Case Study Eurobus

Project goals

Eurobus approached us with the goal of replacing their outdated ticketing system with a modern, user-friendly solution that would simplify ticket sales and streamline reservation management. The project aimed to create a more efficient system, focusing on:

• Faster purchase process: Reducing the time customers spend purchasing tickets by simplifying the reservation and payment steps.
• API integration: The client sought to connect the new system with other services or partners through a dedicated API, ensuring flexibility for future expansions.
• Responsive design implementation: The new solution needed to be fully responsive, allowing users to easily purchase tickets on mobile devices.

How the Project Was Approached

• Identifying Critical Issues: Significant challenges in the old system were identified, including a lack of clarity and responsiveness, which negatively impacted the overall user experience.
• Formulating Requirements: Close collaboration with the client allowed for the definition of specifications for the new solution, focusing on a design overhaul, faster purchasing processes, and the introduction of API integration.
• Wireframe Design: A conceptual wireframe was developed to outline each step of the user journey, from ticket selection to payment, ensuring a seamless flow.
• Custom Design: The wireframe served as a foundation for creating a custom design tailored to the needs of both Eurobus and its passengers. This design was optimized for all devices, providing an intuitive experience whether on desktop or mobile.
• API Specification: Collaboration with an external partner facilitated the delivery of the API, enabling seamless integration between Eurobus and other systems.
• Development: With the API in place, the new application was built, incorporating all required functionalities for both users and administrators.
• Testing and Optimization: Prior to launching the new system, extensive testing was conducted to eliminate bugs, optimize performance, and fine-tune every detail for the best possible user experience.

Tailor-made design

Now

Then

Additional Innovations

Compared to the previous system, the project was expanded to include several new features:

Availability of transfer connections for passengers.

User registration functionality for a faster checkout process.

Visualization of bus stops on a map using GPS coordinates.

Support for multiple languages to enhance communication with customers.

Real-time updates regarding delays or issues with cashless payment systems directly on the website.

Integration of the reservation system into the main domain.

Validation of user input (e.g., email, phone number) to prevent loss of customer contact information.

Selection of specific seats via a graphic representation of the bus layout.

Modern Technologies for a Better Experience

The previous system, built on outdated technologies such as HTML, CSS, and PHP, required users to experience full page reloads with every action. This inefficiency not only hindered the process of adding passengers but also lacked essential data validation, leading to frustration. Additionally, the absence of a responsive design made booking tickets on mobile devices a cumbersome task.

In contrast, the new application features a split architecture that separates the presentation layer (Frontend) from the business logic (Backend API). Leveraging the modern JavaScript library React, we've created a platform that boasts high interactivity and smooth functionality, ensuring an optimal experience across both desktop and mobile devices. React's widespread adoption also allows for effortless maintenance and the potential to introduce new features as needed.

The API, provided by an external partner, is fully decoupled from the frontend, enabling other systems—such as transport providers or sales platforms—to utilize it as well. This flexibility enhances the scalability and long-term sustainability of the entire solution.

Key Benefits for Eurobus

The implementation of the new system has yielded numerous advantages for Eurobus, dramatically enhancing the user experience and driving sales efficiency:

• Over 1,000 active registered users.
• Optimized mobile usability that simplifies ticket purchasing.
• A new marketing channel that fosters better communication with customers.
• Direct integration of the API and reservation system.
• A 10% year-on-year increase in ticket sales from January to May 2019.
• Seamless communication available in Slovak, English, and Ukrainian.