QRT

Quasi real-time data (used in a window of 3-60 minutes after its collection) is a developing field, sometimes undistinguished from real-time data. In the project ‘Use of quasi real-time data in transport infrastructure’, part of the ‘DAFNI-Data Infrastructure for National Infrastructure programme’, a research team explored how this type of data is currently utilised and the challenges surrounding its use.

This project aims to better understand the operational environment, challenges and best practices associated with quasi-real-time data, and to identify barriers to the acquisition and effective use of this type of data for land transport modes such as cars, lorries and public transport. The impacts are broad, ranging from quickly informing consumers about bus and tram waiting times, to enabling more dynamic traffic management.

Led by Dr Giuliano Punzo, Lecturer at the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering & Director of the Sheffield Urban Flows Observatory at the University of Sheffield, this project seeks to advance research into near real-time transport data, supporting smarter infrastructure systems and enabling real-time responses to events such as accidents, delays and infrastructure failures.