CASE
SKYSS
Skyss builds a modern data platform in Azure with Databricks
PUBLIC SECTOR
Skyss has chosen Azure and Databricks as the foundation for a new, modern data platform designed to streamline the management of public transport contracts while enabling increased use of data and analytics across the organization. The platform replaces a traditional data warehouse solution and provides Skyss with a more scalable, cost-efficient, and future-oriented architecture. Knowit has been responsible for the architecture, implementation, and automation of both the cloud platform and the data platform.
CHALLENGE
A growing need for better insights
Skyss manages a large number of complex contracts with public transport providers, including buses, ferries, and express boats. Monitoring requirements related to punctuality, regularity, quality, compensation, and environmental impact have been time-consuming and largely based on manual processes—both for Skyss and the transport providers.
The existing solution was built on a traditional data warehouse architecture using Microsoft SQL Server, SSIS, SSRS, and SSAS (cubes). Although technically functional, it lacked flexibility and was difficult to develop further. Therefore, Skyss wanted to transition to a cloud-based data platform that better supports the organization’s needs for:
- improved scalability and lower operating costs
- faster development and easier further development
- making data accessible to more user groups
- a stronger foundation for analytics and insights.
SOLUTION
A shift to a modern data platform
Databricks was chosen as the core of a new data platform on Azure. The solution establishes a common foundation for collecting, processing, and making data available from ferries, light rail, express boats, and eventually buses in Vestland County. The platform enables more efficient data collection and processing, while making data accessible to analysts, contract management, and other professional environments within Skyss.
Together with Knowit, Skyss has developed a solution that is currently in pilot with selected ferries and express boats. The work is carried out in an agile manner and in close collaboration with transport providers, aiming to create solutions that are more efficient and cost-effective for all parties. Knowit has also implemented advanced machine learning algorithms to interpolate partially incomplete datasets, ensuring the best possible basis for reporting.
With the new data platform in Azure and Databricks, we now have a completely different foundation for working in a data-driven way at Skyss. The solution gives us better control over contract management, higher quality reporting, and a platform prepared for future needs. The collaboration with Knowit has been crucial in ensuring both the right architecture and efficient execution.
Kjetil Dyrgrav, IT Architect
Skyss.
PLATFORM AND ARCHITECTURE
A robust and future-oriented architecture
Knowit has designed and established the entire Azure platform for Skyss, with a strong focus on automation and control. The infrastructure is set up using infrastructure as code, and both the cloud platform and Databricks environments are fully automated. This provides Skyss with a clear overview of the platform, reduces risk, and makes it easier to continue developing both the Azure and data platforms over time.
As part of the project, Knowit has also contributed with enterprise architecture to ensure that the technical solution supports Skyss’s long-term goals and enables further democratization of data and analytics.
IMPLEMENTATION
Close collaboration
The project has been carried out by Knowit consultants in close collaboration with Skyss and transport providers. The team has worked in an agile and iterative manner, with frequent deliveries and continuous adjustments based on feedback from the pilot and users. Knowit has contributed expertise in data platforms, Azure, Databricks, architecture, integrations, and analytics.
The work has received very positive feedback, including following presentations of the solution and its future vision in various professional forums. In particular, it has been noted that the team achieved significant results in a short time with a small, efficient team.
As part of Skyss’s modernization journey, we have established a scalable cloud platform and a streaming data solution for ferry and express boat reporting. This has laid the foundation for transitioning from a traditional data warehouse to a modern data platform, enabling real-time insights and more automated, future-ready contract management. The work has been technically demanding, involving many stakeholders, and at the same time highly rewarding.
Anders Rørvik, Principal Consultant
Knowit.
RESULT
A solid foundation for the future
The new data platform provides Skyss with a much stronger foundation for data-driven management of public transport contracts and replaces an old and complex data warehouse solution. The platform has been established with minimal investment in resources and time, and forms a solid technological foundation for further development and innovation.
The solution makes it easier for Skyss to:
- reduce manual work and complexity
- monitor contract requirements in a more precise and data-driven way
- leverage analytics and insights across the organization
- explore new opportunities to improve services
- maintain full visibility and control over all data flows and sources.
About Skyss
Skyss is the public transport authority for Vestland County in western Norway. The organization is responsible for planning, procuring, and managing public transport services, including buses, light rail, boats, and ferries.
Operating on behalf of the Vestland County Council, Skyss works to deliver efficient, sustainable, and accessible mobility solutions in line with regional political goals for public transport and infrastructure.
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Idun Storm
Sales