Subsections
• The people

Software products

The consultancy and development work of mathematicians can lead to quite generic products. In our case, some examples include ...

IPTIS -- Integrated Public Transport System

a system to assist the general public in planning journeys on public transport. It has a flexible query mechanism for determining the fastest, cheapest or minimum walking-distance journeys.

• IPTIS also computes complex journeys involving more than one trip, using one or more different public transport providers.
• The system includes on-line maps so the operator can give precise directions.
• It currently handles over 2000 calls per day in Brisbane.
• It has recently been installed in Perth.

TiARA -- Timetabling and Room Allocation Software System

a software system for class time-tabling and casual room-bookings in tertiary institutions.

• TiARA is a Microsoft$_{\hbox{\small{\tiny$\scriptscriptstyle\circledR$}}}$ `Windows$^{\scriptscriptstyleT\!M}$' application with efficient, user-friendly interface.
• TiARA is a client/server system; it can integrate time-tabling on multiple campuses.

  

• It was developed in conjunction with The University of Queensland.

BUSCH -- Bus and Crew Scheduling System

a core system for operational and planning uses for public-transport providers.

• It provides data management of timetables, driver workings (with run-prints or diagrams), driver regulations.
• It can develop optimised crew schedules using timetables, depot and vehicle restrictions and crew regulations.
• BUSCH provides data to IPTIS and to other OPCOM transport software.
• It is used in Brisbane by Queensland Transport.

The people

The company has provided opportunities for a group of mathematicians, computer scientists and engineers to apply their knowledge and skills in a productive manner, to real problems in industry. If we divide our twelve technical people according to higher degree, honours degree and pass degree, we find a fairly flat profile. There is a role for all three levels. It is also true that, although we have a core of computer scientists in our team, the mathematicians are quick to learn and become very good software developers also. The important thing for this kind of work is the need for clever people, the best available in each category. It is certainly my opinion that there are insufficient of such people available.

In order to be effective, mathematical ability needs to be supplemented with a range of other skills in areas such as business, communications (both written and oral), and project management. Students of mathematics who intend to go into industry should be exposed to some of these areas during their studies.