RID H - Fleet Technology Plan.pdf
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- Solicitation number
- BD-26-1206-MBTA-MBTA-130845
- Issued by
- Massachusetts
About this file
This is a Fleet Technology Plan document prepared by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) Office for Transportation Access, version 1.0, effective June 11, 2026. The plan establishes technological infrastructure and operational procedures for the RIDE paratransit fleet, which comprises approximately 700 vehicles and $50 million in fleet assets managed by dedicated service providers. The Fleet Technology Plan addresses three primary technology systems: (1) Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) software providing centralized fleet asset management, vehicle maintenance tracking, work order management, parts inventory, telematics integration, and digitized pre-trip inspection processes; (2) tablet devices (Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite, 2021 model) equipped with Spare Driver App, Orion Push-to-Talk communication software, and Google Maps, with 713 tablets currently in service across both providers, 363 spare/replacement tablets, and 94 damaged tablets, managed through SureMDM mobile device management software; and (3) a backup communication system utilizing Sonim mobile devices as secondary communication when primary systems fail, with 696 devices installed in vehicles, 20 spare devices for replacement, and 8 broken devices across the fleet.
The document establishes clear roles and responsibilities among three primary entities: Dedicated Service Providers (primarily Transdev/TRAC and other contractors) responsible for daily tablet health maintenance, application management, device lifecycle management, and first-line support for Sonim devices; the MBTA responsible for SureMDM environment oversight, job and profile management, compliance monitoring, and end-of-life device disposal; and Transdev/TRAC responsible for overall backup communication system management, dispatch operations, vendor coordination with 42Gears for SureMDM licensing, and system configuration. SureMDM license management shows 778 licenses currently in use with 121 available from a maximum pool of 899 licenses. Service Providers must maintain a minimum of ten spare Sonim devices per fleet and designate three primary and two alternate administrators for the backup communication system. The plan requires monthly reporting on data usage, job status, battery health, application versions, inventory counts, and device license assignments, with all devices requiring proper disposal through licensed electronics recycling vendors and all backup devices remaining sealed in protective bags with zip tie tamper indicators except during emergencies.
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Fleet Technology June 11, 2026 Version 1.0 Page 1 of 20
The RIDE Fleet Technology Plan
Version 1.0 Page 2 of 20
Table of Contents Document Control
Document Management and Authoring
Document Review and Approval
Version History
Overview
Enterprise Asset Management Software
Hardware Provision and Responsibility
Vehicle Cameras
Vehicle Operator Communication (Push-to-Talk, PTT)
Tablets & MDM Management
Scope and Use of Tablets
Purpose and Objectives
System Overview
Note
Device Specifications
Device Configuration and Controls
Tablet Inventory Summary
License Management Summary
Roles & Responsibilities
Dedicated Service Providers
MBTA (The RIDE)
TRAC (TransDev)
Spare
Backup Communication System
Scope and Use
Purpose and Objectives
Version 1.0 Page 3 of 20
System Overview
Device Inventory Summary
Roles & Responsibilities
Version 1.0 Page 4 of 20
Document Control
Document Management and Authoring DOCUMENT TITLE Fleet Technology Plan RELEASE DATE June 15, 2026
VERSION AND STATUS 1.0
FILENAME OTA-Fleet_Technology_REV1.0
PREPARED FOR OFFICE FOR TRANSPORTATION ACCESS
Document Review and Approval Date Version Name Title Company Initials 6/12/2026 1.0 Christopher Jurek Interim Chief of Paratransit Services MBTA
Version History Version Author Reviewer Comment Status Pub. Date Exp. Date
Version 1.0 Page 5 of 20
Overview The MBTA will be responsible for providing a range of fleet-related technology for the full RIDE fleet, including Revenue Vehicles and Contractor-owned Safety vehicles.
