TfNSW consolidates Google Maps tech providers

Transport for NSW has consolidated the number of technology providers Sydney Trains uses to gather and manage Google Maps data for use by its passengers.

Previously, TfNSW used “multiple individual reseller contracts” to manage and integrate mapping and location-based data from Google Maps Platform.

This data is used by the department’s developers to provide Sydney Trains passengers with travel information on its website and app.

The department has now signed a $3.9 million contract with Perth-headquartered geospatial technology specialist NGIS to integrate TfNSW’s Google Maps data subscription into its front-end services.

“These subscriptions enable Transport developers to use Google’s data to integrate mapping and location-based data into applications, websites, and services across the network for the travelling public’s convenience,” a TfNSW spokesperson told iTnews.

Using multiple providers of this data, however, was a “considerable expense to taxpayers”, the spokesperson said.

“Consolidating these existing contracts is ultimately a more cost-effective way to continue to provide passengers with the best possible information for their journeys,” the spokesperson added.

Front-end information will remain unchanged, iTnews understands.

NGIS has worked with TfNSW previously. In January 2017, it signed a $1.39 million contract over a three-year period to supply this information.

TfNSW has also used Google Maps to monitor NSW roads since December 2014, when it began using the Directions API product to provide information to motorists on variable message signs.