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MassTransit_December2016_January2017

RESILIENT COMPONENTS FOR RAIL VEHICLES www.gmt-international.com DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 | MassTransitmag.com | Mass Transit | 21 addition, numerous handoff s are needed when plans are created in order to arrive at a fi nished product. Because these decisions are not made in lock-step, without access to real-time information, plans are oft en poor refl ections of reality. Likewise, on the day of operations, this siloed organization results in delayed response to disruptions, such as mechanical, track, or crew issues. It is essential for the planning teams that work with your new system to have strong support from executives who understand the organization as a whole. Bring the teams together to participate in the design, acceptance and testing of the new solution. An important demonstration of the organization’s commitment to change is the hiring and promoting of key users. Employees should recognize that executives are involved throughout the transition. Not forgetting proper training and change management, which must be factored into any implementation timeline. 4. Work Closely with Labor Unions and Organizations Labor unions and organizations are crucial stakeholders in any major changes aff ecting your crew and planners. Involving leaders from these groups right from the start is an important step to avoid any challenges down the line. It is important to make any changes to your planning processes slowly and to be as transparent as possible. Involve the invested parties early in your implementation process, making sure that they are included when critical functionalities are discussed. You might consider giving your unions and labor organizations the opportunity to review and request changes for components of the solution. Encourage their participation, and in the process educate them on the specifi cs of your new planning technology. Some agencies will work with their chosen vendor to plan on a longer implementation time in order to allow time for union approval. Involving labor leaders early will guard against the shock of sudden change, and will make sure the union won’t feel that its agreement or position is being threatened in any way. Some of these tips may be particularly challenging for your organization and require more time and focus than anticipated. Th e time and eff ort invested in the transition will surely match the benefi t of fl exibility and adaptability achieved as a result of your integrated scheduling solution. P.O. Box 117 · Villa Rica, Georgia 30180 · USA Phone (800) 241-1144 · Fax (770) 459-0957 International Corporation For more information, visit www.MassTransitmag.com/10065132 Daniel G. Crown is business unit director at Quintiq North America.


MassTransit_December2016_January2017
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