Graphical Human–Machine Interactive Approach for Integrated Bus Transit Scheduling: Lessons Gained From a Large Bus Company

This paper describes an integrated human–machine interactive bus transit scheduling system developed for the Beijing Public Transport Holdings (Group) Company, Ltd. (BPTG), one of the largest bus companies in the world. The system, which is based on a highly informative deficit function graphical optimization technique, allows schedulers to select computer-generated improvements or interject their own practical considerations. The initial implementation of the new system in two subcompanies of BPTG demonstrates its effectiveness and efficiency with many good features, such as improved integration and coordination of scheduling vehicles and crews, reduced vehicle fleet size, and reduced number of crew duties.