The 2023 MobilityData European Workshop: Highlights from Day One
The first day of the 2023 MobilityData European Workshop left us feeling energized and motivated! We’re thrilled to share the highlights of our first day with you. Set against the backdrop of warm Valencia in Spain, the workshop featured captivating discussions and hands-on activities with many insights and learnings. In this blog post, we’ll share the summaries and key takeaways from the day’s sessions.
Session 1.A: GBFS Governance
This interactive session unfolded in two distinct parts, each designed to clarify all aspects of the GBFS governance process. It began by collectively exploring the amendments we’d like to propose. In the second portion, the focus shifted towards ensuring that the governance process is accessible to everyone. Inclusivity and transparency are at the heart of GBFS, and we’re here to ensure that every voice is heard!
Key takeaways:
- Cities are an untapped catalyst for GBFS adoption, we must get them involved in GBFS Governance”
Session 1.B: Bridging NeTEx and GTFS: Driving Interoperability
In part one of this session, participants heard from a diverse panel of data producers and consumers who had firsthand experience with the integration of NeTEx and GTFS: Brede Damen from Entur and Nick Knowles from ITxPT, hosted by Isabelle de Robert, our Product Director. They shared their insights, challenges, and successes, shedding light on the real-world applications of these standards. This was a perfect precursor to part two, where participants had the opportunity to engage in dynamic small-group discussions, brainstorming solutions to enhance collaboration between NeTEx, SIRI, and GTFS, including their tools development.
Key takeaways:
- A common theme across the board was the need for educational materials, along with increased workshops and collaboration between the NetEx and GTFS communities.
- There is a growing need for multi-language guidebooks for local entities
- Involvement of urban planning students is necessary — GTFS and NetEx need to be included in curriculums.
After a well-deserved tapas-style lunch, we returned to begin the second session of the day.
Session 2: Shaping the Future of Mobility Data Quality
This workshop provided a valuable forum for collaboration and discussion, paving the way for innovative solutions in the realm of high-quality mobility data. A variety of questions were explored, on topics such as establishing a consensus on the definition of data quality. Participants were invited to thoughtfully engage with these topics and dig deeper into unpacking some of the associated challenges.
Key takeaways:
- There is no objective definition of what data quality is and tools must be available and accessible to everyone regardless of language and technical ability
- Government entities should consider implementing policies that encourage and promote the availability of open data
Following a day brimming with insights and engaging discussions, day one concluded with a sense of excitement and anticipation for day two of the workshop. In the evening, participants eagerly made their way to a nearby terrace, where a networking-focused happy hour awaited them. It was a perfect opportunity to unwind, connect with fellow attendees, and continue the lively exchange of ideas that had characterized the day.
We’ll see you tomorrow for the day two recap!
