Netzgrafik-Editor (NGE) is an open-source software that enables the creation, modification, analysis and optimization of integrated interval timetables at a macroscopic level of detail, developed by Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS).

Source Code: Netzgrafik-Editor (github) User Manual: Netzgrafik-Editor Demo: Netzgrafik-Editor Free Public Accessible Online Demo - Application

Netzgrafik-Editor tackles a significant business problem by providing a robust solution for long-term timetable planning. A live demonstration will showcase the functionality and the excellent interactive user interface of the Netzgrafik-Editor.

Why a Human-Centric Approach Matters

Netzgrafik-Editor - together with our users we developed a novel approach for interactive timetable planning - user research, user involvement and usability testing were done among others to increase the user experience of the tool.

The result of this human-centered approach is that the Netzgrafik-Editor is not only technically sophisticated but also intuitive and user-friendly. Planners can now create, adjust, and optimize schedules with ease. The tool adapts to their workflows, not the other way around. Users feel heard and taken seriously, which significantly increases their satisfaction and engagement.

This story impressively demonstrates why a human-centered approach is so important. It ensures that technology serves people, not the other way around. The users like to use the Netzgrafik-Editor. This fosters innovation by putting actual needs at the forefront and users like to contribute and help to improve the tool which they have developed together with IT specialists.

Open Source As an Enabler

The Netzgrafik-Editor exemplifies a successful open-source project within the public transportation sectors. By embracing open collaboration, we leverage diverse expertise to address internal needs more effectively. This approach fosters a dynamic environment where building, sharing, and profiting from collective efforts become feasible. Open-source strategies enable us to reconsider traditional architecture principles, transitioning from a buy-versus-build mindset to one where open-source solutions empower us to build, share, and profit together.

Open Source is Not Enough - Attention Is All You Need

Our journey in the open-source realm has taught us valuable lessons, particularly in enhancing the visibility of our projects. Merely opening the source code is insufficient; we must also bridge the gap between software developers and end-users. By making our application freely accessible online, we ensure that it reaches a broader audience, demonstrating that open-source success relies not just on code availability but also on user engagement and accessibility.

Netzgrafik-Editor's Software - Some Insights

We have implemented much of the logic in the frontend (TypeScript) rather than the backend because performance and interactivity are crucial. Low latency and maximum responsiveness are thus ensured in the frontend.

Open Issues

One of our current key challenges is preventing forks in our open-source projects. We aim to benefit from all contributions, ensuring that enhancements and innovations made today and in the future remain integrated within the main project.

Additionally, we seek ways to derive and share novel interaction design patterns that can be freely used, promoting consistency across open-source tools in similar application domains. By doing so, we hope to create a more cohesive and user-friendly ecosystem. For more information, visit digital.sbb.ch and sbb-design-systems.

How Can You Contribute

• Issue, documentation, ... , Source Code (bug fixes, ... , features), pull request.
• Share data, data importers to improve data exchange (converters).
• Roadmap: What next?