Rīgas Satiksme, the public transport and parking authority of Latvia's capital, sought a cost-effective way to modernize its parking infrastructure while avoiding the expense of a full system replacement. The outdated paystations led to high operational costs, limited functionality, and growing user dissatisfaction.

BISS introduced a strategic paystation retrofit, transforming 200 paystations, 150 on street + 50 reserve in 6 different zones with cutting-edge software and upgraded internal technology. Based on our calculations, this has helped Rīgas Satiksme to save up to 70% compared to just changing the out-dated paystations altogether. This modernization has not only enhanced efficiency and user experience but also provided a sustainable, future-ready parking solution.

Before the retrofit, Rīgas Satiksme faced several critical issues: ‍

• High maintenance costs for aging paystations that required frequent servicing.
• Lack of transparency, with no centralized system to monitor performance and revenue.
• Limited functionality, restricting payment options and revenue opportunities.
• User dissatisfaction, caused by outdated interfaces.
• An outdated and rigid system, which not only frustrated users with an inconvenient interface but also prevented Rīgas Satiksme from implementing necessary improvements and adapting to evolving demands.

These challenges highlighted the urgent need for a modern, flexible solution that could enhance efficiency, improve user experience, and support future upgrades seamlessly.

Smart retrofitting for maximum efficiency

Instead of an expensive full replacement, BISS implemented an innovative retrofit strategy by upgrading the internal components while keeping the existing housings, screens, and POS devices. This ensured:

• Lower costs compared to full hardware replacement.
• Faster and smoother implementation, reducing disruption to daily operations.
• New revenue opportunities, such as monthly parking permits and post-payment notice.
• Seamless integration with four key internal systems: payment hub, post-payment module, data lake, and operations hub.

With the new solution, Rīgas Satiksme now benefits from an open and flexible system, allowing them to receive regular UI/UX improvements and new features, ensuring a modern and efficient parking experience for both operators and users.

Impact & Results

"BISS provided us with the tools to modernize our parking operations, reduce costs, and enhance user satisfaction – all while staying ahead of future needs." – Rīgas Satiksme

• The implementation of the paystation retrofit brought immediate and measurable improvements to Rīgas Satiksme’s parking operations:

• The custom software was developed in just 4 months, followed by the installation and activation of 150 paystations within 2,5 months.

• The upgraded paystations were successfully connected to four major internal systems, ensuring a more efficient and connected parking ecosystem.

• The modernization enabled over 50,000 transactions per month, with 15% of total revenue now coming from additional products like post-payment notice.

• Thanks to proactive monitoring and real-time alerts, downtime and maintenance costs have been significantly reduced, resulting in a more sustainable financial model.
• Digital transformation with electronic receipts, giving users instant access to transaction records and reducing environmental impact.

The future of smart parking

The successful retrofit of Rīgas Satiksme paystations showcases how cities can modernize their parking infrastructure without overspending. By enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and revenue potential, BISS has delivered a cost-effective, scalable, and future-proof solution.

Looking to upgrade your city’s parking system? Contact BISS today to explore innovative and budget-friendly modernization options!