Darwin feeds live train information to station screens and online channels, including the National Rail app, providing real-time arrival and departure predictions, platform numbers, delay estimates, schedule changes and cancellations. Darwin takes feeds directly from every train operator's customer information system, combining it with train location data provided by the infrastructure manager, Network Rail (NR). This ensures that passengers see the same live information whether they choose to look for it on station screens, on the internet, via an app, or by asking station staff.
"Our customers tell us that they want better information, especially when services are disrupted, and this project is an important step towards addressing that need," says Ms Jacqueline Starr, managing director for customer experience with Britain's Rail Delivery Group. "Many rail passengers will be familiar with the panic that sets in when they are waiting for a train and the screen on the station platform tells them one thing but the app on their phone says another. Being able to trust the origin of information on the railway is crucial for customers so that they can make the best decisions about their journeys."
All of Britain's train operating companies and NR have been involved in Darwin, which was funded by the national stations improvement programme to provide real-time information, clearer way-finding, better accessibility, and improved waiting areas for passengers.
