KeTech: Redefining Passenger Information Systems

Why It Matters

The system boosts operational efficiency and passenger experience during disruptions while delivering significant cost and carbon reductions, supporting the rail industry’s decarbonisation and digital integration goals.

Key Takeaways

• KeTech's PIS delivers real‑time journey data to on‑board and station screens.
• System reuses existing hardware, cutting retrofit costs up to 80% and carbon.
• Modular Universal Information System integrates PIS, CIS, RCM for a data source.
• Remote updates eliminate site visits, reducing maintenance emissions and labor.
• Designed for Great British Railways, supporting UK‑built supply chain resilience.

Pulse Analysis

KeTech’s passenger information system (PIS) transforms how rail operators communicate with travellers by turning live data streams into instant, contextual displays on trains and at stations. The platform ingests timetable, signalling and sensor feeds, then updates onboard screens and central control panels within seconds, giving passengers a precise view of their location and expected arrival. During disruptions—delays, cancellations or rerouted services—the system’s dynamic intelligence becomes critical, allowing operators to push revised messages without manual re‑programming. By consolidating information in a single source of truth, the PIS also streamlines crew decision‑making and reduces operational silos that slow response times.

Beyond passenger experience, KeTech builds sustainability into its core. The hardware architecture is designed for reuse; existing displays, amplifiers and speakers can be repurposed, delivering up to an 80 % reduction in retrofit spend and markedly lowering embodied carbon. Remote software updates replace costly on‑site visits, cutting both labour hours and travel emissions. A simulation tool lets operators model changes before deployment, further minimising waste. These practices align with the rail sector’s decarbonisation targets and show how digital upgrades can deliver financial savings while supporting whole‑life carbon goals.

The system’s modular Universal Information System (UIS) positions it as a future‑ready solution for Great British Railways’ integrated network. By separating functional blocks—PIS, Customer Information System, Condition Monitoring and Asset Management—operators can upgrade individual components without overhauling the entire stack, a strategy the RSSB estimates can shave up to 20 % off long‑term integration costs. This flexibility safeguards against rapid technology obsolescence and encourages a domestic supply chain, reinforcing UK‑based innovation. As operators modernise fleets and expand services, KeTech’s adaptable, UK‑engineered platform offers a scalable foundation for a greener, more resilient railway.