Rail Operator Automates Crew Rostering to Combat Record Train Cancellations in the UK
The Client
A prominent train operator in the United Kingdom, this company serves hundreds of destinations across England. Known for its extensive network and commitment to providing reliable and efficient rail services, it plays a crucial role in connecting communities and supporting regional economies.
The Obstacles Faced
The company faced significant operational challenges that led to 8% of services. Cancellations and delays also led to regulatory fines and substantial payouts through the ‘Delay Repay’ compensation scheme. The root of the issue lay in the complexity of the rules that determined which crew members could cover which services, based on several factors including timetabled services, crew availability and training, shift patterns, and T&Cs in their employment contracts. This made rostering a very time-consuming manual process, one that an off-the-shelf rostering tool could not cater for. However, convincing internal stakeholders that automation was a feasible solution was a challenge.
The Journey
The company engaged Ensono to explore the feasibility of automating this process. We did so through a Proof of Concept (PoC) that was created in just eight weeks. The team started by analysing data to identify inefficiencies and error sources in the current process. They then developed a new data model and optimization algorithm to automate crew rostering and created a Power BI dashboard to enable depot managers to view and interact with rostering suggestions.The company engaged Ensono to explore the feasibility of automating this process. We did so through a Proof of Concept (PoC) that was created in just eight weeks. The team started by analysing data to identify inefficiencies and error sources in the current process. They then developed a new data model and optimization algorithm to automate crew rostering and created a Power BI dashboard to enable depot managers to view and interact with rostering suggestions.
The Outcomes Achieved
The company has already seen significant improvements due to automation of the crew-rostering process, including:
- Fewer on-the-day changes and cancellations due to increased crew coverage in the PoC region
- Significant time savings for the team and reduction in manual errors
- It is now able to make good progress towards its goal of reducing cancellations by 6%
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