TEXTING FOR BUS INFO : INTERNET AND SMS INFORMATION SERVICES ARE BOOSTING RIDERSHIP

What began as a real-time, bus passenger information system known as "star trak" serving passengers in Leicester, UK, has evolved to provide "star text," a mobile phone text messaging system that provides riders accurate real-time information on the departure times of star trak buses. The article describes how the system works and suggests that the SMS information disseminated by mobile phone, as well as a star trak website which allows passengers to check bus status via the Internet before leaving home or work, has boosted ridership in the area. The program is expanding to neighboring towns.