How Does STAR work?
Smartcards are issued to each pupil using the bus service. Each card can be amended, de-registered or re-issued online i.e. you do not need to have the physical cards to amend their use. The cards are a reference point to information held on a secure server and so do not hold information themselves. They can be issued as a blank card with just a reference number showing.
As each child enters the bus, they swipe their cards onto a reader attached to the bus driver’s console. The cards are RFID passive – this means that although they do not need to make physical contact with the reader – they do need to be passed within a few inches of the device. This prevents accidental and unintentional registration.
The bus driver’s console comes in two screen sizes. The larger screen is designed to be a permanent fixture on the bus. The smaller screen is a Tom Tom-like device designed to be removed and transferred to other vehicles. Each console contains GPS tracking technology.
The console also allows two way communications between the driver and base. This is in the form of both text and voice contact. The driver cannot phone out but using one of the pre-set text messages can request an incoming call.
As each child boards the vehicle, they swipe their smartcard on the reader. The console uses the reference on the card to instantly collect data from the secure server and load the child’s details, including a photograph onto the console. When the child swipes themselves off the bus – their details are taken off the console although a record of when and where they got on and off the vehicle is kept on record and can be accessed by authorised users.
The console constantly updates new information to the STAR website within seconds of receiving it. Parents can see where their child’s allocated bus is in real time and online. They can also follow where and when they boarded and exited the vehicle. Parents can only see details regarding their own child.
STAR provides operational information to the driver. It validates vehicle usage and can help the driver identify individual pupils by scrolling through the photos of pupils on the bus. Once identified, it will offer a pre-configured list of events. The driver simply clicks an event as it relates to the child and this is communicated immediately to base. STAR often automates an existing manual process; rather than depending on the driver to write out a report of events at the end of a shift – STAR allows the driver to tap out key information within seconds within the context of STAR’s input of where the vehicle is and what time the event happened and then electronically send an event report immediately.
STAR will also provide ‘exception’ reporting. If a vehicle journey deviates from client-defined parameters of standard use e.g. regarding punctuality, sudden stops – a report or an immediate alert can be sent to base.
STAR also provides strategic help to local authorities and bus companies. It provides pre-configured reports on bus journeys and pupil travel. STAR is designed to automate layers of data processing and reporting. It offers the same information as raw data or reports to relevant organizations. It confirms vehicle travel and punctuality directly to parents via its website, thus saving time for all concerned.