Bus Driver Talk Current practise and future communication support

Bus-driver’s task is to manoeuvre their bus through the chaotic reality on the roads, in a predictable way (following the timetables). In order to do so the bus-driver is equipped with various tools including a communication system. It has become evident that this communication system is inadequate to support the drivers' efforts to create efficient traffic flow. Facing a new generation of communication technology, one must observe in detail the daily practices of the drivers and identify where there is a demand for technical support. These are the objectives in the Bus Talk Informatics project. In this paper, we focus current practises where communication between bus-drivers are of importance, and evaluate how present technologies support the interaction. We will also outline a prototype description of a new communication aid especially designed for local mobile settings such as public transportation.