BUS TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM: CORE TRANSACTION 1(INTEGRATED OPERATIONAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR PROVINCIAL BUSES THROUGH ROUTE SCHEDULING, FLEET MONITORING, AND REAL-TIME-DATA INTEGRATION)

Abstract

The escalating demand for efficient and dependable public transportation in provincial areas has emphasized the necessity for a modernized, streamlined approach to bus operation management. To meet these challenges, we propose an Integrated Operational Management System specifically engineered for provincial bus services. This system aims to optimize route scheduling, bolster fleet monitoring capabilities, and facilitate seamless real-time data integration, thereby enhancing overall operational efficiency and service reliability. The system was engineered using a modular and scalable web-based architecture, leveraging PHP (Laravel), MySQL, and JavaScript alongside Tailwind CSS to provide a responsive and user-friendly interface. At its core, a centralized database efficiently manages critical data, including routes, buses, drivers, and trip schedules. Real-time bus tracking is achieved through GPS integration with mobile devices, delivering continuous location updates. The route scheduling module enables administrators to seamlessly create, update, and assign routes with precise time slots and bus allocations. Additionally, fleet monitoring is supported by a dynamic live dashboard that presents real-time statuses, active, idle, or off-duty, of all buses, with automatic data synchronization occurring every few seconds to ensure timely and accurate operational insights. The deployment of the system yielded significant improvements in operational efficiency across all facets of bus management. The route scheduling module optimized daily dispatch operations by eliminating route overlaps and maximizing fleet utilization. Real-time data integration empowered decision-makers with critical insights, including average trip durations, bus utilization metrics, and comprehensive driver performance evaluations. Additionally, the fleet monitoring feature provided instant visibility into delays and service disruptions, enabling rapid administrative responses that minimized downtime and enhanced overall service reliability. The system clearly demonstrates that the seamless integration of route scheduling, fleet monitoring, and real-time data analytics not only enhances operational efficiency but also lays a solid groundwork for advanced future capabilities such as predictive maintenance and passenger experience tracking. As a scalable and adaptable platform, this solution equips provincial transport companies with the tools necessary to modernize their operations, optimize service delivery, and stay competitive in an evolving transportation landscape.