Environmental Factors Affecting the Jutc

Environmental Factors Affecting the JUTC

Technological Environment

The Jamaica Urban Transport Corporation (JUTC) like any other organization is impacted by environmental factors while they strive to remain competitive within the transportation sector. Technological mechanisms, such as an electronic collection system called the Smart Card system and security cameras on buses, have allowed the company to deliver a satisfactory mode of transportation for thousands of Jamaicans (JUTC, 2003). Since its introduction in 2002, the electronic collection system or SmartCard system has provided the public with an easier way to manage their travel expenditure on buses (Henry, 2012). To replace the out-dated SmartCard, the SmarterCard has been introduced to further improve operation efficiency, reduce waiting time at ticket booths and on buses and provide commuters with a first class ticketing system.

With the consistent increase in the crime rate in the metropolitan areas, safety on public passengers’ transportation is a major factor affecting the JUTC. In an effort to improve passenger safety, buses are equipped with surveillance cameras and although the system is not currently linked to a central security unit, the infrastructure has been established for this to be attained. These cameras have been fundamental in lessening the crime and vandalism issues the company faces. An example of the importance of the surveillance cameras was the April 2013 incident whereby a bus driver was stabbed by students; the footage from the cameras was used by the police to detain and charge the perpetrators (RJR News, 2013).

Social and Cultural Environment

The social and cultural impact of the JUTC can be highlighted through its community involvement. This is illustrated by the high percentage of individuals employed from communities in the vicinity of the bus depots. JUTC, being a government owned entity, is also influenced by political decisions such as changes in government, regulations in operations and wage freezes.

Environmental Factors affecting the Work Environment

Although JUTC receives subventions, the company has been reporting losses as early as 2006. It was ascertained that before government subventions were considered, operationally, JUTC incurred losses of approximately 100 million dollars per month. One major contributory