Enterprise Asset Management Software
The MBTA will provide its service providers with a centralized system for fleet asset management, vehicle maintenance tracking and work order management, parts inventory, inspections, and related reporting. The system is expected to support approximately 700 vehicles and roughly $50 million in fleet assets. Key EAM functions include:
1. Centralized asset management, including condition tracking and storage of key vehicle and asset records such as registrations, warranties, and photos.
2. Vehicle maintenance management, including work orders, preventive maintenance inspection tracking, alerts, and parts management.
3. Digitization of pre-trip inspection processes, replacing paper-based procedures with electronic workflows, including lockout functions to help prevent failed vehicles from being placed into service and to alert maintenance staff when issues are identified.
4. Fuel data integration with third-party fuel providers, including on-site fuel systems and MBTA-provided Wex fuel cards, to support vehicle-level fuel usage tracking and improve visibility into potential misuse or irregularities.
5. Telematics integration through a third-party vehicle camera provider (Samsara), introducing fleet telematics capabilities where none currently exist.
6. Consolidation of maintenance activities such as work orders, inspections, and preventive maintenance schedules into a single platform.
7. Improved visibility into provider parts inventory and usage, helping reduce stock-outs and minimize the risk of reduced vehicle availability.
8. Unified reporting, bringing together maintenance and operational data to support reporting, oversight, and KPI tracking for both maintenance providers and MBTA staff.
9. Mobile functionality for field use, including support for work orders, time capture, parts issuance, and photo documentation, with the goal of reducing data entry burden and improving documentation quality.
Version 1.0 Page 6 of 20
Hardware Provision and Responsibility MBTA will directly purchase tablets, cases, cradles, speaker/microphones, amplifiers, cameras, etc. and distribute to providers, along with sufficient spares for training and two years of operations. MBTA shall manage MDM and ensure inactive devices are removed from MDM and Verizon and appropriately sent for recycling and destruction.
Providers are responsible for installing and maintaining the complement of In-Vehicle Technology provided by the MBTA and coordinating with the MBTA to order replacement items as necessary.
Vehicle Cameras All RIDE vehicles are equipped with dual-facing dash cameras with audio recording disabled. These cameras include advanced event triggering, notification, and monitoring capabilities.
Vehicle Operator Communication (Push-to-Talk, PTT) The RIDE uses a Push-to-Talk system provided by Orion for voice communication between Vehicle Operators and dispatchers. The PTT solution runs on an app on the vehicle tablets.
Tablets & MDM Management
Scope and Use of Tablets Tablets are used by Vehicle Operators to perform daily operations, including trip management, communication, and navigation. Vehicle Operators access key applications such as Spare, Orion PTT, and Google Maps to complete their work.
Purpose and Objectives The purpose of the tablets is to provide a secure, reliable, and standardized device that supports Vehicle Operator operations. All tablets are configured consistently to ensure the same experience across all fleets and providers.
Version 1.0 Page 7 of 20
System Overview All tablets are managed using SureMDM, which allows devices to be configured, updated, and monitored remotely. This ensures consistent performance, security, and control across all tablets.
SureMDM is a system used to remotely manage tablets. It allows administrators to install applications, apply settings, restrict device usage, and monitor device status.
• Managed through a central console
• Devices communicate with SureMDM via the SureMDM Agent
• Supports remote updates and troubleshooting
• Provides visibility into device status and usage.
• Device online/offline status
• Application installation and version Transdev/Tracking
• Battery level and connectivity status
• Data usage monitoring
NOTE
42Gears provides the SureMDM system under contract with Transdev/TRAC. Transdev/TRAC owns and manages the contract and is responsible for managing the SureMDM environment, including the console. However, MBTA currently manages the SureMDM console and performs day-to-day operations, including device configuration, application deployment, policy enforcement, and system monitoring.
Device Specifications All tablets across both service providers use the same standard model (Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite, 2021) to ensure consistency and easier support.
