PS Technology, NS partnering on personnel

A new train crew management and payroll system under development by PS Technology and Norfolk Southern is expected to “boost operating efficiency, lower costs and increase productivity, supporting goals of NS’s strategic plan to improve corporate performance.”

NS and software company PS Technology, which is providing its CrewPro software platform, have agreed to develop the automated system for phased future deployment throughout the railroad’s network. In addition to crew assignments, CrewPro ultimately will manage payroll, taxi and lodging services, and vacation scheduling for some 11,700 NS transportation employees in T&E (train and engine) service. The software optimizes train crew assignments by factoring in employees’ work schedules and geographical operating credentials, federal regulations and labor contract requirements.

“Incorporating PS Technology’s CrewPro software with our operating and data platforms will save costs and streamline Norfolk Southern’s train crew management and payroll processes,” said NS Vice President Information Technology Fred Ehlers. “When deployed, the system will expand Norfolk Southern’s digital capabilities to enhance interactions with our train crews. In effect, it analyzes data to come up with the best, most efficient match of crew and train.”

“We are pleased to collaborate with our longtime business partner Norfolk Southern to develop CrewPro,” said PS Technology President Seenu Chundru. “The system leverages technology to reduce costs of managing train and engine service crews. Optimization tools enable automated decision-making support and efficiency improvements.”