DB Regio Bus Baden-Württemberg introduces INIT's system for automated incident management and passenger information

Integration of RESPONSEassist into statewide incident management

All five companies of DB Regio Bus Baden-Württemberg rely on RESPONSEassist. See here is a vehicle from FMO Friedrich Müller Omnibusunternehmen at Durlacher Tor in Karlsruhe. (© INIT)

Karlsruhe / Germany – September 22, 2025

DB Regio Bus Baden-Württemberg will be using INIT's integrated system for semi-automated dispatching and passenger information in all five of its regional companies. The RESPONSEassist solution combines the essential tasks of the control center in a single application: It enables dispatchers to manage disruptions more efficiently and to distribute precise passenger information in a largely automated manner using predefined templates.

The system will be connected to an event management system, as well as a state-wide passenger information system. This way, the information will reach not only DB Regio customers, but all passengers in the German state of Baden-Württemberg.

Basis: Standardized on-board computers, standardized ITCS

RESPONSEassist is part of a comprehensive digitalization concept: In order to offer optimal service and provide customers with the best possible information, DB Regio Bus Baden-Württemberg has launched a comprehensive digitalization project that includes IT-supported disruption management – with a clear focus on greater passenger satisfaction and more efficient dispatching. In the first step, all on-board computer systems in all five regional companies will be upgraded to INIT's latest technology (on-board computers, Intermodal Transport Control System). The next step is the introduction of the integrated incident management and information system.

Connection to the state-wide event management system

RESPONSEassist is directly integrated into the ITCS and contains many text templates. By means of electronic forms, the system actively supports control centers in processing disruptions and providing information about operational changes – both internally and externally via various information media for passengers. Passenger information is generated automatically by inserting meta and real-time information via the ITCS. Dispatchers only need to add context-specific information and the information is distributed to displays, apps, and other digital services at the touch of a button. This means that passengers will receive information much earlier and in a more targeted manner, e.g., learn about cancellations, delays, replacement connections, or detours.

A key element of the new system is its connection to the state-wide event management system (EMS), which is operated jointly with the state of Baden-Württemberg and the regional transport associations. It provides comprehensive information throughout the state. The EMS ensures that relevant operational disruptions affecting the connected transport companies are communicated across the association and throughout the state. This close integration ensures coordinated passenger information in real time – regardless of which organization handles operations.

Networked, reliable passenger information

RESPONSEassist allows information to be recorded centrally and made available automatically across all connected media. At the same time, it reduces the workload for control center staff, as many communication steps are now supported digitally or triggered automatically. "With the technical modernization and future connection to the EMS, we will not only be able to resolve disturbances quickly. Rather, we are creating the basis for networked, comprehensible, and reliable customer information – not only for our passengers, but for the entire local transport system in Baden-Württemberg," explains Dr. Katherina Grafl, Senior Expert for Innovative Mobility at DB Regio Bus Baden-Württemberg.

DB Regio Bus Baden-Württemberg is thus sending a strong signal for modern, customer-oriented mobility – with a clear focus on digital passenger information, reliable communication, and interregional cooperation. INIT Managing Director Klaus Janke emphasizes: "This high level of customer orientation will not only make public transport in Baden-Württemberg more efficient, but also more transparent and attractive for all passengers. We are looking forward to taking dispatching and passenger information to a new level in our home state with RESPONSEassist." 

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Andrea Mohr-Braun

Head of Department Corporate Marketing
INIT worldwide
Phone: +49 721 6100 113
Fax: +49 721 6100 399