Specification Details Model Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite Year 2021
Screen Size 8.7-inch
RAM 3 GB
Storage 32 GB Battery 5100 mAh
Operating System Android
Version 1.0 Page 8 of 20
Connectivity LTE / Wi-Fi Warranty 1 year
DEVICE CONFIGURATION AND CONTROLS
Tablets are configured through SureMDM (42Gears) to ensure secure and controlled use.
• Devices are restricted to approved applications only
• Device settings are controlled to prevent misuse
• Location and connectivity settings are enabled as required for operations
Approved Applications
Vehicle Operator-accessible applications
• Spare Driver App: The primary Vehicle Operator application used to manage trips, view the map, and receive real-time updates.
• Orion PTT: A push-to-talk communication app that allows Vehicle Operators to communicate with dispatch in real time, similar to a two-way radio.
Orion PTT App Spare Driver App
Version 1.0 Page 9 of 20
Background application
• SureMDM Agent: A background app that connects the tablet to SureMDM, allowing remote management, updates, and monitoring.
SureMDM Agent
Applications are installed and managed through SureMDM.
• Approved apps are deployed remotely
• Updates are controlled and scheduled
• Unauthorized applications are restricted
Tablet Inventory Summary This table summarizes the number of available tablets for the entire fleet.
Category Amount Notes
Version 1.0 Page 10 of 20
Tablets in Service
713 702 in vehicles + 9 training + 2 testing Spare / Replacement Tablets
363 Includes refurbished, distributed units, and 25 pre-configured backup tablets Damaged / Broken Tablets
94 —
Total Tablets 1,170 —
License Management Summary Each tablet requires a SureMDM license to be managed in the system. Licenses allow tablets to receive updates, configurations, and monitoring. The maximum number of available licenses is 899, with 778 currently in use (including 774 used by providers and 4 by MBTA).
There are 121 licenses available, which can be used for new or replacement tablets. To ensure efficient use of licenses, it is important to release licenses from devices that are no longer in service so they can be reassigned as needed.
Category Providers MBTA Notes/Total Licenses Used (In- Service Tablets)
774 4 —
Licenses Tied to Out-of-Service Tablets
90 — —
Total Licenses in Use 774 4 777 Available / Unused
Licenses
— — 122
Total Licenses — — 899
Version 1.0 Page 11 of 20
Roles & Responsibilities
DEDICATED SERVICE PROVIDERS
Tablet Health & Maintenance
• Ensure tablets are charging properly and remain operational (Daily).
• Verify tablet cases and batteries are in good condition; no swelling or damage (Monthly).
• Monitor tablet data usage and ensure it does not exceed 2 GB per device (Monthly).
Application & Agent Management
• Ensure all required applications are installed and up to date, including:
o Spare o Orion (PTT App) o Google Maps o Android o Other required MBTA applications
• Ensure the SureMDM Agent app is installed and up to date at least every 60 days.
Monitoring Job and Profile deployment processes, devices, and Troubleshooting SureMDM uses Jobs and Profiles to manage tablets. A Job is a one-time action sent to a device, such as installing an application, pushing an update, or sending a message. For example, a Job can be used to install the Spare app or update Orion PTT on all tablets.
A Profile is a set of settings that stays on the device and is applied continuously to control how it is used. For example, a Profile can restrict the tablet so Vehicle Operators can only access approved applications or configure device settings like Wi-Fi and permissions. In simple terms, a Job performs a specific action once, while a Profile maintains ongoing device settings.
Monitoring
• Track deployment status using SureMDM (Job Status / Reports)
• Confirm updates are progressing as expected
Troubleshooting
• Identify failed or stalled jobs
• Investigate root causes (e.g., offline device, low battery, connectivity issues)
Re-Push Failed Jobs
• Re-initiate failed jobs for affected devices
Version 1.0 Page 12 of 20
• Confirm successful completion
Testing
• Assist during the testing phases for the new deployment.
• Monitor system performance and deployment behavior.
