While the world’s public transport systems vary in a lot of ways – particularly arrival and departure times – one technological addition is a common sight in global train stations, airports, and subway systems: touch-screen kiosks. Commonly used as ticketing machines or account credit systems, the touch screen units are almost impossible to miss in public transport systems.

London’s Underground system uses kiosks for ticketing, alongside several others throughout the UK. Experts believe that incorporating the system into ticketing has increased efficiency and dependence on public transport significantly, prompting many commuters to leave their cars at home and enjoy relatively crowd-free train stations.

Outside the UK, a large number of public and private transportation companies are embracing touch screens for efficiency and speed. Used to change currencies and purchase tickets at stations, the machines can result in considerable savings in operating costs. Compared to the cost of employing ticketing staff, the amount of capital required to maintain a touch screen kiosk is relatively small.

With large infrastructure projects underway throughout Asia, it appears that touch screen kiosks will grow even more popular. Feedback from system users is largely positive, with most noting the clear decrease in the amount of time required to purchase train and bus tickets.