When I began my career in public transportation software, I had the privilege of working with experts who designed sophisticated networks – like those in Paris, London and Montreal – using tools as simple as a pencil and graph paper. In 25 years, I have witnessed a radical transformation in this profession: digitalization has revolutionized practices, empowering professionals with software and artificial intelligence tools that lead the way as our industry shifts and evolves. 

Human beings must remain at the heart of what we do

Designing and deploying these solutions, then accompanying their adoption worldwide, has taught me one key lesson: that human beings must remain at the heart of what we do, and technology, above all, must drive forward the expertise of the people who work in our industry. 

Training and expertise are essential for effectively leveraging software and artificial intelligence tools as performance drivers. In my experience, I’ve seen how important it can be to create skills development centers, led by super-users, to complementthe acquisition of advanced software. 

Ongoing training enables users to fully harness the power of the tools, but also to realize their potential. It helps them understand how to get the most out of technology. With time, these users become experts with mastery over their tools, optimizing their use and continuously adapting to the needs of their organization. This ensures a lasting competitive advantage. 

Technology is an amplifier of human expertise

Ultimately, technology is an amplifier of human expertise, training and ingenuity. Its real strength lies in its ability to help human beings integrate know-how and manage increasingly sophisticated networks even more effectively, with autonomy and mastery. 

About Houari Cheikhi 

Houari Cheikhi is a Director of Business Development and Innovation at GIRO, a leading provider of software solutions for public transport, serving over 300 clients worldwide. He spearheads GIRO’s international business development efforts focused on electric bus fleets. 

With over 25 years of experience in public transport software solutions, Houari has spent 15 years overseeing business applications at the group level for a major international public transport operator. He has successfully led numerous large-scale international projects, driving performance, innovation, and digital transformation in the sector. 

Houari holds an Executive MBA from ESSEC Business School in France and Mannheim Business School in Germany, along with certifications in PMP and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt