Community Transit Launches Employee Communication App

As a business, one of the challenges Community Transit has faced over the years is how to communicate effectively with our deskless employees, who make up about two-thirds of our workforce. Most of these workers do not have a company email and rely on printed handouts and posters for news and information.

In February, Community Transit launched Interact, a cloud-based communication tool that gives all employees access to Information, News, Tools & Employee Resources at Community Transit. The application is available for mobile devices and desktop computers, making it easily accessible for bus drivers, mechanics, and other employees who do not sit at a desk.

Designed as an informational hub that houses up-to-date news and resources, Interact includes: 

• COVID-19 information 
• As-it-happens news posts 
• An employee directory
• Health and wellness resources 
• Department forms
• Links to internal and external websites for employees

One section of Interact highlights the Employee Voice, where employees ask questions, submit suggestions, express concerns, and have their opinion heard. News posts allow comments to encourage dialogue, and some posts are shareable to personal social media pages. The content is relatable, timely, and presented in a social media-like format that is designed for the mobile user.

One month in, Interact has earned rave reviews from employees across all departments, as well as coverage on page 12 of Passenger Transport, published by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). Even office staff who are now working from home feel more engaged since they can tap into Community Transit updates at their own convenience. At a time when co-workers are more isolated than ever, Community Transit is building a virtual culture that all employees can access.