A new train crew management and payroll system currently under development should boost operating efficiency, lower costs and increase productivity, Norfolk Southern says.
Norfolk Southern and software company PS Technology agreed to develop the automated system for phased future deployment throughout Norfolk Southern’s network. The solution aims to support the railroad’s strategic plan to improve corporate performance.
“Incorporating PS Technology’s CrewPro software with our operating and data platforms will save costs and streamline Norfolk Southern’s train crew management and payroll processes,” Fred Ehlers, NS vice president information technology, said in a news release. “When deployed, the system will expand Norfolk Southern’s digital capabilities to enhance interactions with our train crews.”
Ehlers said the software optimizes train crew assignments by factoring in employees’ work schedules and geographical operating credentials, federal regulations, and labor contract requirements. “In effect, the software analyzes data to come up with the best, most efficient match of crew and train,” Ehlers said.
In addition to crew assignments, CrewPro ultimately will manage payroll, taxi and lodging services, and vacation scheduling for some 11,700 Norfolk Southern transportation employees in train and engine service.
