Artisan Corporation Launches Easy-to-Use Real-Time Transit Alerts Tool

Introduction to Kantan Alert

Artisan Corporation, based in Chofu City, Tokyo, has officially released "Kantan Alert", a new service that enables easy dissemination of real-time transit information in the Service Alert format compatible with GTFS Realtime (GTFS-RT). This innovative communication tool was collaboratively developed with MoDip, a company dedicated to promoting the use of GTFS data, led by Kenji Moroboshi. Designed for practical application in the field, Kantan Alert combines ease of use with versatility.

Importance of Real-Time Information Sharing

The necessity to provide real-time transit data has surged, particularly with the recent increase in sudden weather changes and heightened inbound tourism demand. While it is crucial to promptly deliver operational updates for buses, trains, and maritime services, the process has often been hindered by technical barriers and operational burdens. Hence, Kantan Alert was born as an accessible tool that simplifies this information sharing, catering to all users.

Background of Development

Traditionally, in order to reflect transit service information on Google Maps, organizations need to generate data files compliant with GTFS-RT specifications and set up an endpoint URL for real-time publication. Furthermore, establishing a framework for regular updates and management from external sources imposes a high operational hurdle.

An alternative, the Manual Service Alerts feature in Google Maps, allows users to input data directly via a Partner Dashboard interface. However, it requires users to navigate an English interface and limits daily postings to manual entries without integrating with other channels like official LINE accounts or web pages, rendering it inefficient for field operations.

To address these inefficiencies, Artisan and MoDip collaborated to develop a more straightforward and flexible distribution and alert mechanism—Kantan Alert. This tool simplifies the creation of GTFS-RT compliant Service Alert data with a Japanese user interface, enabling the simultaneous distribution of information via multiple channels like LINE official accounts or HTML embedding with minimal effort.

Features of Kantan Alert

User-Friendly Operation

- Intuitive Japanese UI: Designed for quick usability by field personnel.

Multi-Channel Distribution

- Simultaneous Notices: Supports GTFS-RT (Service Alert), LINE official account, and HTML for mass distribution.

Regular Delivery Support

- Scheduled Posting Functionality: Offers automated or recurring delivery options through pre-registration.

No Need for GPS

- No Real-Time Location Required: Usable even without onboard bus location systems.

Pricing Model

Kantan Alert offers a competitive pricing structure:

- Initial Setup Fee: Free for 1 month
- 6 Months: ¥33,000 (tax included)
- 1 Year: ¥33,000
- 2 Years: ¥33,000
- 5 Years: ¥33,000

(Prices may change)

Intended Use Cases

Kantan Alert can be utilized for:

- Announcing temporary route changes due to construction or events.
- Proactively notifying users about planned service interruptions during disasters or bad weather.
- Informing customers about unexpected accidents or delays.

About MoDip

Kenji Moroboshi leads MoDip, which actively promotes the use of GTFS data for public transportation throughout Japan, collaborating with government bodies, transit operators, and development companies for implementation support. They specialize in providing transit information leveraging GTFS data and aim to expand their outreach across the nation.

Future Developments

Artisan aims to promote the adoption of Kantan Alert across local governments and transit operators, contributing to a sustainable public transportation information system through GTFS-RT. Additionally, the service plans to extend collaboration features with other channels such as social media (X, formerly known as Twitter) and MaaS applications based on user feedback. The broader vision is to establish a comprehensive platform that centralizes and streamlines information dissemination.

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