• Provide feedback to MBTA on any issues, observations, or improvements
Device Lifecycle Management
• Enroll new tablets into the SureMDM environment.
• Wipe and properly remove defective, lost, or decommissioned tablets, and free up active licenses from SureMDM.
• Maintain accurate device naming conventions and group assignments.
Monitoring & Validation
• Confirm successful job and profiles updates and deployments.
• Respond to MBTA requests related to device issues, updates, or validations.
• Ensure the recycling bin is reviewed and cleared regularly from SureMDM.
• Monitor available licenses and ensure total usage does not exceed 899 licenses.
• Provide monthly reports, including:
o Data usage o Job status o Battery Health o Apps Version (Spare App, SureMDM Agent App, and Android OS)
• Report any recurring issues or blockers
Inventory Monthly Report (All Tablets and Vehicles):
• Report on the total count of tablets assigned to a vehicle and in service.
• Report on the total number of available replacement tablets
• Report on the total number of damaged/ broken/defective tablets slated for disposal. Note:
tablets must be disposed of through a licensed or otherwise qualified electronics recycling/disposal vendor.
• Report on the total number of licenses assigned to a vehicle in service (active within the last 30 days).
• Report on the total number of licenses assigned to a vehicle not in service (off-line for more than 30 days).
Version 1.0 Page 13 of 20
MBTA (THE RIDE)
SureMDM Environment Oversight
• Maintain an organized and governed SureMDM environment.
• Monitor overall system health and compliance.
Job, Profile & Update Management
• Work with the 42Gears team to create and maintain, push, and configure jobs and profiles.
• Coordinate with DSPs to schedule and push updates.
• Work with DSPs to test upcoming Spare Driver app releases in a controlled test environment before full-scale deployment.
Compliance & Reporting
• Confirm DSPs are keeping tablets in good working order and agents up to date.
• Confirm total usage does not exceed 899 licenses (780 in use + 119 reserve licenses)
End-of-Life Device Disposal MBTA is responsible for the proper disposal of tablets at the end of life, in accordance with applicable policies and regulations.
TRAC (TRANSDEV)
Coordination & Communication
• Own and manage the SureMDM contract, including vendor coordination and licensing.
• Coordinate with MBTA and DSPs on SureMDM-related changes (e.g., job and profile updates)
• Serve as the primary point of contact with the SureMDM vendor (42Gears).
• Support escalation and resolution of issues related to configurations, updates, and deployments
SPARE
Application Configuration & Support
• Ensure Spare application configurations align with MBTA profiles and requirements.
• Validate compatibility with MBTA’s SureMDM and device configurations.
• Communicate with MBTA regarding:
o Current supported app versions o Required updates or configuration changes https://www.42gears.com/products/mobile-device-management/
Version 1.0 Page 14 of 20 o Coordinate with MBTA on all upcoming Agent app updates and changes. Spare should provide release notes before a new version is published to the Google Play Store and be available to discuss and explain the changes with MBTA in advance of release.
Note:
SureMDM by 42Gears is a powerful, user-friendly mobile device management (MDM) solution for Android devices. MDM allows organizations to remotely manage, update, monitor, and secure devices from a central platform.
Backup Communication System
Scope and Use The RIDE uses Sonim devices (mobile phones) installed in each vehicle and used as a backup communication system (a secondary method used when the Vehicle Operator messaging and PTT systems are not working or in the case of an emergency). They are only used when the primary communication system (such as Orion PTT) is unavailable.
PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES
The purpose of the backup communication devices is to ensure Vehicle Operators can always communicate with dispatch, maintaining continuous communication, safety, and operational reliability even during system outages.
SYSTEM OVERVIEW
These devices act as a fail-safe communication tool (a system used when the main system fails), allowing Vehicle Operators to call dispatch directly and continue operations without interruption.
DEVICE INVENTORY SUMMARY
This table shows the number of current Sonim devices. VTS has 345 devices installed in vehicles, with 20 spare devices available for replacement and 8 broken or unusable devices.
