With the increased rate of vaccinations in the United States and the recent CDC guideline updates, it’s beginning to feel like we’re closer to a “return to normalcy” than ever before. However, as many experts have indicated, the “new normal” won’t look exactly like things did before March 2021. That, of course, applies to the transportation industry as well.
We have spent the last 10 years providing first-rate shuttle services for employees of tech companies in the Bay Area, so naturally, we’re curious about how that service will change post-COVID. Today, we’re going to dive into the situation, see what will remain the same, which changes are ahead, and how Mosaic Global Transportation can fit into that “new normal.”
THE SITUATION
For the last year, we haven’t had to think about our commutes. However, as companies gear up to welcome their employees back to their offices, transportation habits to and from work will be back on the minds of our customers. Many companies are aiming for beginning phase 1 of their office reopening in late summer with the hopes to be back to 100% capacity in the fall.
On the other hand, working remotely for the past year has also opened up new options for employers and employees. Many jobs can be done just as well from home, causing some companies to offer flexible hybrid or fully remote working options for their employees. Due to that realization coupled with the high cost of living in the Bay Area, many Bay Area residents have relocated to the outskirts of The Bay or even to other cities.
The key to all of these realities is flexibility. Each person and company alike will be emerging from the pandemic with a different set of priorities. We at Mosaic Global Transportation are ready to help offer transportation solutions that keep your priorities in mind.
SO WHAT’S NEXT?
The first step in planning for the “new normal” is figuring out some basic information about the people who will be utilizing employee shuttle services. Where do your employees live now? Will they be using public transportation anytime soon? How many days a week are they coming into the office? Are those days set ahead of time or flexible? Would they benefit from integrating a shuttle service into their commute? Once you have the answers to these questions, it’s a lot easier to see where services are needed and where you’re able to cut back.
The next thing to consider is how technology can help streamline the shuttle experience. Things like average ridership that used to be determined by data are no longer as helpful as they used to be. Instead, it would be helpful to turn to technology that provides live updates on seat availability for fixed-route shuttles. And as long as social distancing efforts remain in place, offering the option to reserve a seat in advance could be very helpful to passengers.
Of course, none of this means that our safety precautions are going anywhere. We will continue to follow the direction of the CDC, as well as individual clients’ preferences when it comes to safety measures like cleaning procedures, mask requirements, and other precautionary tactics.
Regardless of what happens in the future, Mosaic Global Transportation is here to keep our passengers safe and to provide unparalleled transportation service. We look forward to serving you soon.
