The National Traffic Information Database combines data from over 300 sources into a common public transport database. “In the past, creation of mobility services used to require a software project; today, the same can be achieved by subscribing to a single interface.”
The database service solved the issues of fragmented public transport data. Its impact is already visible in data quality, usability and service development.
The service includes data on buses, trams, trains, ferries, flights and e-scooters. It also displays change, disruption and delay history for all modes of transport.
“The mobility services dataset used to be fragmented across more than 300 sources. The data included duplicates, multiple names for duplicate operators, and duplicate stops created by different operators in their own way. The information was extensive and unclear, making utilisation challenging,” says Fintraffic Development Manager Jaakko Rintamäki of the situation prior to the National Traffic Information Database.
Uniform situational picture improves service development
The service enables different Finnish transport operators to use similar traffic data. The operators can order necessary data from each other and utilise each others’ situational picture in their own services. The unified route and timetable interface simplifies the updating of data and displaying information to passengers.
“The situational picture is unified and the operators receive data faster from the public transport system. This enables more predictable customer service – the service benefits consumers as well,” Jaakko states.
The service feeds data to e.g. route planners, ticket systems and passenger information systems. Its data is used in Kela transport subsidies, among other solutions.
Excellent data for developers
The service is a modern integration platform that serves especially software developers and data analysis experts. Interface subscriptions are now available via the Fintraffic website.
“In the past, creation of mobility services used to require a software project; today, the same can be achieved by subscribing to a single interface. The National Traffic Information Database accumulates valuable data on the services, unexpected events and problems. This provides valuable data for developing situational pictures, disruption services and planning services,” Jaakko explains.
Cooperation for an international export product
The service is the result of Fintraffic, Weasel Software and Traficom cooperation. Weasel Software owns its IP and the solution can be scaled for international sue. The company is part of the Fintraffic-led export cluster - The next step is to commercialise the solution for foreign transport authorities.
“Cooperation from the project was smooth from the beginning, with all parties having a shared understanding of its objectives. Cooperation with Fintraffic was seamless and solution-centred, enabling focus on essential features. Such cooperation lays the foundation for technically and commercially strong products. The service model is applicable abroad as well,” says Petri Konkka, Project Manager at Weasel Software.
“Cooperation with Weasel Software has been seamless. The project began with carefully designed wireframes and precise UX design, making the multi-stage process clear and manageable. Throughout the collaboration, our team has been flexible and agile in solving problems – we would like to thank everyone for their contribution! We hope and believe in interest towards the solution in other markets as well,” Jaakko says.
The National Traffic Information Database in brief
- All live public transport data via one interface
- The service is based on the open access point for Finnish mobility services (FiNAP) where mobility service operators submit their data.
- GTFS, GBFS, Netex and SIRI standard format
- The service enables smooth planning of connections using data history from development work.
- More information and data.
Are you interested?
Would you like to join us in developing future traffic data? Join the traffic data ecosystem and traffic data group meetings.
Learn more about the export cluster.
Read the Weasel Software article.