WDU has 351 devices installed in vehicles but does not maintain spare devices for replacement.
This means replacement devices may not be immediately available if a device fails.
Version 1.0 Page 15 of 20
Category Amount
Sonim Devices Installed and Active in Vehicles 696
Spare Sonim Devices for Replacement 20
Broken or Unusable Sonim Devices 8
Total devices 724
ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES
TRANSDEV/TRAC Responsibilities TRANSDEV/TRAC is responsible for the overall management and operation of the backup communication system.
System Configuration and Control
• Maintain and manage the system used to remotely manage and control all devices
• Define and enforce device configurations, policies, and restrictions, including:
o Approved calling permissions (allow devices to call only approved numbers, such as dispatch or emergency services) o Device functionality and behavior (control how devices can be used)
• Create and manage:
o Device Groups (organizing devices into categories for easier management) o Naming conventions (standard format used to identify devices)
• Implement system-wide updates and changes (apply updates to all devices at once)
Dispatch Operations
• Provide and maintain 24/7 dispatch coverage (continuous availability to support Vehicle
Operators at all times)
• Serve as the primary point of contact for Vehicle Operator communication via devices
• Ensure all calls are:
o Answered promptly (without delay) o Properly documented (recorded for tracking and reporting) o Escalated as required (passed to the appropriate team when needed)
Governance and Change Management
• Own and manage the backup communication system
• Coordinate all system changes with MBTA and Service Providers
Version 1.0 Page 16 of 20
• Ensure configurations and policies are applied consistently across all fleets (same setup for all providers)
• Communicate updates, outages, or changes in advance where possible
• Ensure all devices remain in proper working condition (fully functional and ready to use)
Support and Escalation
• Provide support for system-level issues (issues affecting multiple devices or system behavior)
• Assist Service Providers with:
o Configuration issues (device setup or settings problems) o System troubleshooting (identifying and fixing system-related issues) o Replacement of lost, damaged, or defective devices
MBTA Responsibilities MBTA provides oversight and ensures compliance with all backup communication requirements.
Policy and Standards
• Identify the required backup communication system
• Establish operational expectations, including:
o Device availability (devices must be present and ready) o Reliability (devices must function properly) o Readiness for deployment (devices must be ready for immediate use)
Asset and Inventory Requirements Require Service Providers to maintain:
• One (1) Sonim device per vehicle
• A minimum of ten (10) spare devices (extra devices available for replacement) per fleet
Service Provider Responsibilities (DSPs) Service Providers shall be responsible for the day-to-day management, maintenance, and operation of backup communication devices within their fleet.
Device Inventory and Asset Management
• Maintain:
o One (1) device per vehicle o At least ten (10) spare devices, fully configured and ready for use
• Maintain an up-to-date inventory including:
o Device name (unique identifier for tracking)
Version 1.0 Page 17 of 20 o Assigned vehicle o Phone number
• Ensure devices include required carrier service (e.g., T-Mobile) (active cellular service for communication)
Device Installation and Configuration
• Install and maintain devices in vehicles
• Register devices in the system used to remotely manage devices
• Assign:
o Device Name per naming convention (Examples: MBTA N/XXXX- or MBTA V/XXXX) o Appropriate Device Group (category used for management)
• Ensure physical labels match system records (device label matches system information)
Designated Sonim Administrators
• Designate:
o Three (3) Primary Administrators o Two (2) Alternate Administrators
• Provide access to the Sonim MDM Cloud Console
• Administrators are responsible for:
o Device setup and registration o Assigning devices to groups o Monitoring device status (checking if devices are online and working)
• Administrators shall operate within their defined scope and shall not modify system-wide configurations
• Service Providers shall notify Transdev/Trac and MBTA of contact information for the administrators.
