New NY DOT Mobile App Aids Travelers

2011 so far has been marked by an increasing number of mainstream companies getting involved in the development of mobile applications, including airlines and car companies. The latest app comes from a new player in the mobile world, the New York Department of Transportation.

Governor Andrew Cuomo this week announced the NY511 app, a supplement to the newly upgraded  DOT’s 511 system, which provides real-time information via the web about road closings, weather advisories, accidents, and public transportation delays. The free mobile app is available for iPhone, Android, and Blackberry devices.

While there isn’t anything that innovative about NY511 as an app, it represents another relevant tool for travelers to New York and could mark a new trend in government agencies embracing mobile technology. These organizations have been slow on the uptake, as they don’t always feature websites that are easy to navigate or that offer a pleasant user experience. But mobile apps typically create a more visually pleasing experience than websites.

NY DOT has invested in web 2.0 and technology, and ahead of most other government agencies. Not only does it have a well-designed website and the new NY511 app, it also is up on social media trends and created YouTube, Facebook, Flickr, and Twitter pages. What’s unique about NY DOT’s use of Twitter, is it set up individual pages for every  region in the state. There are even Twitter pages for different subway lines in New York City to report delays, construction, and other real-time information.

Photo from Joe Shlabotnik on Flickr.