Features
8 Dec 22

What can MaaS management manage?

Demand for changes from old business mobility models, based mainly on leasing cars, to highly flexible systems offering many modes of transport has driven a total overhaul of how individuals travel. But how has that affected the administration and management of mobility?  

The current state of play 

Many MaaS platforms available at the moment, in cities and countries where MaaS is commonplace, can take comprehensive care of the financial side of budgets and payments. While some platforms are pay-as-you-go, others offer monthly subscription options too. Notable examples are Skipr, ALD, XXimo and NS Go. They are successfully providing a convenient, flexible answer to users’ mobility needs. 

Despite that flexibility, these platforms have the capability to take payments and process refunds easily. It means that users can take control of their own mobility budget, thereby alleviating the strain on finance or HR departments. Platforms can even reimburse employees if they do not spend their entire budget - a great incentive to travel in both a time and cost-effective manner. 

Crucially, these systems promote a greener way of travelling, too - by giving individuals relevant CO2 data to make informed transport choices. Managing mobility is no longer just about the cheapest or quickest option, but the most sustainable choice as well - another management aspect MaaS platforms can facilitate.  

Difficulties and obstacles

There are a few stumbling blocks that need to be overcome to see a wider, mass adoption across Europe. 

For starters, these platforms currently struggle in countries such as Germany, where there is no overarching transport company. It makes integrating all travel options, and paying for all those options, tricky on a single platform. MaaS rollouts in that country, amongst others, have been slower - though they are in development. 

Additionally, complexity from varying legislation in different countries is a constant headwind. According to Virginie Pochat of ALD Automotive, while “regulation can sometimes act as an accelerator, it can also be a conservative gatekeeper” even if the technology is already there.  

Introducing MaaS management

If you’re looking to introduce MaaS at your firm, remember to keep these tips in mind: 

  1. Be innovative and offer flexibility all within one app
  2. Educate users and HR departments about how MaaS can help reduce their administration
  3. Prioritise a seamless user experience on your platform
  4. Ensure your app has the capability to offer a thorough mobility budget management solution
  5. Look to the future by measuring and recording CO2 emissions

Our final tip is crucial because, over the long term, MaaS can drive behavioural change. Through the provision of financial and environmental data, actionable insights are created. It means that now, and in the future, efficiencies in both time, money and sustainability can be made. 

To know more about the advantages and the implementation of MaaS within your company, check out our free to download Fleet Europe E-Book - Mobility-as-a-Service

Image: Shutterstock