Daily Operations and Readiness
• Verify during daily vehicle checks:
o Device and device bag present
Version 1.0 Page 18 of 20
• Devices must be kept secured in the assigned device bag (protective pouch stored in the vehicle) and sealed with a zip tie (tamper indicator to show the bag has not been opened).
• The bag must remain sealed at all times and should only be opened in an emergency when the device is needed for communication.
Version 1.0 Page 19 of 20
• If a Vehicle Operator opens the bag and uses the device, the Vehicle Operator must notify the Service Provider (WDU or VTS) that the device was used and the seal was broken.
• The Service Provider must then:
o Inspect the device (confirm it is present and working) o Re-secure the device in the bag o Apply a new zip tie (new seal to indicate the device is secured again)
• Devices must remain powered on and operational at all times.
• Ensure devices remain active and connected
• Prevent extended offline periods (Not more than 30 Days) that may result in SIM deactivation
Maintenance and Replacement
• Repair or replace damaged or non-functioning devices
• Maintain spare devices ready for immediate use
• Follow naming rules:
o Failed device renamed “Replaced XXXX.”
o Replacement device assumes the original device name
• Update physical labels accordingly
Troubleshooting and First-Line Support
• Act as first-line support (first team to handle issues)
• Troubleshoot:
Version 1.0 Page 20 of 20 o Hardware issues (physical device problems) o Connectivity issues (network or signal problems) o Configuration issues (settings or setup problems)
• Perform initial fixes (e.g., device resync via MDM Console)
• Escalate unresolved issues to TRANSDEV/TRAC
Coordination with TRANSDEV/TRAC
• Work with TRANSDEV/TRAC on:
o System updates o Configuration changes o Issue resolution
• Lead resolution of device-level issues with support from TRANSDEV/TRAC
Operational Flow
• Backup communication devices are used only when the primary system fails
• Vehicle Operators contact TRANSDEV/TRAC dispatch
• Dispatch manages communication and response
• Service Providers support device and field issues
| Document Control |
| Document Management and Authoring |
| Document Review and Approval |
| Version History |
| Overview |
| Enterprise Asset Management Software |
| Hardware Provision and Responsibility |
| Vehicle Cameras |
| Vehicle Operator Communication (Push-to-Talk, PTT) |
| Tablets & MDM Management |
| Scope and Use of Tablets |
| Purpose and Objectives |
| System Overview |
| Note |
| Device Specifications |
| Device Configuration and Controls |
| Approved Applications |
| Vehicle Operator-accessible applications |
| Background application |
| Tablet Inventory Summary |
| License Management Summary |
| Roles & Responsibilities |
| Dedicated Service Providers |
| Tablet Health & Maintenance |
| Application & Agent Management |
| Monitoring Job and Profile deployment processes, devices, and Troubleshooting |
| Monitoring |
| Troubleshooting |
| Re-Push Failed Jobs |
| Testing |
| Device Lifecycle Management |
| Monitoring & Validation |
| Inventory Monthly Report (All Tablets and Vehicles): |
| MBTA (The RIDE) |
| SureMDM Environment Oversight |
| Job, Profile & Update Management |
| Compliance & Reporting |
| End-of-Life Device Disposal |
| Coordination & Communication |
| Spare |
| Application Configuration & Support |
| Note: |
| Backup Communication System |
| Scope and Use |
| Purpose and Objectives |
| System Overview |
| Device Inventory Summary |
| Roles & Responsibilities |
| TRANSDEV/TRAC Responsibilities |
| System Configuration and Control |
| Dispatch Operations |
| Governance and Change Management |
| Support and Escalation |
| MBTA Responsibilities |
| Policy and Standards |
| Asset and Inventory Requirements |
| Service Provider Responsibilities (DSPs) |
| Device Inventory and Asset Management |
| Device Installation and Configuration |
| Designated Sonim Administrators |
| Daily Operations and Readiness |
| Maintenance and Replacement |
| Troubleshooting and First-Line Support |
| Coordination with TRANSDEV/TRAC |
| Operational Flow |
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