In the dynamic realm of corporate mobility, significant shifts are underway. Companies are adapting to the evolving landscape of teleworking and emphasizing sustainability objectives, realigning policies to meet these changing demands. The rise of this new work approach has led to companies revamping their policies to offer greater flexibility in terms of when employees are expected to be present at work. Today, this emphasis on flexibility extends beyond working hours to encompass how employees commute to work.
For companies that traditionally provided company cars, there's a noticeable shift towards alternatives like the Belgian Federal Mobility Budget. In response, Mobility as a Service (MaaS) solutions are gaining prominence. Many of the MaaS solutions are tailored to facilitate the integration of the federal mobility budget. However, more and more companies are exploring MaaS solutions for regular commuting among employees who do not possess company vehicles. As B2B MaaS solutions align with green objectives and capitalize on other prevailing social trends, such as digitalization and flexible teleworking schedules, they can provide a viable solution in this context as well.
MaaS for daily commute?
The versatility of MaaS offers a simplified means to provide flexibility to employees. Employers considering the implementation of MaaS solutions for their employees' daily commutes should weigh the following crucial considerations:
Geographical location: While MaaS solutions offer a diverse range of mobility options, their effectiveness hinges on the availability of providers within a particular area. It’s essential to take your business’s geographical reality into account when considering a MaaS implementation. Companies situated in densely populated areas stand to benefit more from MaaS services than those in remote areas, as more mobility providers will be available in these areas (rental bikes, steps or cars, trams, subways, trains, buses, shuttles, etc.).
Company size and resources: The size of the company plays a role in the feasibility of a MaaS implementation. Larger organizations are often more equipped with the necessary resources and dedicated mobility management teams to oversee, control, and manage the process. Smaller entities may need to allocate resources strategically as MaaS integration involves financial and time commitments.
Organizational preparedness: A comprehensive assessment of the company's technological readiness is essential for embracing MaaS. Is the digital infrastructure capable of seamlessly introducing and managing a MaaS platform? Evaluating employees' digital proficiency is also crucial since they'll be responsible for managing their mobility registrations within the MaaS framework.
Selecting the right MaaS Platform
Once the feasibility and affordability of a MaaS solution are established, the selection of a suitable MaaS platform becomes paramount. Each platform caters to specific mobility dimensions. While some are tailored for mobility budget implementation, others cater to more general commuting needs. Factors that demand consideration when selecting a MaaS provider include:
Integration with existing systems: MaaS platforms bring extensive flexibility to employees. Ensuring that this flexibility aligns smoothly with user-friendly processes for both employees and administrators is paramount. Effortless integration with existing systems, such as payroll and employee databases, can optimize administrative procedures. Verify whether the selected MaaS solution is compatible with your existing infrastructure.
Policy alignment and adaptability: Integrating MaaS with your existing commuting policy demands a meticulous evaluation. Determine which policy elements can remain unchanged and pinpoint areas where flexibility can be introduced to cater to varying commuting preferences. As you implement a MaaS solution, be prepared to modify your mobility policy accordingly. Conversely, seek a MaaS platform that can seamlessly accommodate and support your policies. (An example: How does the system calculate mileage allowances? Is it a fixed number of kilometers? Does the system determine distance based on the fastest or shortest route? (Can users create their own route or opt for the safest route?)
Pricing: When selecting a MaaS platform, pricing is a crucial aspect to consider. Analyze the cost structure and transparency, ensuring it aligns with your budget and expectations. Evaluate the value the platform offers in relation to its cost, considering features, support, and overall benefits. Inquire about customization fees and potential add-ons, while also assessing the scalability of pricing as your company grows. Carefully review contract terms for hidden fees and penalties, ensuring clarity on renewal and termination terms.
Reporting possibilities: Selecting a MaaS platform with robust reporting capabilities is essential because reporting provides valuable insights into the utilization of mobility services. It enables companies to monitor employee commuting behavior, track expenses, and assess the effectiveness of their mobility policies. Detailed reporting helps identify trends, areas for improvement, and cost-saving opportunities. This data-driven approach facilitates informed decision-making, ensures compliance with sustainability goals, and enhances overall mobility management strategies. Ultimately, reporting empowers companies to optimize their mobility offerings, improve the user experience, and achieve their organizational objectives.
Lastly, introducing a MaaS solution necessitates clear and effective communication with employees. Offering comprehensive training ensures that employees comprehend the platform's usage and benefits.
In conclusion, the adoption of MaaS solutions for daily commuting offers an innovative approach that aligns with modern work dynamics and environmental objectives. By considering these factors and conducting a thorough analysis, businesses can ensure the successful integration of MaaS solutions, enhancing both employee mobility and sustainable practices.
