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Case Study 2 – Connex Melbourne
2007 Melbourne metropolitan train network timetables
Overview
More trains, more services and additional stations caused a timetable change for the whole of Connex Melbourne’s network.
We were asked again by Connex Melbourne to update the timetables for the entire Melbourne metropolitan rail network.
Our standard operating procedures and production processes, developed for the 2006 timetable stood up to the new data, allowing us to repeat the task with ease.
Projects facts and figures
| Client | Connex Melbourne is one of the world’s biggest operators of public transport infrastucture and operates the Melbourne metropolitan train network. |
|---|---|
| Scope | The network comprises 13 lines with 211 stations. All timetables had to be updated. |
| Total Pieces | 461 pieces: timetable line booklets x 10 kinds totalling 420 pages, timetable line wall charts x 17 kinds, station specific wall charts x 334 kinds, station specific pocket charts x 100 kinds. |
| Task | Update 2006 content on new template supplied by Metlink and populate with new data. |
| Timing | Deadlines were not negotiable. A timeline was drawn up which worked back from delivery date through artwork deadlines to ordering and indenting of stock. |
| Outcome | Job done, on time, on budget. No fuss. |
How we did it
Having already developed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) (for the production of the 2006 timetables), we were able to concentrate on refining our processes in order to deliver a better service.
Case Study 1 – Connex Melbourne
2006 Melbourne metropolitan train network timetables
Overview
During 2006, we were asked by Connex Melbourne to update the timetables for the entire Melbourne metropolitan rail network.
The sheer number of unique items (450) meant lots of room for error.
We had to eliminate the opportunity for error, make proof reading easier, keep within a very strict budget and still be able to deliver the new timetables on a legislated date.
We did it. In spades.
Smoother, faster, more accurate and cheaper. It pays to buy the right expertise. Just ask Connex…
Projects facts and figures
| Client | Connex Melbourne is one of the world’s biggest operators of public transport infrastucture and operates the Melbourne metropolitan train network. |
|---|---|
| Scope | The network comprises 13 lines with 209 stations. All timetables had to be updated. |
| Total Pieces | 450 pieces: timetable line booklets x 8 kinds totalling 384 pages, timetable line wall charts x 12 kinds, station specific wall charts x 331 kinds, station specific pocket charts x 99 kinds. |
| Task | Take a template for the timetable booklet supplied by Metlink* and update wallcharts and pocket chart designs to match, then populate with new data. |
| Timing | Deadlines were not negotiable. A timeline was drawn up which worked back from delivery date through artwork deadlines to ordering and indenting of stock. |
| Outcome | Job done, on time, on budget. No fuss. |
*A new design for the line booklet was supplied by Metlink which sets the communication style for timetables.
How we did it
Building a consistent, measurable process for reliable outcomes
Production processes were automated where possible using libraries, style sheets and macros. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) covering the production process were created for the four print components. The designers were trained in the production process required for each timetable component. Parameters for checking were established and used as background information for constructing a robust production process. Samples of each component were produced from test files supplied by Connex to check if all processes were working accurately before production commenced in earnest.
The checking parameters were then used to proof the outcomes and colour separations prior to handing files over to the printer. Printer proofs were then checked against the same parameters.
Outcome
Corrections to artwork were minimal. The checking processes ensured that the correct text was used and that the various styles were applied accurately. Of the very few changes, most were to content and a handful occurred where styles had to be applied manually.
By building a robust process and having the client, the designers and the printer working closely together, accurate artwork was produced, deadlines were met, relationships not only remained intact but improved and there were no cost over runs due to poor production standards.