well in advance. All these changes are a step towards infrastructure development in the state. In future, facility for online cargo booking will also be introduced in addition to advanced online hotel bookings as well. This will surely make a huge difference to the public. The main advantage for passengers however is its user friendliness and the ease to purchase tickets from anywhere to anywhere. However, not all online reservations systems are user friendly. Primarily it is because some online systems do not meet customer expectations in terms of information and service. Reliable technology is also one of the reasons. Radiant Infosystems' AWATAR with its robust IBM based technology claims to be 100 percent accurate in its information. A good online booking system is one that ensures meeting of all travel compliances required by travellers-buyers of tickets and enables better control of the travel management process including safe payment gateways.
While we have been discussing about advantages to passengers, the implementation of the online ticket booking system has inherent benefits for the bus service providers, in this case KSRTC. An increased adoption to online booking facility will enhance the number of passengers thereby increasing the revenues and therefore better profitability. Though the initial investments will be higher, at times in crores, the ROI will be much more than that in due course.
With increasingly unpredictable work hours and travel at short notice, e-ticketing offers an easy and reliable way out. Its 24-hour availability gives it an edge over traditional methods of ticket booking. Things are already in motion, what are you still waiting for.
Martin Wynn
