Kainos takes the wheel on England’s bus data revamp
The IT provider will work with the Department for Transport to drive the government’s ambitions
The Department for Transport (DfT) has handed Kainos the keys to manage its Bus Open Data Service (BODS) platform to meet the needs of bus operators and data users while optimising service costs.
The digital platform, built on AWS, enables the publication of England’s bus timetables, fares, tickets, and real-time locations.
Kainos will sit in the driver’s seat of BODS to ease the provision and maintenance of data for operators.
The Belfast-based IT services provider will also help steer policy ambitions by developing analytical tools to help local authorities, transport operators, and other government bodies use up-to-date data to plan and monitor services.
“There are so many opportunities to enhance BODS - to improve the passenger experience, reduce cost and support operators and policymakers,” said Andy Kemp, head of public sector at Kainos.
“We will ensure we’re optimising it for everyone who needs access to bus data - while ensuring DfT has a secure, resilient, cost-optimised system that’s fit for the future.”
Simon Royal, BODS service owner at DfT, added: “BODS is about creating a level playing field for operators and data consumers, making it easier for people to use buses across the country.
“Kainos will help to improve the service, allowing bus operators in England to better provide required data to BODS more effectively.
“This will support crucial policy initiatives that are making public transport more accessible and easier to use.”
This announcement comes less than a week after Kainos shared its FY24 results, reporting revenue of £196.1m, a seven per cent year-on-year rise, partly driven by tech demand from the UK Government.
“The UK Government sees technology as central to its mission to improve the quality and efficiency of public services, while making them easier for citizens to access,” highlighted Brendan Mooney, CEO of Kainos.
“The significant programme wins in the period are testament to our capabilities in the public and healthcare sectors.”
Kainos is already a long-time partner to the DfT.
The organisation has supported the DfT’s Street Manager service for roadworks since 2018.
In May 2025, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), in partnership with Kainos, launched the UK Government’s first British Sign Language (BSL) online translation service for candidates booking their theory test online.
In September, the IT service provider secured a four-year contract worth up to £73m to modernise DVSA’s driver services and make it easier for learners to book and schedule driving tests.