Earlier this year, we reported on the success that Frederick County was having after implementing a mobile faring app. Since they started promoting and encouraging usage of the app, things have gotten even better for FC. We thought it would be a great time to do an update to describe their continued success. The strategic approach to increasing ridership taken by Frederick County serves as an example of how all transit agencies should function. They actively seek out new ways to engage with their community by determining the type of technology most in demand. FC invests a great deal of time and resources in doing their due diligence: the research.

Fixed Route Software Solution for Mobile Faring

After a successful launch of their mobile faring app, TransIT ezFare, in January of 2015, Frederick County recently introduced their Summer Freedom Pass to app users. This allows youth, ages 13-22 to ride their Connector and Shuttle routes all summer for $15. Adrienne Moretz, Community Relations Manager says that they are extremely pleased with the rider response. “So far, the app has accounted for nearly 30% of total sales!” As well, Adrienne points to the success of their single trip ticket, saying “it continues to be the most popular option with over 1,000 sold, year-to-date. We have sold over 16,000 total trips since the launch of our app, only 6 months ago. We consider that a great success.” Over time, this will greatly reduce the need for farebox collections, deposits and associated time-consuming tasks.

The Secret to Frederick County’s Success

FC takes a focused approach when gauging rider satisfaction and to build plans for future services. Demographic analysis showed that a large portion of their ridership (18-35s) want more faring options. Analysis shows that over “60% of passengers have access to the Internet,” Adrienne points out. This evidence is based upon the findings of their 2013 Triennial Survey.

Recent studies show smartphone use in the U.S. nearly doubled between 2010 and 2015, from 62 million to over 182 million, and a study published by InMobi, a global advertising company, states 68 percent of consumers surveyed have made purchases on a mobile device. 

This is expected to increase significantly in the next twelve months, as 83 percent of consumers stated they plan to conduct mobile commerce during this time frame. FC wanted to be prepared for this switch in consumer buying habits.